Running a 36km trail run straight after 70.3 Durban was probably not the best idea, and my legs would agree. But like a true trail runner, you wipe the dust off and find your next race. You take your dark moments and focus on improving your skills so that you don't end there again. In my case it was finding my foot placement on the unforgiving rocky terrain at the top of the Magaliesberg escarpment. So the best race to enter and overcome these weaknesses and train my feet, will be none other than this weekend's Scrub Hare Run.
The race will take place on Sunday 23 August 2015 and entries are still open. As we've covered the previous races in this series, I know more or less what terrain to expect from Nina. According to her, this is the easiest run in the series and offers flat route profiles to recover from current hard training and runs. The 20km will traditionally offer a few adventurous sections. Of course you also get an extra 2.3km for free (now a 22.3km trail run). Improving on their previous races, the team from My Road Less Traveled will have clearly marked routes with blue ribbons, green arrow boards and marshals. The route will offer loads of game track running, river crossings, rocky roads, single track, tunnels, old railways and jeep track. An absolute buffet of surfaces to run on and perfect for anyone wanting to improve their trail skills.
A detailed route description for the 20km have been posted on their website and reads: "Tunnel first time , log river crossing, Leopards Rock, Abandoned house, Windmill, Water hole, River crossing 2, 3 and 4, old dairy farm, staff quarters, tunnel 2, top of the farm on lodge side, railway crossing and finish!" The route will also pass by a water point but runners would need to be self sufficient and carry water with them.
The 8km also received a bonus 1.5km and would give you a fast 9.5km trail in total. This route will be marked with pink ribbons and pink arrows. Keeping with the same format as the 20km, this route will also offer log bridges, tunnels, 4 river crossings, veld running and a jeep track to take you home. Spots to remember: Tunnel, Old dairy farm, river crossing 1 over log bridge, river crossing 2 and 3, tunnel second time, tower and finish.
Race organizers recommend you carry the following:
- 1 litre of water
- sun screen/protection
- space blanket
- cell phone with race organizers contact number
- insect repellent
- snacks/race nutrition – you will be out on route for a while
- IMPORTANT: Advisable to wear clothing that covers your legs there will be sections on game track where your legs may get a little scratched.
- Don’t forget to bring cash there will be snacks on sale , coffee and drinks and Bowen balance’s sports massage
Being able to run in the Warthog Game Lodge, will be a privilege alone as it boast a wide variety of game like the black backed jackal, warthog, zebra and various bird species.
It will offer a lovely day in nature for the whole family and make sure you hang around after the race for their generous prize givings.
Make sure you get your entries in, as there will only be a limited amount available on race day.
See you all on the trails this Sunday.
