Merrell Hobbit Trail Runs presented by Nikwax, Hogsback, Border, 11-12 October
The
100km event takes runners on a magical journey along the Amatola Hiking trail,
with over 5000m of ascent, making it one of the toughest multi-day trail running
events on the calendar. The two days are long, with average finishing times of between
eight and 12 hours each day, giving the runners plenty of time to reflect on
life’s subtleties as they experience the physical, mental and emotional highs
and lows that come with covering the extreme route. There is also a ‘rustic’ overnight
stay at Cata Hut, adding to this truly unique experience.
A
field of 41 runners lined up at the start line at Maden Dam on the Friday
morning, with only 30 managing to get an official finish at the Arminel Hotel,
Hogsback on the Saturday afternoon, once again led home by 2012 winner, Ryno
Griesel, while race novice Driekie Black claimed the women’s title. Most runners
finished elated and smiling, some with tears of relief and joy, but all saying
there were no words to describe how they felt as they crossed the line.
While
the 100km runners were busy with their second day, over 220 runners made the
trip to Hogsback for the one-day races. The 38km event took the runners on a
loop out and over Hogsback Mountain, joining up with the 100km route, while the
16km runners did a tough loop in the forests surrounding Hogsback. The 5km loop
was far tamer, with families and kids getting a taste of single-track trail
running at its best.
Check out www.mountainrunner.co.za
for more photos and results.