Barnes and Stacey conquer Karkloof Trail Run
Barnes was sixth in the women's 30-miler, while Henning finished second in the women's 50-miler.
Cassy Barnes and Stacey Henning made their Karkloof Trail Run debut one to remember when they stormed into the top 10 in their respective races at the gruelling event held in Howick last month.
Barnes competed in the 30-mile race, finishing sixth in the women’s category with a time of 06:04:39, while Henning clocked 10:36:37 to claim second place in the women’s 50-mile race.
Barnes’ love affair with ultra-trail running began four years ago when she supported a friend and it soon became a bucket-list challenge.
“Two months before the race, my best friend and I decided on a whim to take on this challenge. What an exceptional race! Firstly, tackling trail running as a road runner had its own challenges. Secondly, because our decision was so spontaneous, we had limited time for preparation,” she said.
Reflecting on the race, Barnes said she was motivated by the stunning course that ran through SAPPI forests and mountain bike trails.
“Stunning views, rocks to climb, the smell of the pine forests, the humble yet motivating support from the community on the trail, and the occasional crazy steep hill kept our minds so busy that the kilometres ticked away. We were humbly inspired by the 100-milers sharing the paths with us. I’m super proud of myself, and finishing sixth was a pleasant surprise.”
As a dedicated road runner, Henning admitted she approached this trail run with uncertainty, unsure of what lay ahead.
“The Karkloof course was nothing short of breathtaking—a stunning journey through nature, weaving among towering trees, serene bamboo forests, and even alongside grazing cows,” said Henning.
She thanked her coach, Nico Pretorius, and her friends for their unwavering support during the 80 km race.
“To my astonishment, I achieved second place in the women’s 50-miler, an outcome I never anticipated. However, this success is not mine alone. I owe immense gratitude to my coach, Nico Pretorius, whose expertise guided my training.
“Thanks also to my incredible pacer, Cassy Barnes, and my support team who stood by me every step of the way, offering unwavering encouragement. Karkloof 2025 was an unforgettable adventure. I can’t wait to run it again.”
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