Leon runs from Lekgalameetse to Haenertsburg

Even though he is not a professional athlete Leon Roode has been running ultra-distances since 2015 and have a keen interest in trail running.

“I have a passion for exploring our edge of the Great Escarpment (Northern Drakensburg) and I try to promote awareness of our local natural environment.

“The route from Lekgalameetse to Haenertsburg has been on my bucket list ever since I heard the stories of local legends from our area who have actually traversed this whole section of wilderness on foot,” he said.

He said the one day expedition started at the top of the Orrie Baragwanath pass, basically going through the Wolkberg Nature Reserve.

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“Along the way the route passes through and over many well known landmarks like the Knuckles, Wonderwoud and Serala peak,” he said. Roode said climbing up to the highest point in Limpopo province at the end of the day was massively rewarding.

“I was relieved to get to Haenertsburg just as the sun was setting behind the mountains.

“It took just under eleven hours to complete the total distance of 67 km with a total ascent of 3400 meters,” he said.

He added that he was grateful for the terrific support and backup during this effort. “Staff from Limpopo Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET) were very helpful and supportive.”

According to Roode the Lekgalameetse and Wolkberg nature reserves cover a huge stretch of mountainous terrain filled with tremendous natural beauty.

“There are multiple route options and camping spots throughout both reserves. We should encourage safe and responsible exploration of the reserves and support the efforts to conserve this spectacular area.”