Runners gear up for famous trail run

Whether you are a novice trail runner or an experienced campaigner at the top of your game, Mount Sheba, in cooperation with Ilanga trails, is inviting you to explore your wild side and experience nature like never before.

Mount Sheba is situated in the rainforest in the north-eastern extension of the Drakensberg range. It forms part of the easternmost section of the Mpumalanga Highveld and lies at an altitude ranging from 1 600 and 2 000 metres above sea level and is near the historic village of Pilgrim’s Rest.

Although the resort is mostly known for its well-appointed rooms, gourmet meals and log fires which add a touch of magic, they will cater for the more adventurous by hosting a trail run through the enchanted forest on Saturday where Samango monkeys and rare bird’s calls will cheer athletes on along the route.

Runners will have a choice of three distances; 20, 12 and six kilometers. The long route starts at about 1 650 meters and runs through natural forest, eventually climbing via a contour path, along to a steep drop down to the lowest point. Following a stream, athletes will start the climb back towards the lodge on an interesting single track. This well-marked path through the indigenous forest, past waterfalls, promises to show what the property has to offer the nature lover.

The medium route starts at the same location through the forest and onto the contour path. Following the entrance road for a short distance, it leaves the long route rejoining the long route with its stunning single-track sections through the indigenous forest.

The short run is almost entirely in the natural forest surrounding the lodge, passing waterfalls and crossing streams, which is a great way of spending a morning. For the rest of the family, many other activities can be enjoyed such as mountain biking, forest hikes, horseback riding, picnics in the forest and trout fishing.

Registration will take place at 06:45 and the first race will start at 08:00. All finishers will receive a medal and racers can also look forward to accommodation vouchers to the value of R50 000 sponsored by Forever Resorts & Lodges. There is also a fantastic lucky draw prize as well as many other spot prizes awaiting athletes at the prize giving. Prize giving will be between 11:00 and 11:30.

Entry fees

6km: R50

12km: R80

20km: R120

For more information visit ilangatrails.co.za