Conquering the 1000 Hills Challenge

The 1000 Hills Challenge, hosted by KZN Trail Running took place at the scenic Nagle Dam, a Msinsi Reserve, in the Valley of 1000 Hills, near Pietermaritzburg over the weekend.

The iconic trail running event, now in its eighth year, is renowned for its brutal course, incorporating undulating climbs, sharp descents and a river crossing or two across the various distance options.

Yet it was in the face of these challenges that the spirit of trail running truly shone as fellow runners encouraged one another on and assisted each other through the tough stages of the trail.

A number of Dolphin Coast runners took part in the challenge. Natasha Barnes an avid trail runner described the 38km ultra route as mentally and physically tough.

Local runner Marise Prinsloo was first veteran lady home and placed fifth in the woman’s open category of the 20km trail event.

The 1000 Hills Challenge is one of KZN Trail Runnings “Big six” events. These are premier events that make the bucket list of many a trail runner due to their exceptional offerings.

The event offered several different distances to choose from, with the flagship event being the 38km ultra which provided a serious challenge to even the most seasoned of trail runners. The other options were a 20km, 10km and a family friendly 5km run.

Participants circumnavigated the entire dam along cattle paths as well as explored parts of the river above the dam and the surrounding valleys and hills.

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Points for creativity!