KZN Trail Running Coastal Series sees more than 400 runners race to the finish line at Ballito

Despite a constant downpour drenching the North Coast since Friday last week, more than 400 trail runners joined in on the action at Zululami Coastal Estate on Sunday when the weather finally eased briefly.

The finale of the KwaZulu-Natal Trail Running ‘Coastal Series’ saw resident and winner of the men’s 20km race, Andrew Erasmus add that conditions were perfect for trail running. 

“I absolutely loved the mix of beach, forest and grasslands. We do a lot of running in the Berg, so the coastal series is always very special.”

This year, the race was slightly different for so many reasons. 

For the majority of participants, the Zululami run was the first real race in what has been an unpredictable year.

A batched start for the 5km, 10km and 20km races also changed things up for the competition. 

Winner of the women’s 20km race Tarryn Erasmus said this made it a little more exciting. 

“Just getting out there again was amazing but because results were time-based, and you couldn’t see who you were competing with, this changed my approach,” said Erasmus.

As the penchant to get moving runs in the family – Tarryn says her strategy was a simple one. 

“My husband Steve is a very fast runner, so I decided that if I stuck with him, I should be fine.” 

More than fine, Tarryn finished extremely strong on her first race since having a baby earlier this year, in a time of 1hr28. 

Summarising the experience enjoyed by all, organiser Lauren Booth said:

“The weather was much better than predicted and the rain abated for a perfect window over the race. Although still very wet underfoot, the gap in the rain made for a festive atmosphere as runners arrived for their starts and cheered fellow runners over the finish line.” 

Runners all commented on the surprisingly challenging routes.