An incredible weekend of trail running was had at Wagendrift Dam. Despite heavy downpours on Friday, over 500 the diehard trail runners arrived full of enthusiasm and were more than ready to take on the muddy trails around a pristine and very still Wagendrift.

READ: Day 2 of KZNTR in Estcourt

Saturday’s run choice consisted of 5km, 10km or 20km routes. However there was no escaping the mud and in true trail running style, the athletes took up the challenge with huge smiles and bucket loads of grit and determination.

The 20km was won by Lonwabo Magwa for the men, while the women’s event was won by Shae Karssing.

Back in the race village, the mood was becoming festive. Athletes and their families that camped at Wagendrift dam were thoroughly entertained by Estcourt’s Alex Licen as he belted out many favourite tunes. Matt Gardiner then continued to entertain for a further few hours.

Sunday morning had a misty and ethereal feel to it, quite a contrast to the brightly clad runners preparing themselves at the start line.

The day’s racing was a choice of 30km, 20km, 10km and the fun 5km route. No one internalised that the route had not yet had time to dry out after the rains and extremely muddy conditions made for some challenging running.

Although times were not perhaps what the athletes were planning, it didn’t stop the broad smiles and positive comments that the marshals received. After all, this is trail running and trail runners give it their all, rain or shine! By the end of the race, everyone had brown shoes, brown legs and mud splattered clothing but a gigantic sense of achievement in their souls.

NOW SEE: Day 3 at the Bushmans Trail Run in Estcourt

Werner Claasen took the title of 30km champ for the men and Meryl Cooper for the ladies.

Despite the churned up trails there were still some excellent times. James Kelly was the overall men’s winner, completing the full 50km over two days in the best time, and Shae Karssing was impressive as she took the women’s title. A complete list of all the results over each distance is available on the KZN trail running website.

Well done to all those that braved the often treacherous conditions and did so with such a carefree attitude. Estcourt Athletics Club and KZN Trail Running, look forward to welcoming you all back to the stunning Bushman’s Trail Run in 2020.

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