The Fox Trail, a longstanding tradition in the SA Army Intelligence Formation’s fitness culture, made an impressive comeback on 5 September 2026 at Karee Lapa in Potchefstroom. The event, which was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, concluded in a lively prize-giving ceremony filled with cheers, laughter and admiration for the participants who braved challenging weather conditions.
The revival of the Fox Trail takes place under the leadership of the General Officer Commanding the SA Army Intelligence Formation, Brigadier General Josephine Molatelo Motau, as part of her mission to revive the traditions of the Intelligence Corps.
“The Fox Trail is that it brings together unity. It brings us together as a formation, as an intelligence corps, together with the communities that we are part of,” added Brig Gen Motau, who herself completed the 5km run.
Photos: Wouter Pienaar
The 2026 race featured rugged terrain, gravel and muddy sections following Friday’s rain, with pools of water along the route, as well as challenging uphill and downhill stretches that tested the endurance participants. Hundreds of participants from all walks of life, including military personnel, professional athletes, fitness enthusiasts and families, took part in the 10 km run and walk and the 5 km fun run and walk. Brigadier General Motau presented prize money to the top finishers and handed out spot prizes, as well as special prizes to veterans and the youngest participants who took part in the race.
The 10km winner in the men’s section was Puseletso Mofokeng. The women’s 10km winner was Marietjie Vermaak.
In her vote of thanks, Brigadier General Motau congratulated the participants and thanked the organisers, and everyone who worked behind the scenes to make the event a success. She also acknowledged the presence of distinguished guests from the Military, North West University and JB Marks Municipality. She further emphasised that the revival of the Fox Trail is only the beginning of restoring the Intelligence Corps’ traditions:
“This is not my Fox Trail. There are many more traditions that we are reviving,” she concluded.
