therovingrunner

[therovingrunner]

A Sometimes Complete Rookies Guide to Multi Stage Trail Running Part 2

Nutrition before, during and after any race is very important, as it refuels the body’s energy stocks, helps with recovery, and it’s just plain nice having a cold beer afterwards with your feet up sharing the day's war stories with fellow runners.

Maybe the cold beer thing isn’t that important in the whole recovery process, but it’s still nice, and your mental wellness is just as important as your physical recovery!

As soon as an event extends beyond 90 minutes, nutrition and hydration becomes even more important. Every runner has individual needs, likes, dislikes and tolerance levels for different types of fluid, energy gels and food when they are running, so you should find out what works best for you before race day.

Before I knew anything about nutrition & hydration, I would literally run from aid station to aid station during an event, drink and chow everything available from potatoes to bars, gels and jelly babies, only to suffer the consequences at some later stage.

 I had no idea how these gels, bars and other foods might affect me.

However, if you're not that lucky to have found your perfect combo, having a teammate with knowledge on using supplements such as bars, gels, recovery drinks and all things important for a good race, is a massive bonus. Just keep in mind to try all these products during training and not for the first time come race day.

On a multi-stage race, you eat and drink for the next day, so it's important to eat little bits regularly during the course of the day, post run too. If your partner is stronger than you, or has a bigger running pack, let them carry everything. It does wonders to replenish your energy levels.

So here are a few pieces of advice from the people who know what they are talking about.

Whilst on a single day event you just have to focus on getting through the day and can literally run yourself into the ground go home and recover on your merry time, multi-stage running is not a one-day game! So starting day one, fight that adrenalin rush after the starter’s gun, as you have to always have the rest of the race in mind as you also have to fuel up for the following days. If you don’t there is only one outcome, you won’t make it, or you will suffer enormously afterwards.  This refers to nutrition pre-race, during the race, your recovery nutrition shortly after finishing each stage and your evening meal. You also need to eat tried and tested energy gels, drinks and food.  The race is not the time to test new products.

Your body size and the activities you choose will determine how many calories you need to consume while running. Most experts recommend that athletes eat anywhere from 100 to 150 calories per hour to maintain proper glycolic and caloric balances. Elinor Fish and Michael Benge in their Beginners Guide to Trail Running say that regardless of what type of food or gel you use for fuel delivery, carbohydrates remain your best source of energy and can greatly influence the quality of your run. Foods like bananas and peanut butter sandwiches are all great options that can be easily packed into a hydration pack or carried on a training run. The ideal pre-run meal is eaten two or three hours before exercising, and consists of about 200 to 400 calories from mostly carbohydrates and smaller amounts of simple sugar, fibre and fat. Don’t forgo eating breakfast, or you risk running out of energy. Prior to heading out the door, or tent in this case, eat some soft foods that pass quickly through the digestive system like a banana, yogurt or an energy gel. If you've never done a Dryland Event before, don't you worry, their breakfast zone will cater to all your pre-run needs before the day’s start. Make sure you make use of this for your carbo-loading needs, while having a nice, sometimes slightly nervous conversation, with other runners.

A Dryland Traverse Breakfast! The most important meal of the day, or time to catch up on what's happening on the socials! Image by Shift Media

I'm not really much of an eater during a run, so using an endurance fuel (in my case Tailwind Nutrition), suits my hydration/nutritional needs.

Hydration plays a very important part in long distance and multi-stage running. As the Rhodes Dryland Traverse takes place in early November, you can expect warm to extremely hot conditions.

The only way to ensure that you will not become dehydrated is to stop it before it happens. When you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. That is why it is important to properly hydrate before any event.

Although water is great to be drinking if you are planning on sitting still all day, if you are active you should be hydrating with a carbohydrate solution, preferably one with anywhere between 6-8% carbohydrates. This will ensure that your body not only gets the hydration it craves but also that it maintains the right amount of electrolytes. During the trail run itself, focus on sipping at regular intervals from your water bottle or hydration pack.

If running with a hydration pack (and you have not acquired your own yet) your best bet is to loan one or two different hydration packs from friends to see what works best for you, before you spend a lot of Randelas on one that is uncomfortable, chafes you, doesn’t have the right components or is ill-fitting.

A hydration pack needs to be comfortable with padding on the shoulder and lower back. It must also be light-weight with easily accessible pockets for items such as cell phone, gels or snack bars, light-weight windbreaker/rain jacket and first-aid essentials.

I've been lucky enough to run a couple of different stage races over the years, and few, if any, aid stations comes close to what you'll experience at the Dryland Traverse. These aid stations will be a great place to restock, have a mid race beer (yes that is allowed), or even have a bite of ostrich steak straight off the grill , but it also lifts the spirits with friendly staff, supporters or loved ones cheering you on.

Ostrich steaks, straight from the grill to your mouth! Image by Shift Media

At some point, everyone veers off their initial hydration plan! Image by Shift Media

For more information, click here, Rhodes Dryland Traverse

Till next time, happy running and just Keep Moving forward!

#dryland event management #dryland traverse #trailrunning #hydration #nutrition #Tailwind Nutrition

[therovingrunner]

A Sometimes Complete Rookies Guide to Multi Stage Trail Running

Just to be clear, this is by no means a professional guide to multi stage trail running! More like an almost "Complete Idiots Guide" to multi stage running, with some use full tips from qualified specialists like dieticians, sport scientists, seasoned trail runners, and some personal experiences added to the mix.

Over the next few weeks I’ll share some advice given to me or what I have experienced including training tips, dietary, nutrition & kit tips and requirements (mainly those of the elite’s).

Having done next to no racing the past couple of years, I consider myself being a rookie again, the only difference from 2010 till now is I’m older, slower & if gaining weight was a race, I’d be on the podium.

First things first, although the Rhodes Dryland Traverse has a solo category, the team category is where all the fun & games is! Who wants to suffer alone anyways? So find yourself a partner.

After a couple of pleas via the socials (Facebook, Instagram & X) plus a few BBM’s (hey, I’m old school) my trusty old partner from back in the day, Cole Stanton, answered the call for help! Now I reckon the last time Cole & I did a stage race together was somewhere between Justin Timberlake leaving NSYNC and the Covid Pandemic, but probably closer to Justin going solo!

Cole during the prologue in our last Dryland Traverse together back in 2014!

Partner sorted, it was time to follow the advice of the experts. Tip number 1. You should know your partner well, run and train together, know their running strengths and weaknesses, and see whether your running styles or in our case, lack there of, compliment each other?

Okay, so loads of little boxes to tick here. Do I know my partner? Yes! We studied together way back when and have run a few times in our lives.

Do we run & train together? We have twice in the past 4 years.

Know each other’s strengths & weaknesses, and do our running styles compliment each other?

If by style they mean dragging our broken bodies across the finish line each day, and then drink a few cold ones afterwards, then I guess that would be a “Hell Yes!!”

Perfect team mates? I think so!

Expert tip number 2. Nutrition and Dietary needs. Very important for long and/or multi stage races, but I’ll cover that next time.

For more information on the Dryland Traverse presented by Rhodes, go to https://drylandtraverse.co.za/

Till next time, happy running and just Keep Moving forward!

#trailrunning #Keep Moving Socks #Keep Moving Apparel #Dryland Traverse #Rhodes Dryland Traverse #Tailwind Nutrition

[therovingrunner]

The Return Of Jan Snow

It’s been a while. Hell, it’s probably been more than 2 years (pre-Covid) since I’ve actually taken the time to write down my thoughts and trail tribulations.

Why? There’s probably a few reasons I could give, from not having time due to work, being fat, lazy, injured or just not motivated to run. Basically LIFE happened.

My last competitive race was the Tankwa Trail in 2021, somewhere in between Stage 2 or 4 of Covid (and stage 6 loadshedding). Covid lead to little or no racing and only social runs with the Wolfpack.

Then events started coming back, and my weekends was spent either marking routes, managing them and then clearing them. Not a whole lot of “me time” to run, other than with my group of mainly primary school learners I started coaching in ‘21, and hell, coach can’t keep up with them unless we do LSD’s (no, not the drug, I don’t need WADA rocking up at my training sessions)

I must confess that the joy I get from coaching, and seeing these youngsters reach their goals, improving or just finding a love for running and trail in specific, has outweighed my own personal needs to some extent.

Have I missed the trail running community? Yes!

Have I missed running & summitting a mountain peak with the Wolfpack (Jon, Jamie, Sam & Colleen)? Yes!

Have I missed reaching that said mountain summit before sunrise and enjoying a cold beer before 9am after a proper trail run? Hell yes!

So let’s back track a little bit. Although I’m lucky enough to play a part in the biggest trail running festival our beautiful country has to offer, UTCT, and got to run a few of the recce runs exploring the route, there has been no major races on my horizon. You get sidetracked by things if there is no real goal race to run. The Otter African Trail Run has been such a integral part of who I am as a trail runner, and the reason I even started running trail, but when that chapter closed in 2019 after Otter number 5, nothing really drew my attention again, other than the Tankwa Trail which is an amazing event with the perfect combo of racing/socializing and having one heck of a trail bash weekend in the Koue Bokkeveld!

With my trusty steed Cole Stanton! We'll be back racing in Nov (or at least attempt to)

Sept ‘22 my running world came crashing down! From harmlessly kicking a soccer ball to hardly being able to walk 50m pain free 2 days later, I underwent back surgery a week later! It felt that my whole being, or that, that defines me as a person in the running community (runner/coach) imploded, and I was house/bed bound for the next 7 weeks.

Coaching happened via preset plans sent on Whatsapp, with the mom’s having to lead sessions and give feed back on times and progress. I’ll forever be thankful for my family (having to deal with old grumpy) and my athletes (having to deal with their mom’s who are apparently much stricter than I am) for sticking with me through this time. We made it out the other side, and they delivered PB’s, records, gold medals and provincial colors the following season!

Rehab followed, and I promised myself I would run one more time before year end! On the 31st of December I laced up my shoes and went for a 5km trot at my happy place down in Cape Agulhas (just don’t tell my physio), a week or to before the set given.

Slowly but surely the running got easier, the pain less and the enjoyment returned, although I still lacked motivation.

Fast forward to May ‘23 and on our way to our annual hunting trip, I bumped in Carel Heroldt, from Dryland Event Management. Over a Karoo thorn bush fire, in a dry riverbed, just off the N1, with a brandy & coke in my hand, a new goal was set! The 2023 edition of the Rhodes Dryland Traverse!

I’ve been lucky enough to run a few Dryland events, 2 Tankwa’s & 2 Traverse’s, so convincing me to run their events is easier than stealing money as a government official or finding dollars in couches at Phala Phala!

So over the next month and a bit I’ll be sharing my “Almost Complete Rookies Guide To Stage Racing”! You can use it if you want, I certainly will be again!

#trailrunning #Dryland Traverse #Rhodes Dryland Traverse #Stage Racing #Multi-stage trail running #Jan Snow #Karoo #Dryland Event Management

[therovingrunner]

Dryland Trail Lab - Reimagined & Innovating

In 2016 Dryland Event Management held the first ever Tankwa Trail Run, straight off the back of their successful Tankwa Trek mountain bike race, thus adding another trail event to their trail calendar which only had the very popular Dryland Traverse Trail Run.

Lets fast forward to 2021, and the reimagined, reinvented Tankwa Trail!

I was invited to the inaugural Dryland Trail Lab hosted by the  Dryland crew, and as with any Dryland event, it was an opportunity not to be missed. True to form, it did not disappoint.

The team is in full swing organising the 2021 edition, and invited a few trail troopers for a test event. 

The directive from the Dryland team was clear, “Do what you have to, and gives us your honest feedback on what we can do to make it even better.”  So basically, run the trails, make fully use of the water points on route, test the gear, drink the beer & wine,  and eat as much as you can, give them feedback and enjoy the experience! Then go to bed in your luxury tent, and do it all over again the next day!

Why so serious? I promise this was the last time I didn’t have a smile on my face the whole weekend! Image Giraffe Creative

20+ runners consisting of mainly Koue Bokkeveld locals, selected media, a camera crew from Bigshot Media, set off the Saturday am for what will be stage 1, roughly 20km (300m+ elevation gain) of undulating trails through beautiful vast open plains scattered with incredible rock formations.

The chosen ones! Image by Giraffe Creative

The “race” briefing given by race director Bernard le Roux clearly stated that no Strava segments was to be chased, and that the entire group will regroup at the water point, roughly 11km into the day’s stage. Oh yes, and if the camera crew stops you and asks you to run back & forth for footage, interviews etc, do it! 

This was all fun and games till they asked you to run back down the hill/valley you just climbed because they missed the shot. It wasn’t all doom & gloom though, and we all gladly did it (while swearing softly in our heads)

Now if you have ever run or rode a Dryland event, you would know their water points/aid stations are better stocked than a Woolies isle. From banana bread, baby potatoes, droëwors, electrolyte drinks and non-alcoholic beer, to sunblock/sunscreen, a comfy chair & views for days to digest. 

Waterpoint vibes! Image by Giraffe Creative

On completion of our day’s run it was time for some beer tasting (the alcoholic type this time around), recovery drinks, a few interviews that had a few feeling like Eminem. “He's nervous, but on the surface he looks calm and ready,

To drop bombs, but he keeps on forgettin'

What he wrote down, the whole crowd goes so loud

He opens his mouth, but the words won't come out”

A delicious lunch was followed by recovery massages led by EPT next to a natural pool hidden between the rocky outcrops. Cheese and wine anyone? Lunch has barely settled, and out came a platter with a range of snacks, from Sauvignon Blanc to brie and grapes, Shiraz to blue cheese, nuts & cold meats.

Recovery time! Image by Giraffe Creative

Barely back at the race village, braai vleis fires were lit, and it was time to eat again. I swear I weighed more after the weekend than before! Catering at Dryland events are next level, and you’ll have to search far and wide for a more hospitable organising crew out there. 

Day 2 had a slightly later start as we were only running about 16km of the route. Breakfast done, everyone wearing spanking new socks (as requested by the organisers as part of gear testing) we were shipped/bakkie’d off to the start. A mixture of fun undulating singletrack,  one “longish” sandy accent followed by a quick decent to the waterpoint.

The waterpoint as expected from a Dryland event, was a highlight! Stocked to the brim, music in the background, and dance moves demonstrated in the dirt road. 

Flying high! Image by Giraffe Creative

The last few km’s flew by, and all to soon, after another delicious lunch, it was time to say our goodbyes. 

So to cap it all off, what do you get from attending a Dryland Trail Lab or one of their races like the Tankwa Trail? You’ll get a great time, run awesome trails, meet amazing people, make new friends & get spoiled rotten by the Dryland team.

Enter now at www.tankwatrail.co.za

#TankwaTrail #DrylandTrailLab #trailrunning #DrylandEventManagement

[therovingrunner]

Savanna Origin of Trails set to showcase Mountain Biking and Trail Running in Stellenbosch - Media Release

There is just under three months to go to the start of the Savanna Origin of Trails Mountain Bike Experience and Savanna Origin of Trails Trail Run Experience!  Taking place on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 April 2021, adventure seekers will be treated to world-class trails over a two-day period in the magnificent City of Oaks.

“We can’t wait to treat entrants to a mountain biking and trail running experience that goes against the norm,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.  “Mountain bikers that enter (and pay) the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience before 28 February will receive an official 2021 event rider jersey.  The jersey will be delivered compliments of Aramex and just in time for the event.  The Savanna Origin of Trails is not about the race, it’s about the experience.  There is no better way to rekindle your love for the sport.”

“All Trail Run entrants will receive a technical event t-shirt as well as a finisher’s t-shirt,” continues Meyer.  “Event routes will cover a distance of 15 – 25km per day with entrants being treated to idyllic vineyard trails and picturesque nature reserves.  Look forward to two magnificent days of exploring the best and most exclusive trails on offer in Stellenbosch.”

Seen here:  Trail runners enjoying the action of the Savanna Origin of Trails Trail Run Experience.  Photo Credit:  Chris Hitchcock

EVENT INFORMATION:  Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience 

The Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience is an individual 2-day MTB Stage Race.  The routes highlight the beauty and splendor of Stellenbosch, and mountain bikers can look forward to experiencing a vast network of world-class trails while celebrating the origin of SA mountain biking.  

  EVENT INFORMATION:  Savanna Origin of Trails Trail Run Experience 

Launched in 2018, the Savanna Origin of Trails Trail Run Experience will treat runners to the best trails on offer in Stellenbosch.  Entrants can look forward to challenging, yet fun and rewarding routes with spectacular views.

  CHARITY SUPPORT:  The Savanna Origin of Trails proudly supports the Stellenbosch Trail Fund.  

PLEASE NOTE:  The event organisers will at all times adhere to Government Regulations regarding COVID-19.

Like our Facebook page:  Stillwater MTB Events / @stillwatertrail  

Follow us on Instagram:  @stillwater_mtb_events / @stillwater_trail_running

Follow us on Twitter:  @Stillwater_MTB / @StillwaterTrail

For more information or to enter the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience please email [email protected] or visit www.stillwatersports.com. 

ISSUED BY: Newsport Media

ON BEHALF OF: Stillwater Sports 

For further information contact Jacky McClean via email [email protected]

#Savanna Origin Of Trails #Trailrunning #Stellenbosch #StillwaterTrail

[therovingrunner]

AfricanX reassures runners amidst COVID-19 restrictions - Media Release

“Let Nature Give You A Run For Your Money”

With entries filling up fast for SA’s premier three-day stage trail run, the AfricanX Trailrun (scheduled to take place on the weekend of 26 – 28 March 2021), organisers are continuously adapting the event plan to ensure that Government Regulations pertaining to COVID-19 are met.

“The current Level 3 Regulations prohibit events from taking place, but we remain quietly optimistic that restrictions will be eased and/or lifted when our President next addresses the Nation in February,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.  “Taking the updated regulations into consideration, we will have clarity on how to proceed.  First prize will be to host the AfricanX in March as planned.  Our team has spent a lot of time preparing for the return of the event, and we know that runners are just as eager as we are to see it happen and hit the trails.”

“It is however important to note that we will adhere to Government Regulations with regard to the hosting of events during this period,” continues Meyer.  “We have, as a backup, identified an alternative event date which will be shared with runners should the need arise.  We hope that this won’t be necessary and that we will be able to proceed as planned.  For now we will continue with our preparations to host the AfricanX Trailrun at the end of March.  We are in constant communication with the local municipality and Disaster Management Officials to ensure the safety of runners and staff.  We promise to inform runners as soon as possible on all decisions.”  

Seen here:  Trail runners enjoying the beauty of a previous year’s AfricanX Trailrun.  Photo Credit:  Tobias Ginsberg

2021 Event Information:  AfricanX Trailrun

Teams of two trail running enthusiasts (male/female/mixed) will be seen battling it out on a route varying in distances each day.  Each stage will feature a different route that is guaranteed to keep things exciting while leaving runners in awe.

 There are three entry options:

R3400 per person – this includes breakfast and lunch, but excludes dinner and accommodation

R3900 per person – this includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, but excludes accommodation.

R4400 per person – this includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and tented accommodation at Houw Hoek Hotel.

Iconic to the AfricanX Trailrun, ALL entrants will receive a sought after AfricanX hoodie and an exclusive finisher’s t-shirt, amongst other exciting sponsor gifts!  

CHARITY SUPPORT:  The AfricanX Trailrun proudly supports The Timothy James Harlow Foundation (TJHF), a non-profit organisation that searches for opportunities to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities.  Runners can support the TJHF by making a donation when entering the AfricanX Trailrun online.  This year AfricanX entrants have the opportunity to get more involved by suggesting a candidate and/or cause that they’d like the TJHF to support.  Suggestions can be sent to [email protected]

Follow us on Face Book:  @stillwatertrail

Follow us on Instagram:  @runtheafricanx / @stillwater_trail_running

Follow us on Twitter:  @runtheafricanx / @StillwaterTrail

For additional information on the AfricanX Trailrun please visit www.stillwatersports.com, contact Stillwater Sports on 082 991 0045 or email [email protected].  

 Issued by: NEWSPORT MEDIA

On behalf of: STILLWATER SPORTS 

For further information, please contact Jacky McClean on e-mail [email protected]

#StillwaterTrail #AfricanX #AfricanX Trailrun #RunTheAfricanX #multistage #trailrunning

[therovingrunner]

AfricanX Trailrun entries open this week with an Early Bird Special - Media Release

“Let Nature Give You A Run For Your Money”

Event Organisers, Stillwater Sports are celebrating the opening of AfricanX Trailrun entries this week (opening on Wednesday 09 December 2020) with an exciting Early Bird Special that will run for the month of December!

“We are excited to open entries for South Africa’s premier three-day stage trail run,” says Michael Meyer, Founder

and Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.  “In celebration we are running an Early Bird Special that will offer a whopping 20% discount to all runners who enter in the month of December.  There are three entry options to choose from.  Remember entries are however limited.”

“We have another great offer to share,” continues Meyer.  “The Houw Hoek Hotel has made their Comfort and Luxury Rooms available for the weekend at an impressive rate.  This is, however, only for runners that have entered and paid for the 2021 AfricanX Trailrun.  You will need to present your proof of payment before being able to book a room.  That is if you choose not to stay in the tented village.  We are extremely excited to bring back South Africa’s premier three-day stage trail run and can’t wait to ‘Let Nature Give You A Run For Your Money’ in 2021.”

2021 EVENT INFORMATION:  AfricanX Trailrun

Teams of two trail running enthusiasts (male/female/mixed) will be seen battling it out on a route varying in distances each day.  Each stage will feature a different route that is guaranteed to keep things exciting while leaving runners in awe.

 Seen here:  Trail runners enjoying the action and beauty of a previous year’s AfricanX Trailrun.  Photo Credit:  Tobias Ginsberg

There are three entry options:

 ENTRIES are LIMITED in adherence to COVID-19 legislation.   

Entry Fee includes:  a sought after AfricanX hoodie, an exclusive finisher’s t-shirt, finisher medal, fully stocked waterpoints, medical support, a buzzing race village that boasts a pool chill area and bar, hot showers, entertaining evening prize-givings, busses to remote start/finish areas, six meals (breakfast and lunch), training runs, training programme, an information evening, land access fees and exclusive access to magnificent trails.

To view Houw Hoek Hotel Accommodation Options and Rates visit https://www.stillwatersports.com/event/africanx-trailrun/

For a sneak peek of what to expect watch the 2021 AfricanX Trailrun Teaser Video:  https://bit.ly/3g3ZPjS

Follow us on Face Book:  @stillwatertrail

Follow us on Instagram:  @runtheafricanx / @stillwater_trail_running

Follow us on Twitter:  @runtheafricanx / @StillwaterTrail

Hashtag:                             #MyAfricanX #RunTheAfricanX

For additional information on the AfricanX Trailrun please visit www.stillwatersports.com, contact Stillwater Sports on 082 991 0045 or email [email protected].  

Issued by: NEWSPORT MEDIA

On behalf of: STILLWATER SPORTS 

For further information, please contact Jacky McClean on e-mail [email protected]

#myafricanx runtheafricanx multistage trailrunning

[therovingrunner]

AfricanX Trailrun 2021 Venue Announced

“Let Nature Give You A Run For Your Money”

Stillwater Sports is proud to announce that the 2021 AfricanX Trailrun, which will take place on the weekend of 26-28 March 2021, will be based at the Houw Hoek Hotel, in the magnificent Overberg Region.

With a rich ten year history to look back on, the event is returning to its iconic home, but with an innovative and fresh take on the AfricanX experience.

“After much debate and research, it is clear that runners want the event to return to the venue of so many magnificent AfricanX experiences. We have heard them and can’t wait to welcome 2021 runners to the festival village in March,” said Michael Meyer, founder and Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

Launched in 2009, the AfricanX Trailrun is synonymous with magnificent trails, spectacular views, mouth-watering food, a relaxed atmosphere, great vibes and most importantly, teamwork!  

“It’s been two years since we’ve hosted the AfricanX Trailrun,” says Meyer.  “As a sports marketing agency we strive to keep our events fresh and innovative.  After a decade of hosting SA’s leading three-day stage trail run, we decided to take some time to review, revitalize and refresh this iconic race.  This is one event that we are really excited to bring back.

New developments include exciting racing and fun categories, a new look, as well as better value than ever. The iconic AfricanX hoodie will be back for every entrant to wear with pride. It is part of a value for money experience, that we believe is second to none in South Africa.”

Seen here:  Trail Runners enjoying the action of the AfricanX Trailrun.  Photo Credit:  Tobias Ginsberg

“The idea behind AfricanX has always been to inject creativity, excitement and fun into the sport, while at the same time also making it accessible to road runners capable of doing a half marathon,” continues Meyer.  “Although the distance over three days might seem daunting at first, the routes are laid out on trails that are challenging but safe.  Our focus is on balancing the challenge with a fun experience.” 

Photo Credit:  Tobias Ginsberg

Meyer adds: “Teamwork is pivotal to AfricanX.  The trick is to choose your partner wisely, as team members will rely on each other’s experience and expertise to complete each stage together.  We are excited to bring back South Africa’s premier three-day stage trail run and can’t wait to welcome trail runners to the start line in March.  Look forward to experiencing trail running at its best.”           

2021 Event Information:  AfricanX Trailrun

Teams of two trail running enthusiasts (male/female/mixed) will be seen battling it out on a route varying in distances each day.  Each stage will feature a different route that is guaranteed to keep things exciting while leaving runners in awe.

 ENTRIES are LIMITED in adherence to COVID-19 legislation. 

There are three entry options:

R3400 per person – this includes breakfast and lunch, but excludes dinner and accommodation

R3900 per person – this includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, but excludes accommodation.

R4400 per person – this includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and tented accommodation at Houw Hoek Hotel.

Iconic to the AfricanX Trailrun, ALL entrants will receive a sought after AfricanX hoodie and an exclusive finisher’s t-shirt, amongst other exciting sponsor gifts!  

Follow us on Face Book:  @stillwatertrail

Follow us on Instagram:  @runtheafricanx / @stillwater_trail_running

Follow us on Twitter:  @runtheafricanx / @StillwaterTrail

For additional information on the AfricanX Trailrun please visit www.stillwatersports.com, contact Stillwater Sports on 082 991 0045 or email [email protected].  

 Issued by: NEWSPORT MEDIA

On behalf of: STILLWATER SPORTS 

For further information, please contact Jacky McClean on e-mail [email protected]

#myafricanx runtheafricanx trailrunning multistage

[therovingrunner]

Stillwater Sports announces the return of the AfricanX Trailrun in 2021

“Let Nature Give You A Run for Your Money”

Local Sports Marketing Agency, Stillwater Sports is excited to announced that South Africa’s premier three-day stage trail run, the AfricanX Trailrun, will be back in 2021!

“We are extremely excited to launch a revitalized version of SA’s most iconic three-day stage trail run,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.  “The AfricanX Trailrun is synonymous with magnificent trails, spectacular views, mouth-watering food, a relaxed atmosphere, great vibes and most importantly, teamwork!  We’re not letting the cat out of the bag just yet, but what we can say is that the event will take place the weekend of 26 – 28 March 2021.  Be sure to save the date.  The official event launch will take place on Wednesday 02 December with the opening of entries and venue reveal.  We trust that trail runners are just as excited about this announcement as we are.”  

Seen here:  Teams of Two enjoying the action of the 2018 AfricanX Trailrun.  Photo Credit:  Tobias Ginsberg

2021 Event Information:  AfricanX Trailrun

Teams of two trail running enthusiasts (male/female/mixed) will be seen battling it out on a route varying in distance between 22km - 34km each day.  Each stage will feature a different route that is guaranteed to keep things exciting while leaving runners in awe.

 Entries will open on Wednesday, 02 December 2020, but are LIMITED in adherence to COVID-19 legislation. 

Follow us on Face Book:  @stillwatertrail

Follow us on Instagram:  @runtheafricanx / @stillwater_trail_running

Follow us on Twitter:  @runtheafricanx / @StillwaterTrail

Hashtag:                             #MyAfricanX #RunTheAfricanX

Website: www.stillwaterports.com

Issued by: NEWSPORT MEDIA

On behalf of: STILLWATER SPORTS 

For further information, please contact Jacky McClean on e-mail [email protected]

#myafricanx runtheafricanx multistage trailrunning

[therovingrunner]

Damn! I’m missing quite a few pieces to finish my #altrarunning #puzzle! Luckily one can still order the missing pieces online at RUN! #altraisolation #altrarunningfans #runstore https://www.instagram.com/p/B-oZWMZpQ47/?igshid=1rpfes4hssvg1

#altrarunning #puzzle #altraisolation #altrarunningfans #runstore

[therovingrunner]

#rovingsummits 3 Hangklip Sea-Summit-Sea Another great morning out tagging a peak with trail friends! Hangklip stays an amazing trail with various technical bits thrown in the mix, and the opportunity to explore more routes! A big thank you to fellow #altrateamred teammates @grobler_basson (📸 2/3/5) , and @samanthaholtz (📸 4/6 by @jamieholtzhausen ) for joining in & GB for leading the pack! Nothing quite like tagging a peak & cracking open an ice cold 🍺 before 9am to end off an awesome weekend! #altrarunning #altrarunningfans #zerolimits #embracethespace #tailwindnutrition #gotailwind #allyouneedalldayreally #udhydrates #ultimatedirection #selfpropelled #squirrelsnutbutter #squirrelswhotrail #snbathlete #racefood https://www.instagram.com/p/B9wfCC6JxqP/?igshid=1w4d6ov0piuo9

#rovingsummits #altrateamred #altrarunning #altrarunningfans #zerolimits #embracethespace #tailwindnutrition #gotailwind #allyouneedalldayreally #udhydrates #ultimatedirection #selfpropelled #squirrelsnutbutter #squirrelswhotrail #snbathlete #racefood

[therovingrunner]

Fun morning out at #rovingsummits 2, Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. Conditions & a moving fire line from the Du Toits Kloof fire we weren’t sure of, made the group decide to only tag Perdekop, and not Du Toits Kop too. Well most of the group, not if your Johardt van Heerden and it’s your 1st outing in Mont Rochelle. 🙈 Super windy with a windchill factor of - kakkoud on the peak, made for an interesting day out! But nothing quite beats 9am beers after tagging a peak with friends old & new! #rovingsummits 3, Sunday March 15th, Hangklip, Pringlebay. #altrarunning #altrateamred #embracethespace #zerolimits #tailwindnutrition #squirrelsnutbutter #snbathlete #racefood https://www.instagram.com/p/B9Jy_RdJPDq/?igshid=1tr8yd7rj8esk

#rovingsummits #altrarunning #altrateamred #embracethespace #zerolimits #tailwindnutrition #squirrelsnutbutter #snbathlete #racefood

[therovingrunner]

Not quite a case of out with old, in with the new, as I’m quite sentimental when it comes to my running shoes! Looking forward to many an adventure with the new Altra Running Lone Peak 4.5’s! Review/comparison on the LP 4 & LP 4.5’s to follow soon. #altrarunning #embracethespace #zerolimits #altraredteam #altrarunningfans https://www.instagram.com/p/B9BsXMnpxWW/?igshid=77v3s63lsi9o

#altrarunning #embracethespace #zerolimits #altraredteam #altrarunningfans

[therovingrunner]

If these shoes could talk! The Altra Running, Lone Peak 4, my shoe of choice for basically 80% of my #52Weeks52Peaks project. Saved me in a few sticky situations with the incredible MaxTrac grip! They deserve lazier days now, although I’m pretty sure they will still see many an adventure! A few scuff marks are the only scars of epic memories created! #altrarunning #lonepeak4 #altrarunningfans #embracethespace #zerolimits https://www.instagram.com/p/B9Bryv5JfTX/?igshid=1rgdgip77favk

#52weeks52peaks #altrarunning #lonepeak4 #altrarunningfans #embracethespace #zerolimits

[therovingrunner]

#rovingsummits #1 Helderberg West Peak was a great start to this new “adventure” of tagging peaks with like minded people! Perfect running conditions with about a 1000m vert in the 14km run! You have 5 days left to join in, just tag West Peak before end January, and I’ll allow you into the series! I know life happens, and my dates don’t always suits yours, so we’ll bend the “rules” a couple of times! Not always, just a few times! 😉 Just send me the proof of your run! 🧐 You want to do all 12 summits! The more you do, the bigger the rewards! Just watch this space for updates & what summit #2 will be! #flatisboring #mountainsummits #altrarunning #tailwindnutrition #ultimatedirection #squirrelsnutbutter 📸 Tienie Bredell https://www.instagram.com/p/B7xi6BJJy3S/?igshid=niueye8t7qns

#rovingsummits #1 #2 #flatisboring #mountainsummits #altrarunning #tailwindnutrition #ultimatedirection #squirrelsnutbutter

[therovingrunner]

#52 #52Weeks52Peaks L’Agulhas And that’s a wrap! The final one was always going to be at my happy place & on my happy trails! A cold, windy, rainy run, shared with @wings6509 ! We’ve been mates ever since we met in early 90’s in Agulhas, and have had many an adventure together as teens, students and adults 🙈 Other than sharing this with my family (but with my wife still recovering from pneumonia), Wings was the obvious choice to share a beer with before 7am on the 1st peak you see when standing at the southernmost tip of Africa! What’s next for 2020? Watch this space! But first, some quality family time! #altrarunning #tailwindnutrition #ultimatedirection #squirrelsnutbutter #squirrelswhotrail #suunto9 #RUN #happyplace #southernmosttipofafrica https://www.instagram.com/p/B6pbboYJngX/?igshid=m2uxvjgvlte

#52 #52weeks52peaks #altrarunning #tailwindnutrition #ultimatedirection #squirrelsnutbutter #squirrelswhotrail #suunto9 #run #happyplace #southernmosttipofafrica

[therovingrunner]

#51 #52Weeks52Peaks HeuningBerg, Bredasdorp This wasn’t really on the cards, but it turned out to be a little gem of a run discovering a whole new network of trails in Bredasdorp. Having been in Agulhas for the past week, but having my son with me (which consisted of a whole lot of father & son adventures)I was slightly inhibited from running till my wife & daughter arrived late yesterday afternoon, hence a 8pm run last night to let the legs know they can still do it! Fast fwd a few hours, and with good friends visiting us for the weekend, I had to get a run in! It turned into a 2 birds with 1 stone situation, so while the wife was doing some grocery shopping in Bredasdorp, I decided to tag the peak most visible from the town center! And what a pleasant surprise! These trails will definitely see me back again exploring when I have more time available! But for now, 51 down, 1 to go! #altrarunning #zerolimits #embracethespace #tailwindnutrition #gotailwind #ultimatedirection #suunto9 #squirrelsnutbutter #squirrelswhotrail #snbathlete https://www.instagram.com/p/B6T3wfMpjrZ/?igshid=1ww2d6y419dwa

#51 #52weeks52peaks #altrarunning #zerolimits #embracethespace #tailwindnutrition #gotailwind #ultimatedirection #suunto9 #squirrelsnutbutter #squirrelswhotrail #snbathlete