The challenge that awaited us was already becoming clear as we drove through Swellendam, on Friday afternoon, with the rain coming down and the mountains in the distance shrouded in a misty vale.

 We entered the Grootvadersbosch nature reserve and wound our way through to the registration area, where we were greeted by Angie and Ugene. The mountains above were still not visible so the big climb on the first day was still a mystery… probably a good thing, considering it would be 12km! We registered and enjoyed a hearty meal before heading back to the guesthouse that would be our home for the weekend.

 Conditions on the first morning were very good for running, overcast and cool but there was no rain. We were warned about the first climb and it lived up to its daunting reputation. Although it was all runnable, our first 12km were a steady climb, punctuated by the odd flat section, towards our peak at about 1280m. With about 1-2km of jeep track to start with, we soon hit the single track that dominated most of the running over the two days. Conditions became more and more misty and cool as we slowly ascended the first climb. It was REAL trail running with the single track varying from packed earth, to rocky sections, boggy sections and not forgetting the many puddles.

 As we neared the peak of our climb, the mist started to clear and the views across the valleys and Langeberg mountains were spectacular. The mountains were a lush greeny-yellow colour, broken up by steep gorges and dotted with patches of flowers. After taking it in, we began the great descent. It was rocky and technical – a real challenge but a pleasure to run. It was definitely ankle spraining/breaking territory, made more difficult by the amazing views – the stunning scenery was just calling out to be admired but you had to keep your eyes firmly on the path if you wanted to avoid a serious fall. I had to stop at least two or three times to take in the view, such was its glorious appeal. Once over the hill, we returned to a few kilometres of jeep track before we finished on a short downhill. It was a tough, challenging but thoroughly rewarding day of trail running.

We then enjoyed a couple of boerewors rolls, a coke and a beer for dessert. We headed back after lunch to our guesthouse to get warm and rest the weary legs.

 The next day arrived with a bit of trepidation. There was no let up in the rain and we tried as best as possible to prepare ourselves for a wet day. Ugene was convinced that the conditions were perfect for running but no-one really likes to start a race in the rain! We once again set off uphill and the legs definitely felt a bit weary after the previous day’s 30km. Fortunately it was a far shorter climb, only a few hundred metres, before we headed into the amazing indigenous forest. It was very wet and we were greeted with the first of many steep and muddy descents. This, as with a number of descents, presented you with two choices – one either had to walk or just run down very quickly with as many short but quick steps to avoid planting your feet and slipping – this theory went straight out the window as we were passed by Landie Visser bounding down the hill, planting her feet fully on the wet, leafy ground and yet miraculously staying upright – she’s obviously taking far better brave pills than me!

 We then ran up and down the forest for a couple of kilometers, weaving through ferns, jumping over logs and getting thoroughly wet – I felt like a 5 year old boy again and I loved it!

 After a testing little uphill we emerged form the forest and headed out on some more jeep track, through the fynbos… this is not the kind of jeep track you get used to in Newlands Forest, mind you… it was overgrown and all the rain meant there were not only puddles of water everywhere, but there were many streams, which had simply carved the path up. The streams turned into small rivers and the puddles turned into small dams as we ran… it was no longer a case of jumping over them but rather wading through them, with a couple of crossings above knee height. Everything was soaking wet but we were still in good spirits with another 10 kilometres to go.

 We then descended again and it was down a recently graded, but pretty steep path. What had once been compacted soil was now mud and it was a question of sliding and skidding down, rather than running. It was amazing fun though. I had never been tested like this before with so many different obstacles and running surfaces to challenge me. I can promise you that there was nothing on my mind besides the next three metres of running surface in front of me – this is one of the best things about trail running!!

At the bottom of the hill, we ran across a couple of Keith’s paddocks (Keith’s farm has amazingly been in his family for six generations – if I remember correctly – and they will be celebrating 200 years on their farm in 2017) and then onto the first of the awesome river crossings. We got across just fine though and I’m sure the pictures will serve as testament to the enjoyment of these crossings. We then hit the cattle paths, which were again muddy and many of them involved a bit of a camber… again it was quick feet required! After crossing the river for a second time, we were treated to more hills as we made our way past the 15km mark. Once we got to the top of what I can only call the sneaky b@stard (more on that just now), we descended into the forest again. It was more glorious forest running with a few more stream crossings, which were now more a dunk and recover exercise, rather then jumping over some well placed rocks (you couldn’t see them under all the water). The legs were taking serious strain by now and I for one (my running partner seemed irritatingly fresh), was hoping that it would finish soon. Unfortunately there were two significant climbs in the forest and these were a definite walking section – the sneaky b@stard earlier had lured me into a false sense of security that it was the last serious climb of the day. I spent the first few minutes of this climb devouring my Energade jelly babies like I was malnourished kid at an under-catered buffet for a weighless group on their cheat day!! We finally got to the top of the hill and turned down the short section of jeep track to the finish.

 I was very tired and quite cold but you could barely wipe the smile off my face… it was definitely the most fun I’d ever had running!

 What an adventure, what a weekend. Thank you to all involved for a tremendous event. I’m definitely hoping to be back next year.

 Report courtesy of JP van der Merwe

cforms contact form by delicious:days

 The quaint country ramble of the Greyton – McGregor 32km Bushmans Blitz and scenic 12km was the scene of trail running action in October.    The atmosphere buzzed with an excited bunch ready to tackle the Greyton hills with gusto.     Runners are encircled by mountain views from start to finish; routes include  mixed terrain of river crossings with wide river beds and decent climbs to mountain peaks with remarkable views of valleys and village.   

 The routes start in the village and veers off into the nature reserve for a warm up leg, winding through fynbos covered slopes and gentle single track.  Two river crossings later, the 32km pack are lead onto the first ascent of lung busting climbing of 5 km’s of steep uphill on a track of loose pebbles. The trail follows a river gorge that unveils spectacular views over an echo of valley and the  The Oaks waterfall 18m drop.

 After this first summit and a few moments out for the heart rate to stabilise, another few k’s takes you towards the second summit with a less gruelling ascent.  A knee jerking, zig zag descent follows and way in the distance, the trail snakes it’s way past several waterfalls and on to the 3rd and final peak, at the 18k mark which is the turn-around point.  1^st half of the challenge done at this point, the runners were rewarded with nosh and ice cold colddrink.    On route was plenty of drinkable water, but as temperatures soared, runners were spotted horizontal in the cool water, soaking themselves.

 Derrick Baard smashed the 2009 record by 20 minutes, crossing the line at a mere 3h03, with Neil Quayle and Dean Ollis pacing behind.  Jaocoline Haasbroek charged along to take the ladies win at 3h34, followed by Moyra Sheard (who also took 2nd place last year) and Christine Woods in 3rd place.

 A few limped over the finish line, a few bailed half way and comments such as “ awesome”  “absolutely incredible route” “flipping tough” were voiced.

 The 12km is incredibly scenic offering a fair workout with climbing to the top of the Greyton mountains surrounding the village.  Breathtaking views and 4 river crossings added to this fun-filled trail.   The devastating fire which raged through the area earlier on in the year plus a good rainfall just prior to the event, encouraged the indigenous flowers to burst through the freshly soaked soil and spoil us with an impressive show of colour.

 Multisport champion Tatum Prins,  having just returned from an international adventure race in Spain, opted for the 12km, finishing first at 1h13; followed by Nadia Malan & Bernice van Rensburg.   Alex Hawkins running in Five Fingers trail shoes bulleted up the hills and over the finish line at 1h01 with Guy Harker and Stuart Bateman hot on his heels finishing 1 minute behind each other.

 All in all, not a shabby way to spend a fine weekend out in the country.

2011 Greyton Classic MTB 45km Male & Female

2011 Greyton Classic MTB 21km male & female

2011 Greyton Classic MTB 10km male & female

45km MTB results 2010

21km MTB winners 2010

10km MTB winners 2010

21km & 10km Greyton Classic Trail Run 2010

19km Rooikat Trail Run 2010

2010 Greyton BBlitz & 12km

8km Rooikat Trail Run 2010

Greyton 5km, 11km & 32km Bushmans Blitz 2009

Cyclists and trail runners gathered on the lawns of the beautiful Oaks Estate, eager to tackle the mountains for a pretty tough challenge. 

The 45km MTB route was no easy feat.    But what a reward to complete this tough challenge.  Greyton’s Classic with steep climbs and technical sections have become renowned.

 The 21km route was just as spectacular,  with some good workout hills, through forests and around dams.  The 10km was an easier option, with routes around farm dams and through orchards.  Great variety of routes and scenery.

 MTB S.A. champion Renay Groustra took the lead in the 45km (also winner of Greyton Classic 2009), clocking in at 2h05, with Christiaan Kriek & Petrus Malherbe hot on his heels.   

The first lady over the 45km line was the W.Cape amazing multi-sport athlete Michelle Lombardi , at a mere 2h42. 

Check out the footage on Pedal Talk on SABC 2 

TRAIL RUN

 The 21km trail running route was spectacular, non-technical and hot on the heels of the 21km cyclists; chasing them up those arduous hills. 

 The 10km run was a milder option for newbies to trail running, juniors, speedsters and other off-road enthusiasts wanting to enjoy a good-old country jog below snow covered mountains.

 Our legendary Western Cape trail runner Nicolas Rupanga sprinted up the hills, through the paddocks, past the cyclists and across the 21km finish line at 1:21:30.   A  very close second was Jacques van Rensburg, in at 1:28:18  

 Suzette McIvor pushed hard and flew across the line taking the trophy for the 21km at 1:42:38; Madre Steenkamp  at 1:43:22 and well known athlete Hanlie Booyens in at 1:44:36 .  Ester Lategan was one second behind at 1:44:37

 Podium prizes for the 10km  winners were Jacques Pretorious 0:41:04; Danette Smith at 0:46:20 and junior 10km winner Matthew Lombardi,  grabbing his medal at 0:44:35.

 Well done to all the participants for doing so well and for making this such a great event. 

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

19km Route
The circular trail winds up around the Elandsberg mountains, gently meandering through the reserve for the first 5 k’s;  leading into steeper short climbs and descents for the next 7k’s.    Mountains of succulent karoo vegetation, herds of leaping Klipspringer and breathtaking panoramic views over Robertson and McGregor.

A variety of terrain; varying from moderate to strenuous, with some rough sections and a number of short sharp climbs.

95% singletrack and technical sections, especially on descents which then eases out well enough it gain a decent running pace to the finish.  

8km Route

A easier route which follows the MTB path through the Reserve; passing sparkling dams and majestic mountain ranges.  Great for any level of fitness to enjoy and intro to trail runners.  Path mainly jeep track, which then meets up on the singletrack for the last 4 kms of the long route.

Katya Sogget took the winning lead in the 19km ladies  and the first male over the line was Johann Stemmet with Tristan Kelly right behind him.

The event was filmed by Big Shot Media for SuperSport Trail TV Series.

Another spectacular day dawned upon us with a smile from the weather man. The historical farmstead, The Oaks, provided a beautiful setting for the venue, with fresh country air and only the sound of birds to set the tone for the day.

51 chirpy runners set off at a decent pace. All finishing runners came through beaming and agreed that the route was breathtaking and beautiful.

Speedy Gonzales, Angelo Henry, extreme mountain runner, claimed his gold medal at 1.34.25. Caitlin Lewis proudly won the ladies with a record time of 1.48.19.

Daniel Matthews, age 16, won the junior category, clocking in at 2.48.30.

A superb crowd of participants and a great atmosphere with lots of vibe and fun. Thanks to our sponsors, a great many prizes kept them smiling. Well done to all.

What a great bunch, which included the team from Finland who came through to Greyton for the event before flying back to Europe that afternoon.
Photos available on www.actionography.co,za

32km, 11km & 5km

Greyton is the ideal Weekend Warriors town, with mountains, trails, rivers, coffee shops and quaint pubs.

Target Events launched the Bushmans Blitz as an out and back 32km trail run, with the more respectable 11km and a 5km for runners taking full advantage of the warm hospitality.

32 enthusiastic running guinea pigs lined up to test the main route. It is a real joy to partake in events with little competitive drive and an abundance of adventurous spirit – as that suits my level of training!

Cas van Aardenne of Salomon took off in a streak of red kit and was not seen again, until the return leg, where he assured us that he was jogging along at an easy pace.

Old Ballies Neil Hermann and Noel Ernstzen, defied their venerable years and came in 2nd and 4th respectively, whilst Alistair Pott held on for 3rd.

The ladies category had a soap opera of mixed fortune. Favourite Linda Doke twisted her ankle in the first few k’s and limped home early. Shortly thereafter, tough adventure racer Tatum Loftus, slipped at a river crossing and damaged her arm. Ironman athlete Alison Ball, took a wrong turning and added 7 k’s to her days running (still beating her gasping husband the author), whilst Moyra Sheard struggled with a blister, which gave Julie Stevens the gap to take the crown. Trail running fun at it’s best.

The route starts off through the oak lined streets and swings off into the nature reserve for a warm up leg of 5kilometres, through fynbos covered slopes, and gentle single track.

After crossing two rivers the ascent begins and this is not an entry level climb. 5 k’s of steep uphill on an eroded jeep track, with enough loose pebbles to keep a sandboarder happy. The trail follows a river gorge that unveils spectacular views, which is just reward for the effort required to attain the first ‘summit’.

After this lung buster, some running of a few k’s takes you towards the second summit and a less arduous ascent. However, this places you at the lip of eternity – a look down a lost valley, reminiscent of Die Hel in Gamkaskloof. A knee jerking, zig zag descent follows and way in the distance, the trail snakes it’s way past several waterfalls and on to the 3rd and final peak, at the 18k mark and the turn around point.

There was plenty of drinkable water en route and as the mecury boiled towards steaming, the pools offered welcome respite from the heat.

Van Aaardenne’s winning time of 3:23 reflects his intentions to turn in some strong results in the coming months, whilst Neil Hermann’s 3:32 was a strong performance for a Master. Julie Stevens’ 4:12 and 7th overall, was a very credible result.

October 2009 Trail Run Results_0

Tough 45km and 25km routes for the more experienced riders and easier 10km and 5km routes around the farm dam and orchards for the young ones and novices, gave all a chance to compete. Darell and Gabrie Marais finished the 25km on a tandem which must have been quite tricky but they seemed to do pretty well, and they’re still talking to each other!

An addition to the MTB Classic this year were 2 trail runs which were a great success –10km & 5km.   For those not so willing to sweat it out, the farm tractor carted spectators up to the dam for good viewing of the cyclists. The new venue at the historical Oaks Manor Farm set the scene perfectly of true beautiful Cape countryside.

With thanks to our sponsors, Sportsmans Warehouse, First Ascent, Giant, USN, Thule, Revite, Isostar, Buff Headwear & Olympic Cycles for their continued support, loads of amazing prizes were up for grabs for winners and lucky draw prizes. Helderberg Cycle World and Merida Bikes donated a R4500 Merida mountain bike which was won by 12 year old Stephen Barnado who I believe borrowed a bike to take part in the event. What a great feeling!

WELL DONE TO EVERYONE We look forward to enjoying the 2010 event with you

Pro event photographers Actionography were on the 45 & 25km route capturing great moments : see their website www.actionography.co.za