In 1991 I pitched my tent in the same spot as far more famous climber from South Africa had done 8 years before. Chamonix is the birth place of alpinism and modern mountain travel. The view from Snell’s Field camp site at sunset up the Mer du Glas to the Dru was and still is inspiring. IContinue reading “Two Trails, Three Runs – SPARC Trail Running Talk 12/12/17. My UTMB and TTR experience”
Tag Archives: trail run
Oorlogskloof Rock Pigeon Route 5 day Hiking Trail outside Nieuwoudtville, Northern Cape – Quick Guide
Deserves to be one of the great hiking trails in South Africa! Remote, authentic and adventurous. You are continuously confronted with little rock scramble detours which highlight a kloof, waterfall, rock arch or just spectacular view. There are many, many signs naming local plants throughout. This is a real treat and everybody will get aContinue reading “Oorlogskloof Rock Pigeon Route 5 day Hiking Trail outside Nieuwoudtville, Northern Cape – Quick Guide”
Ringing the Bell:
I leave the Hikers Parking at 6h00 sharp. Scouting the first river crossing last night helps so it goes quickly and I gain altitude. I see two lights below me. They have chosen a different path. We all have. I am walking out of the darkness into mountains cast in shadows. As in Magic andContinue reading “Ringing the Bell:”
Myburgh’s Ravine: Top 10 trail running routes Table Mountain #4
nA real mountain run on a remote part of the mountain. The path is remarkably well worn. The actual Myburgh’s Ravine would probably be quite wet and treacherous in winter or after rain. Approach: Drive up to Farrier’s Way from Valley Road. You will pass through a and park your vehicle at the end ofContinue reading “Myburgh’s Ravine: Top 10 trail running routes Table Mountain #4”
Urban Trail – Constantia Greenbelt – Table Mountain top trail run #7
This great loop does not wonder more than 50 m from houses at any point. Despite this it feels like you are in nature. The temps are generally cool under the green canopy of trees. Almost equal mix of single track and pavement makes this a real gem. There are no major hills so reallyContinue reading “Urban Trail – Constantia Greenbelt – Table Mountain top trail run #7”
Puffer Prep 201:
Proper Planning and Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance. I can’t claim this as my own saying but it is a British Army adage. So what does this mean for race preparation? 1) Do not try something on race day or race week that you have not tested before! 2) You want to know how each piece ofContinue reading “Puffer Prep 201:”
Top Ten Table Mountain Trail Routes: #2 Arboretum, Silvermine Loop
This is the second installment to document my Top Trail routes on Table Mountain. The first is here. Overview: Super steep but (only just) runnable ascent to the fantastic loop around the Silvermine Dam. The route starts in forest plantation and takes you into the fynbos higher up. Distance: 13 km (1h45 to 3h) Total Ascent:Continue reading “Top Ten Table Mountain Trail Routes: #2 Arboretum, Silvermine Loop”
Top Ten Table Mountain Trail routes: Kringe in die Bos
The trails are wet, evenings are dark and temps are cool: perfect for hitting the trails. I want to list my top ten trail routes that showcase the best of Table Mountain in no particular order. All can be completed in 1 to 3h depending on speed. Today I feature one of my old andContinue reading “Top Ten Table Mountain Trail routes: Kringe in die Bos”
Mnweni Marathon race report
Our day starts at 5h00 when Roger picks me up just before the rain comes down in earnest. It is friday morning and the beginning of our journey to the Drakensberg. We are about to embark on an epic drive to the Mnweni Hiking & Cultural Centre which is the start venue for this race.Continue reading “Mnweni Marathon race report”
In search of a hill aka Brain Fry: The Lesotho Ultra Trail 2013
My brain has finally returned and taken residence rather than gone to a sleepy place for the last few days since the Lesotho Ultra Trail. I have a certain fascination with hills (probably from my climbing days). The Lesotho Ultra Trail came along promising a brand new event and plenty of hills. I was in!Continue reading “In search of a hill aka Brain Fry: The Lesotho Ultra Trail 2013”