Ever since I started doing yoga, my instructor kept nagging me to give trail running a try. She reckoned I would like it since it combines my two loves, running and mountains.
I finally decided to give it a go on the 28 of November. I unwittingly chose the toughest mountain run for a beginner – The Turkey Earner in Muizenberg. I signed up four days before the event. I didn’t see the need to train (not that I had time) but seeing that I already run an average of 5km at least three times a week, I figured I could pull it off. I completely ignored the bit that read: ‘Not for beginners unless you are trail running fit’.
Just above Kalk Bay
The run was tougher than I anticipated, it was very hilly and there were times when we had to do some serious climbing, in fact the whole thing began with a serious climb, by the time I got to the top, I was huffing and puffing and sweating like a pig. Very soon I found myself at the tail end of the hundred and odd runners.
There were times I ran for an average of thirty minutes on end and I couldn’t see a single soul ahead or behind me. Eventually I caught up with two gentlemen and I made sure that I don’t lose sight of them. Not very far behind us, I could see sweepers. Yes sweepers! That has never happened to me. It was quite a humbling experience. But also, I was learning pretty fast that 14km on the mountain might as well be 28km on the road.
Muizenberg from Kalk Bay side
After a gruelling 03:22:11 (partly because I stopped and took pictures of the stunning views, but that is news for another post). I eventually finished my race. It was a tough run, but I thoroughly enjoyed it and it’s something that I will do again and again. In fact I have decided to train on trails from now on.
All smiles before the run. Photo cred: F. Steunenberg
Trail runs are not like road runs, there are no water stations up there. If you are keen to try one, this is what you will need:
- A hydration pack that is at least 2litres.
- A few energy bars ( you will thank me for this one day).
- Sunscreen and hat ( unless you enjoy getting baked).
- Vaseline ( If you are wearing shorts you will need it, chaffing is not a joke, it might ruin the entire run for you).
- A comfortable pair of trail running shoes.
- Mental strength (otherwise you won’t finish strongly).
Ah, trail running is the best though, I’m impressed you started with a race. I feel spoiled by trail running, I hardly every want to run on road anymore. It is so much more fun to be on an uneven twisting trail, never sure what is around the next bend.