This April, Capetonian runners and their head torches blazed through the vineyards of Groot and Klein Constantia for the seventh successful series of Wednesday evening Merrell Trail Runs.
Competitors were once again treated to different 8km and 5km routes on each of the three nights, effectively marked with ribbons and managed by cheerful marshalls.
Of the 21 races that Mountain Runner Events have staged here, not one route has been repeated. Organiser Graham Bird manages to put together ever changing combinations, always throwing in a hill or two, some single track and classic straights on the iconic estates to keep challenging the regulars, many of whom return fitter, faster and brighter each season.
“It’s just such a fun event” said one runner, with face painted and eyes twinkling, looking down at his granddaughter who had completed her first night run at his side. “There’s super speedsters up front and us guys, tackling the same course.” They all enjoy the same privilege afterwards as every finisher is awarded a complimentary bottle of Groot Constantia wine even before prize giving. Along with category prizes, generous lucky draws of Black Diamond torches and Merrell gear are given out while Simon’s Restaurant keeps the hunger at bay with delicious burgers.
Robert Shaff took men’s honours in the 8km overall series, along with Wesley Sweetnam and Doug Turvey in the top three. Junior rocket Hayley Preen dominated the women’s 8km competition, winning the series yet again and placing an incredible 5th overall. Never far behind, Samantha Gouws and Zelda van der Berg took second and third place.
In the 5km log, Groot Constantia locals Chadwin Jacobs and Jameel Karelse consistently stormed the finish in either first or second and they together with their friend Ashwin Wilson all took to the final podium. Kelly MacKenzie and juniors Robyn-Anne Hyslop and Erin Heath fought hard throughout the series with Kelly coming out overall winner. Seven of the top twenty positions are held by juniors – a very promising sign for the future of fast trail running in this country.
For first timers or experienced racers, this event has a special vibe. Regardless of the weather, which this time was glorious twice and ominous once, people come out and embrace the generous vibe of the evenings. Merrell is the perfect sponsor for these events, promoting the healthy outdoor lifestyle that is #MyNature for so many of us South Africans.
The Merrell Spring series will kick off in September, with more opportunities for ridiculous midweek fun. Entries open online on 01 June 2016 and tend to sell out rapidly. It is recommended to book online for all three runs at once to take advantage of the discount.
