TRAIL RUNNING
Franza Landman and Liam Victor
for trail running . “ The THIRSTI AFRICANX TRAILRUN is one of the best organised events in South Africa , and I will once again team up with Liam . The three-day stage race is the perfect event to share with someone special , and last year I didn ’ t want the weekend to end . I believe that as a couple , it is great to tackle the trails as a team , so I ’ m looking forward to the magical scenery paired with awesome people and the fabulous vibe that you just can ’ t get enough of .”
All Types of Running
The three stages of the AFRICANX all vary in distance and terrain , offering something different for each day , and Randburg-based Nonhlakanipho Tau and Kennedy Sekhuthe are once again coming down from Gauteng to tackle the trails that they have come to love . They ’ re also hoping to better their performance at the 2021 event . “ Last year ’ s event truly was amazing – I even forgot that I had ankle issues during the run . It felt like a trail festival , especially with day three being Dress Up Day ,” says Nonhlakanipho .
“ The variety in the routes was amazing . We enjoyed a very fast first day , some climbing and technical effort on day two – my favourite – and a hot but balanced Day three . Lunching and dining with trail buddies was just awesome , and I also loved the camping experience , with hot showers throughout . That really is a rare experience at events ! Also , the stocked-up water tables will have you thinking that you are on an eating adventure . One thing is for sure , you won ’ t go hungry or thirsty – no pun intended – at this event .”
Another Ambassador that says the AFRICANX always delivers great trails , views and race village vibe , and great food , is Capetonian Blake Dyason . “ The 2021 event was really special , as it was the first time that many of us saw each other again since the lockdown started . I loved connecting with the trail community , catching up with old friends and making new ones . I also loved the race village and vibe ,” he says .
“ Each day is beautiful and offers a different view and experience , and all the trails are well maintained and runnable , but I have a friendly warning to all newcomers … Be prepared to pick up weight , because the food at this event is amazing ! Also , don ’ t forget your funky outfit for Dress Up Day , and enjoy the nerves and excitement of SA ’ s premier three-day stage trail race .”
Entries for the 2022 THIRSTI AFRICANX TRAILRUN close on Friday 11 March , and teams of two runners can enter in male , female or mixed categories across the open , veteran or masters age categories . All entrants will receive a First Ascent AFRICANX garment , as well as a finisher ’ s T-shirt and medal , plus you will enjoy well-stocked water points , a THIRSTI Refreshment Zone at the race village , evening prize-givings and entertainment , and spectacular route experiences . More info at www . stillwatersports . com or mail entries @ stillwatersports . com .
Thank You , THIRSTI
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As title sponsor of the AFRICANX since 2021 , THIRSTI has injected a new ‘ thirst for life ’ into the event . THIRSTI started bottling its iconic Still and Sparkling ranges of natural spring water in 2015 , sourced from the midlands of KwaZulu-Natal , then in 2019 launched the ultimate sports drink , ISOFIT +, and added a bold THIRSTI Flavours range a year later . In 2019 , THIRSTI became the hydration partner to both the Comrades Marathon as well as The Sharks rugby team , adding the ASBA ISSUE Cape 149 Epic | and www AFRICANX . modernathlete in 2021 . co .. For za more information about THIRSTI , please visit www . thirsti . co . za .
Images : Action Photo & Tobias Ginsberg