TRACK & FIELD
Great excitement on the start line of Run The Karoo .
Hitting the Long Trails
The next morning heralded a very civilised 7:30am start . Plenty of time to enjoy a farm-style breakfast , and coffee with condensed milk , if you so desired ! The sky was a little grey , and the temperature a far cry from the heat of the previous day . The route description , for both the 14km and 22km routes , promised relatively little climbing , and more beautiful , open farm exploration with a few ‘ koppies ’ to keep it fun . No hectic cut-offs , which makes for a very inclusive event , and babysitters were on standby for families with both parents out on the course . In fact , this is probably one of the most child-friendly events I ’ ve ever been part of . From food to entertainment , your little ones will have a ball supporting their parents in a safe environment , as there is plenty to keep them occupied .
The author ( second from right ) early in the night stage .
Unfortunately , an old ITB niggle prevented me from finishing the second day . As my lyno-guy pointed out later , driving a manual car for eight hours and then attempting two days of running is asking for an ITB flair up , so I recommend that you break the journey up with an overnight stay somewhere if you ’ re coming in from Cape Town or Joburg – around eight hours either way .
Getting back to my sore leg , I didn ’ t want to risk aggravating it , and as I certainly wasn ’ t there to race , I returned to the race village and was able to enjoy all the finish line feels as the runners came in . The braais were once again fired up , and cold beers awaited all finishers at the end of their journey . I was sorry to have missed out on some great trails , but still being part of the ‘ gees ’ at the finish made up for that .
Packing the essentials is essential for happy camping !
What to Bring to the Karoo
The Run The Karoo event doesn ’ t carry a long list of compulsory equipment , but there are a few items that will make it all more comfortable and enjoyable .
• Trail running kit , including carried hydration .
• Trail shoes are recommended , as the terrain is a combination of farm roads and single-track , and often rutted and uneven . ( Your ankles will thank you for the added support .)
• Longer running socks , for the low bush ankle grazes .
• A quality headlamp – braai lights won ’ t cut it .
• Sleeping bag and pillow , unless you book the deluxe accommodation .
• Sunscreen .
• Bug spray .
• A small mat for outside your tent , to reduce the risk of a thorn invasion .
• Water bottle for your tent . There is a refill station in the race village .
• A camping chair , which doubles up as a place to hang damp towels .
• Earplugs … A must for every tented race village .
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