General Race Information
| Event Date: | 24 – 27 October 2013 |
| Registration: | 24 October 2013 Entries for 2012 runners open 15 May 2013 @ 10h00 Entries for NEW runners open 12 June 2013 @ 10h00: first come, first served |
| Distance: | 27km, 29km, 17km (Please do not be fooled by these distances – there are some big mountains and the altitude to deal |
| Format: | 3 day stage race (trail running) |
| Venue: | Glen Reenen Rest Camp, Golden Gate Highlands National Park |
| Province: | Free State, South Africa |
The Bonitas Radox Golden Gate Challenge is a three-day track and trail run through some of the most rugged yet scenic mountains of the Free State, situated in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The race will traverse through restricted parts of the reserve rarely seen by the public, like Little Serengeti, Cathedral Caves and many other hidden gems within the park. Participants will cover just over 70km in 3 days, staged out of a single base camp in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Please do not judge the race by its distances, as it is a true challenge offering great rewards, but that means conquering big mountains and high altitudes. Running among these historic mountains is a humbling experience and you will find yourself contemplating both your past and the future. Ancient rock paintings and relics of past civilisations will pass you by as you run this race with the knowledge that you are running for the survival of a species – the Bearded Vulture.
A Race Village will be set up, and each participant will be accommodated in her/his own tent for the duration of the challenge – you can expect nice hot showers, clean ablutions and a great atmosphere. Full catering will be available to all participants for the duration of the challenge, and will include a 24-hour snack and coffee bar! The run will incorporate mainly hiking trails and Jeep track – a true off-road experience! The last day will start off with an early morning night run, which will add a new dimension to this challenge and promises to bring out the adventurer in you! By participating in this event you will set off on a journey – make sure to enjoy it with eyes wide open!
Pre-Race Briefing:
A pre-race briefing that MUST be attended by all participants will take place at 18:30 during registration inside the marquee on Thursday evening. Final instructions regarding route changes (if necessary) and a weather report will be given every morning, 10 minutes before the start of the race. Race briefing dinner will take place at 18:30 at the Race Village on 24 October. All participants have to be present for this. A fully detailed description of the route will be given, and checkpoints, medical assistance, and map work will be discussed.
IMPORTANT!
Make sure to book extra meals if your family and friends will be joining you for the night. See you there!
