running

2020 was the grim reaper of dreams. But tapping out of what makes us tick is the surest way to have it all fall apart. With local tourism and event organisation having taken one of the biggest knocks through the pandemic, it’s time to turn our dreams towards the local gems around us. Running wild and free is possibly the exact opposite, and ideal antidote, to lockdown.

Running wild on the African continent is a pastime as old as time. A connection to ancient places and spaces, people and legends.

Why Running Improves Productivity

Any runner knows, that our overall sense of happiness, accomplishment and health improves when we lace up regularly. Running is one of the most natural forms of movement, and a definite life-balancer. But did you know, that running makes you more productive, and better able to achieve your work goals, too? You might want to take this article along to your next performance appraisal.

The Trail Series® Phantom Rally (TSPR) is the new Wildrunner offering with all the buzz and vibe of the tried and tested Trail Series® format, just wrapped up in a socially distanced, masked and sanitized offering. From 1 July, trail lovers of every age and ability will be able to take part in a new race each month, experiencing the beauty and diversity of the Cape Trails in the only competitive (or non-competitive!) way.

In most parts of South Africa, winter is the most beautiful time to hit the trails. Waterfalls, storm chasing, abundant plant life and good old puddle jumping are usually all the motivation we need to head to our favourite trail heads. But for those who are new to the idea of training through the cold months, here's some advice and inspiration to nail the season ahead.

Shorter, Faster

What I Wish They Had Told Me

Words by Kim Stephens

Crossing over to trail from road running, or taking up trail running as a brand new hobby can take some adjustments, and there are surprises beyond the odd snake spotting that you might want to factor in.  Did you know, that plants sometimes fight back? That trail "running" can include ladders, ropes and chains? That your road pace means sweet nothing on a mountain run? A few trail gems shared their gems with us.

Hosted by Wildrunner, the BOS Sport Mountain Challenge Series, is the only one of its kind in South Africa. A tough, pure mountain running series made up of three separate races; the Jonkershoek Mountain Challenge (JMC), the Helderberg Mountain Challenge (HMC) and the Marloth Mountain Challenge (MMC). Each event consists of a Lite, Extreme and Ultra distance race. To complete the series, participants must compete in the same distance category at each race.

Runners share… a lot. We share long journeys on the trails, we share life stories, toilet breaks, emergency medical gear and, at a push, we’ll share our secret refuges or lesser known trails. But we don’t often share our truly weird race rituals or superstitions. Lucky undies? Charms in your pockets? Here is a round up of true stories that will make you feel better about your own quirks.

Consistency is King

There are years that come along and redefine certain arenas; 2019 was one for the running books. Here is a look back at a handful of the utterly memorable moments, plot twists, triumphs and tragedies that redefined our sport.

April

Ah the trail runner… an undeniably simple being, motivated simply by wide open spaces, natural environments and the pursuit of experiences over worldly goods. They choose mountains, they choose freedom, they choose community… but, for all their lack of commercially driven ideals, they also choose a lot of gear!

So what is on the 2019 list of Must-Haves for the trail runner in your life?

Our summer trails are alive with epic displays of flora, and teeming with bird and insect life. With sunrise around 5am in peak season, we have more hours to spend racking up the miles in our trail shoes, and can even squeeze in a decent session before the confines of an office.

So what should we all consider before lacing up in the heat of summer?

Hydration