Race Report by Fran Siebrits (April 2017):
April in the Karoo is arguably the best time of year to visit – the
summer heat is settling, the winds seem to be more gentle than usual and the
winter bite has not quite woken up yet. However, this massive part of South
Africa has a harsh beauty for which it is renowned, and the unpredictability of
the weather adds an exciting element to its reputation.Fortunately, these two days covering 65km were generously hospitable, a
theme that was extended to participants in every other way humanly possible.
Welcome to the Karoo!
A small group of about twenty different runners from across the country, most
of whom didn’t know each other, gathered to co-habit for three nights and two
days. A recipe for disaster, some would say.
On the contrary, we all left with a greater sense of community and
connectedness. So why did we all feel so strongly attracted to the Karoo? Apart
from the beauty, it’s due to the generous and hospitable environment. And
how was this environment created? It’s obvious that credit people is due to the
people operating this well-oiled machine! A network of family and friends work
closely with Willem Avenant, race organiser, and his Karoo Running team.
The bar was already set very high on arrival with goodie bags packed to the
brim; and this standard of abundance did not flay once. It was obvious from
the first meal, all lovingly sourced and prepared by Erika from Karoo Cuisine,
we were not going to starve. Locally sourced veggies and greens accompanied
the famous Karoo meat dishes – a Banter’s delight! Each meal was a spread of
fresh decadence and even the vegetarians were treated like kings with home-
made, high-protein tasty alternatives.
The mild weather allowed us to relax outside around the campfire where
evenings were spent chatting and laughing. Some took the opportunity to
sample the sponsored beer and wine (another massive plus on the hospitality
front) not letting the next day’s distance deter them from getting a good dose
of the Karoo’s night skies and kuiervuur conversation.
Although only in its second year, Willem wishes to keep this event small and
intimate, with hospitality at its core. This boutique experience is laid on to
encourage participants to immerse themselves in the Karoo, rather than just to
race through it. This is running hospitality at its best!
If you can’t wait until next year for a Karoo Running experience,
then don’t miss Koppie X-ing’s big brother event, Sneeuberg Traverse. These
three days of trail running will take place 2-5 November 2017, covering 100km
which include more technical trails crossing the iconic Sneeuberg.
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