Helderberg Mountain Trail Running Challenge

If you’re a nature junkie with a need for speed then test your endurance at this scenic off-road race

There’s something to be said for taking the trail less travelled, for venturing to new heights that few people would attempt to tackle, for climbing beyond the limits of the body and the mind. The Helderberg Mountain Challenge, which takes place on Sunday, 17 May 2015, is the ideal opportunity to do this while also immersing yourself in the scenery of some of the country’s most beautiful peaks.

This Somerset West race covers a picturesque trail running route and offers both spectacular views and plenty of physical challenges for those craving an endorphin-induced rush (in fact, it’s one of the toughest trail runs out there). Participants will twist through dense fynbos, dart over boulders and navigate narrow ridges, tricky slopes and bold rock faces. 

The Helderberg Mountain Challenge is one of three races that make up the Mountain Challenge Series (the other two are the Jonkershoek Mountain Challenge and the Marloth Mountain Challenge). Runners can compete for the best overall time across all three contests (providing that you entered the Jonkershoek Challenge, which took place earlier in May) or simply choose one of the races to compete in. So, if you’re looking for excellent exercise and breathtaking vistas then lace up your running shoes and start training!

ROUTE OPTIONS FOR THE 2015 HELDERBERG MOUNTAIN TRAIL RUNNING CHALLENGE

24km Helderberg Mountain Challenge (HMC)

Traversing both the 1131m-high Helderberg Dome and the 1003m-high West Peak twice, with a total ascent of approximately 1960m (plus the equal descent), this race is not for the faint-hearted! Described as one of the most brutal trail runs out there, this is a Brown 7C run that will give your calf muscles a run for their money.

15km Helderberg Mountain Challenge Lite (HMC Lite)

Rated as Green 6C, this run is also extremely physically demanding as it involves more than 900m of vertical height gain to the summit over a distance of 6.5km, with 430m of that covered in the last 1.75km. It’s a gorgeous route, but don’t take it on unless you’re very fit and experienced.

10.75km Helderberg Mountain Run (HMR)

If you’re seeking less of a challenge but still want the slight leg burn that comes from a 600-m vertical climb then this option is your best bet. Meandering through the reserve along some of the same tracks that the other races cover, this route has all of the beauty minus the pain and technical challenge of the big lung-busting summit. It’s rated Green 4B, so it’s still tough but manageable.

ENTRY FOR THE 2015 HELDERBERG MOUNTAIN TRAIL RUNNING CHALLENGE

Pre-entering the challenge online is advisable as entries are limited and there may not be space available on the day (also, only those who pre-entered will receive finishing medals).  You can register to participate at Sites.google.com/site/mountainchallengeza/hmc/enter, and online entries will close at 10am on Tuesday, 12 May 2015 or when capacity is reached. Your entry fee includes all entry and permit fees for the Helderberg Nature Reserve.

Costs are as follows:

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Have a squiz at our guide to annual May events to find out about more hot happenings taking place during the month.
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