KZNTR Summer Series Table Mountain event dished up a cultural experience as well as exciting trails

Billed as a cultural experience rather than a trail run, the KZNTR Summer Series Table Mountain event took place on 19 November 2016 in crisp, clear conditions. The 7km, 12km and 20km routes all ascended the iconic, flat-topped mountain outside Pietermaritzburg, which is steeped in local folklore and afforded participants magnificent views of the uMngeni and uMsundusi valleys, Nagel Dam and Pietermaritzburg in the distance.
“This race is special, it’s the one I make sure I do every time. The climb early on is a challenge when the body hasn’t warmed up, but the views and rare opportunity to experience a place that is sacred to the local community make it so worthwhile!” said PMB local, Colin Boyes, who ran the 12km course for the 9th time.
There was a strong showing from local runners in the 7km and 12km events, but regulars put their stamp on the 20km event. The men’s 20km was won by Nomore Mandivengerei (1:23:11), who is putting the final training in before Ultra Trail Cape Town in 3 weeks time, Muzi Madikwa in 2nd (1:26:13) and Innocent Nyawose completing the podium (1:36:34). Kim Westbrook has returned to the trails with a bang, winning the ladies 20km event in 1:51:47. Chasing hard were Jess Kew in 2nd (1:53:15) and Zoe Papadakis (1:53:25) in 3rd, pushing each other to the finish line.
Participants were encouraged over the finish line by local Zulu dancers and could enjoy an array of shopping, from great coffee and food to beaded jewelry as locals as well as visitors to the area took in the festival-like atmosphere.
This was the second event of 3 in the KZNTR Summer Series, the final event taking place at Hilton College School in two weeks’ time on the 03rd December 2016. Visit www.kzntrailrunning.co.za for more information.


To view the full album of race photo, visit the KZNTR Facebook page HERE.