Bastille Day Trail Run is a wilderness adventure, for which you need to be prepared – you have been warned!

The Franschhoek Mountains in July can be covered in snow. The rivers are scenic yet cold.

This Trail Running adventure sells out every year, numbers are limited. You are assured of a wild time, wet feet and rewarding OBS, served by French Maids.

Start times:

50km – 06:30
35km – 07:00
25km – 08:00
15km – 09:00

10km - 09:30

Race Venue:

The start finish zone is located at the ‘Old Bells Lodge’ on the edge of the Berg River dam, (33’56’12.83’S, 19′ 4’27.14’E). Coming from Paarl side, head through Franschhoek on the main road (R45) until you hit the T-Junction at the Franschhoek Monument. Turn right and then right again onto the Robertsvlei road. Carry on for 5km and marshals will direct you to the parking.

CLICK HERE: Google maps from Franschhoek

Toilets and  warm showers will be available.

Registration details: 

Late Registration on Race Day from 05h30

Route info:

15km: Not such a beginner trail run, mostly on forest tracks and gravel roads, with some single-track and short technical (loose rocks, bushy) section. Moderate inclines. Your feet will get wet at river crossings. All rocks are slippery!

25km: Not for beginners. Open gravel road start with a hill to spread the field, takes you to a vertical firebreak climb, and on to a gnarly and exposed single track – with amazing views. This is a ‘no passing’ zone, as a tumble will go on for a while. Over the neck and on to forest tracks and wooded river-side single-track. That’s halfway! This is not a sprint, but an adventure. Compulsory kit.

35km: For the hard-core mountain goats. Follows the same route as the 25km, then veers off to circumnavigate the Berg river dam.

50km: Two extra mountain summits and two beautiful valleys. Take lots of food (expected time 5-8 hours)

Short Course:

At the 30km mark, after 1:30pm runners from the 50km and 35km will be directed along a shorter course of the 25km route.

Compulsory Equipment:

Compulsory Equipment for 25km, 35km, 50km categories.

1) Rain Jacket (waterproof, not just wind breaker, which you may have as well);
2) Sensible Clothing for the conditions, eg. compulsory thermal base layer;
3) Charged cell phone in waterproof bag eg. Ziplock (organizers – for emergencies only – 072 924 2371);
4) Food – sarmie, fruit, energy bars – for 4 to 10 hours!
5) Water – 1.5L min. to start, hydration pack, with bladder. You will be crossing several fresh water rivers.
6) Space Blanket & Whistle
7) Headlamp/Torch and Race Map – provided
8) Energy Events Timing Chip
9) Re-usable cup

Compulsory Equipment for 15km

1) Rain Jacket (waterproof, not just wind breaker, which you may have as well);
2) Sensible Clothing for the conditions;
3) Water – 1L min. to start, hydration pack, with bladder. You will be crossing several fresh water rivers.
4) Energy Events Timing Chip
5) Re-usable cup

Recommended Equipment:
Beanie, Buff, Gloves. Ladies, add a couple of layers. Toes, fingers freeze. Lips go blue.

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