Here is a clean rewrite with the updated venue and date, while keeping the tone and structure consistent:

The Milky Way Marathon 2026

We are heading to Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve for this year’s Milky Way Marathon on 11 July 2026. At an altitude of around 1100m, Drie Kuilen offers an extraordinary view of the night sky that is nearly free from light pollution. From this vantage point at 33°S latitude, you will be able to see the beautiful constellations, stars and galaxies of the southern hemisphere, and marvel at the Milky Way spanning overhead.

Both the start and finish will take place at Drie Kuilen, with routes showcasing the vast, rugged landscapes of the reserve. Expect a mix of jeep track and flowing singletrack, designed to immerse you fully in this remote Karoo wilderness.

Why this race?

In our rushed lives we just don't slow down enough to enjoy our surroundings. We are too busy for sunset drinks. We don’t stop for a sunrise—segments, meetings, phone calls all chasing us to keep BUSY.

The Milky Way Marathon will slow you down. It will force you to turn off your headlamp and look UP at the night sky.

The race starts in the afternoon, so you’ll run with the sun setting in the distance and finish under a blanket of stars… an experience you won’t forget.

The run will have a scattered start during the afternoon, once the sun has warmed the crisp Karoo air. Different groups will be set off depending on your estimated marathon pace. The aim is for all runners to witness the sunset as you move through the mountains and valleys of Drie Kuilen, before transitioning into night running under the Milky Way. Approximately 10km will be run in the dark as the sky comes alive above you.

There will be a “Dark Zone” where you switch off your headlamp, follow glow sticks, and run guided only by the stars.

Included:

• Medal

• Headwear

Accommodation

Accommodation at Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve will be the primary option this year, with a range of choices available including cottages, dorm rooms, and campsites. Dorm rooms can be booked directly on Entry Ninja with your race entry.

For those wanting something more premium, you can also book one of the spectacular Huizen cabins:
https://huizenliving.co.za/

Race Details

Marathon:
Scattered start from 13:00 to 15:00. Your start time will be determined by your marathon/half marathon pace. Faster runners will start last.

Half Marathon:
Group start at 16:00. A later start batch at 17:00 will be available for faster runners who want to maximise time under the night sky.

Compulsory Kit:

• Headlamp

• Rain jacket

• Beanie or buff

• Gloves

• Fleece / warm top

• Space blanket

• Whistle

• Water / hydration pack

• Charged phone

Not allowed:

• Strip headlamps (these have proven unreliable at night events)

Meal options will be available closer to the event for those staying for a post-race dinner.

Entries close at noon on Friday, 20 June 2026.
No substitutions or changes will be allowed after entries close.

If you want, I can tighten this further for Entry Ninja or create a shorter promo + social version.