Runner's Guide

Everything you need to know for race day. From mandatory gear requirements to race rules and cut-off times, this comprehensive guide will help you prepare for the ultimate Tsitsikamma trail running experience.

Ultra 50km GPX RouteLite 30km GPX Route
Trail runner on a forest path beside a large tree during the Tsitsikamma race - Photo: Carmen Claire

Official Race Routes

50km Ultra

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30km Lite

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Race Schedule

Time50km30km
Friday 28thThe Trail Shop, Plettenberg Bay
16:30Gear check
18:00Race briefing
Saturday 29th
05:00Shuttle from CovieImportant transport timing—
06:00Start, TotalEnergies Petroport TsitsikammaHeadlamp start—
08:00—Start, Lottering Forestry Station
17:00—Finish, Covie9-hour cut-off
18:00Finish, Covie12-hour cut-off—

Race Entry & Registration

  • Entry fees are non-refundable except in cases of race cancellation due to circumstances beyond our control
  • Participants must be 18 years or older on race day
  • Entries are non-transferable between participants

Liability & Insurance

  • Participants enter at their own risk and must sign a comprehensive indemnity form
  • The race organizers are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage during the event
  • Participants are strongly advised to have personal medical insurance
  • Emergency medical support will be available on course

Race Cancellation

  • The race may be cancelled due to extreme weather conditions or safety concerns
  • Participants will be notified via email and social media channels

Code of Conduct

  • Respect for fellow participants, volunteers, and the environment is mandatory
  • Unsporting behavior may result in disqualification
  • Littering will result in immediate disqualification
  • Follow all instructions from race officials and marshals

Mandatory Equipment

Mandatory Gear will be checked at registration & at the finish. Severe penalty for not carrying compulsory gear (DNF).

Rquired Items
  • Route Saved/Downloaded to device (watch or phone)
  • Emergency blanket (space blanket)
  • Whistle
  • Headlamp (50km)
  • Basic first aid supplies (strapping and any personal medication)
  • Hydration pack/vest with a minimum 1.5L of water on you
  • Buff or Beanie
  • Long Sleeve Base Layer
  • Emergency Food (300 Calories) 3x Gels or 2x Bars
  • Mobile phone wtih emergency contact saved
  • Emergency Contacts
    Johnny071 068 6903
    James082 925 7885
  • Weather Proof Jacket (Minium 10,000mm and sealed seems)
  • Trail running shoes with good grip

Recommended Equipment

  • Power bank for mobile phone
  • GPS navigation watch
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen

General Rules

  • Follow the marked route at all times - shortcuts will result in disqualification

Cut-off Times

50km
Start0km06:00
Heuningbos15km09:30
Keurbos Hut29km13:00
Finish50km18:00
30km
Start0km08:00
Bloukrans—12:30
Finish30km17:00

Support & Pacers

  • There are no pacers and support crews allowed
  • Supporters, family and friends may only access designated areas

Environmental Rules

  • Keep all trash and discard at appropriate facilities - leave no trace on the route
  • Stay on designated trails to protect vegetation
  • Do not disturb wildlife
  • Respect private property boundaries

Disqualification

Participants may be disqualified for:

  • Missing mandatory gear at gear check
  • Littering or environmental damage
  • Receiving unauthorized assistance
  • Unsporting conduct or dangerous behavior
  • Missing cut-off times
  • Leaving the marked course