More fun at 2017 trails festival

THE highlight on the trail running and MTB calendar, the Marriott Dargle Trails Festival, takes place on Sunday, 13 August this year.

Hosted by the Lions River Club, the Dargle Valley will once again be a hive of activity as participants and spectators attend the festival.

“The trails will follow a similar route to the 2016 event with spectacular views making the climbs worthwhile. The trails are generally tough but not very technical, although there are sections of exciting single track for the more seasoned cyclists. The runners will also enjoy clear paths and a challenging route that takes them through a variety of scenery and vegetation,” said Craig Rees, race organiser.

The 2017 festival offers three trail events (6km, 12km and 21km), two MTB events (6km and 21km), a 3km fun, family, dog walk and a 12km horseback social ride. A portion of the proceeds from the fun family walk will go to the SPCA, and a portion of the proceeds from the horse trail will go to the KZN Coastal Horse Care Unit. Once again, trail runners will be permitted to take dogs on the 6km and 12km routes.

An exhibition polo match will be played on the grounds over lunchtime which will add to the variety of entertainment on offer at the festival. There will also be some exciting new additions to the food and beverage stalls, offering a wider variety of food and drinks. Craft and novelties will be on sale, and, a “Kids Corner” will be available, complete with fun activities and child minders so parents can participate in an event without worrying about their children.

Pre-entries for the trail running and MTB events are open on ROAG (www.roag.co.za), with registration for the horse outride and the fun family dog walk taking place on the day. For more information on the event and how to enter, visit: www.dargletrailsfestival.co.za.