Gear up for Mtunzini Bush Challenge

THE annual Mtunzini Bush Run held in early August provides a unique opportunity for young and old, the fit and less fit, trail blazers, jolly joggers, speed walkers and even children to adventure through the beautiful Umlalazi Nature Reserve.

The main event over 16km takes runners through the Zini River Estate, along a lush trail beneath the local golf course and into the Raffia Palm forest.

The route then loops into sections of the Siyaya hiking trail where hiking might become mandatory for some, as the numerous flights of trail stairs make for rather heavy legs.

This section of the trail ends at the local beach parking lot and those who prefer the more predictable tarred terrain are relieved for roughly a kilometre as the route takes runners towards the Umlalazi River.

The route then cuts back across a short trail towards the beach and runners are expected to get their shoes sandy while sinking into 1km of resistance beach running.

The next few kilometres of the route are undulating as the trail heads back along a different section of the Siyaya Trail that has been well maintained by the local cycling community.

The route pops out at the Mtunzini Bush Lodge and the home stretch is a flat trail with a sneaky hill at the end to separate those who left a little in the tank from those who sprinted the downhills earlier on in the race.

Top runners complete this course in just over an hour, but for most, this trail is roughly a two-hour commitment.

Much needed refreshments are provided for everyone and the fresh smell of boerewors or egg and bacon rolls make for a great post-race atmosphere.

Try the 10km route
The 10km route incorporates many of the same trails and experiences as the 16km, however 10km runners can happily skip their stairs training for this event.

Runners cross paths with the 16km route at the Raffia palms, as well as during the final 2km home stretch making for a great opportunity to hi-five friends and family.

There is more than enough space for any ‘racing snakes’ to pass.

There is also a fun 5km route option for walkers and children that also incorporates some of the beautiful trails and the final hill challenge.

The event is family friendly, well-marked, well supported and provides a great opportunity to get active in an exquisite outdoor setting.

Bring your trail shoes, colourful shorts, old poly-shorts, buffs, camel packs (if need be), snack packs, binoculars, children and a little bit of energy.

Join in on this enjoyable event on the KwaZulu-Natal running calendar.

For any queries about the race or entries, contact Paul Mannix on 082 5716559 or for online entries visit www.mtunziniac.co.za.