For 2020 Petrichor Adventures have added a trail run to their Trek2Teebus, presented by SEESA, mountain bike event. Dubbed Trail2Teebus, it will take place from the 1st to the 3rd of May.  The three-day trail running stage race offers various route options through the Karoo koppies of the Steynsburg region, of the Eastern Cape.

Like its mountain biking sister event the famous Teebus hillock provides the “landmark… kopje-crest that breaks the veldt around.” It also boasts a sunset run, on the opening day, which will provide a stunning view of the Karoo sky at night. Unhindered by light pollution the magnificent constellations illuminate the firmament, setting the scene for the weekend’s adventures.

“The Karoo is a special place with its quaint farm-style charm, warm and genuine hospitality” reflected Rohan Germishuys; of event organisers, Petrichor Adventures. “At Trail2Teebus trail runners will be welcomed with open arms to the farm, which hosts the race village, by Oom Charles. It is characters like him and their way of life, in this region, which will draw you back again and again. The food, history and the Karoo landscapes will feed runners’ souls.”

Traversing scenic ridgelines, the Trail2Teebus will provide a spectacular trail running experience, though rock-hoping is optional. Photo by Jacques Marais.

“Trail2Teebus’ route will include traverses of vast open plains, trots along mountain ridgelines and hops between iconic Karoo koppies” Germishuys elaborated. “Along with the Trek2Teebus, presented by SEESA, this event was never designed for massive numbers of competitors. But rather the races are intended to be focused on the personal experiences, providing runners and riders with memories and friendships which will last a lifetime. Entry numbers are capped at 200 riders/runners and we’ve seen that everyone gets to know each other at the end of the three, stunning, days.”

Route wise, the Trail2Teebus offers a short option on the longest of the three days. The event kicks off with a 12-kilometre-long evening run, which boasts a sosatie braai at the 6-kilometre mark. Taking place in the evening it allows mountain bikers – who are riding the Trek2Teebus, presented by SEESA – to join for the run. Then on Saturday trail runners have the choice of a marathon 40-kilometre stage, or to take a short-cut and reduce the distance to 20 kilometres. The final stage is roughly 20 kilometres in length and brings the event to a close with more stunning trail running.

Trail2Teebus opens with an evening run which will provide trail runners with an opportunity to see the Karoo sky at night. Photo by Jacques Marais.

Hosted on the Harmonie Farm, 12 kilometres outside Steynsburg, the race village’s accommodation options include single person dome tents or luxury canvas tents. The luxury tents include beds and linen, are intended for two people sharing and are perfect for teams or runners/riders who are accompanied by a non-participating partner.

Trail2Teebus is a fully catered stage race, with meals provided throughout the three days. The catering is classic Karoo, with highlights like a mid-stage braai on Friday evening and hearty farm-style meals throughout. Moer koffie and beskuit start the days while fine wines or a craft gin and tonic will bring them to a perfect conclusion.

Runners are encouraged to slow down and take in the views. Photo by Jacques Marais.

Entries are open. To find out more about Trail2Teebus visit www.trail2teebus.co.za.