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Equipment
The Koedoeslaagte trails are open and maintained and there will be no need for gators. You will hopefully spot the snake before stepping on it :D
We will suggest that runners plan to run in a modular outfit. End of May, the mornings could be cold and the days could get fairly warm:
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Technical Running T-top rather than a vest. The Anatomic Trail Top which every Quartzite and Granite runner will receive in the race pack will be perfect. Please consider to invest in the Crater Traverse bright, long-sleeve Moisture Management Sports-top. An ideal base or second layer. Please order yours from the merchandise shop.
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UV-sleeves will help to beat the early morning chill and will be ideal to protect the arms from the sun
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A running peak/cap is a must. We run in all directions and through shaded and sunny patches. There are not many overhanging branches to keep an eye on. The Crater Traverse Technical Running Peak is perfect for the run. Please order yours from the merchandise shop
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A wind-jammer/gilet/shell, sleeveless or long-sleeve is a must have. It could be sleeved or sleeveless and no need for a hoodie. Anatomic's Pack Mac or Pack-me-shell mens / ladies product is ideal
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To protect you from more extreme cold, please invest in our Crater Traverse Multi-functional tubular head & neck scarf.
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Depending on your choice of distance, there are 3 - 4 water and refreshment points along the trail. These will be well stocked. It is however advised that athletes carry at least 250-500ml of water on them
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For the first stage on day-1, inexperienced or cautious runners are advised to run with one or perhaps two trekking poles. On stage two the 15km Quartzite runners will have to deal with a fairly steep rocky downhill early on during the stage and should consider using a trekking pole/s
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The chances for rain and water-crossings are extremely slim. Please wear your standard socks and preferably, trail-specific shoes.
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We suggest that runners take with them some plaster and antiseptic ointment to be able to patch up a cut, a bruise or a scratch
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Remember your camera! Or a cellphone. We do have signal, although limited, along the Koedoeslaagte trails.
Training
Quartzite and Granite 2-day runners need to prepare for a fair bit of climbing. The 11km Lekka Run on the Sunday is undulated, but no climb considered as "steep".
Quartzite Run
Day 1 - 20km, 705m elevation
Day 2 - 15km, 556m elevation
Granite Run
Day 1 - 15km, 530m elevation
Day 2 - 11km, 188m elevation
(also the 11km Sunday Fun Run)
If you don't have access to long steepish hills; Up-and-down long staircases, or sessions on a stair-step machine OR hard-effort low-cadence pedaling on a static bicycle for 10-15 minutes will be ideal training for climbing.
If you are a new-comer to trail running, it is in your interest to either come to Koedoeslaagte and check out the trails over a weekend. Try and do at least one or two trail runs over rocky, mountainous terrain to sort out all the niggles and equipment. If you have never run with a backpack or waist-pack, please test the equipment before you take on the Crater Traverse.
