The Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, eThekweni, South africa
Molweni Trail Run, 2-day trail run in Krantzkloof Nature Reserve
Excitement is building in the week prior to the opening of entries for the inaugural Molweni Trail Run, which sees many role players joining with the corporate sector for the benefit of the local communities. This project managed and directed by 369Communications, involves Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (EKW) who are giving permission for the event to be hosted in their pristine Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, within the boundaries of the eThekweni Municipality.
Only 250 entrants will be allowed, so those quick enough to enter after entries open at 8am on the 1st October 2013 will make it into the final field. The next 100 athletes who don’t make the field will go onto a waiting list, and will be contacted should any of the 250 entrants not be able to participate. The field size is limited in Year 1 to test the impact on the environment, following which EKW will make an assessment for the field size in 2015.
What sets this event apart from others is that the athlete is the focus of the event and will have an amazing “user experience” both during and after the event. “Attention to detail for the athlete will be the focus”, say Event Director Graham Daniel, “we aim to give them an amazing experience from the time they enter to the time they receive their certificate and photographs. They will be our event ambassadors for the years to come and will be given entry preference each year.”
The community involvement forms a major part of this event and micro-enterprise from the Molweni Township have been included to help add value for all residents. The run will go through parts of the township so that athletes can experience all aspects of Africa. Two young athletes from the Inanda Athletic club will be fully kitted out by event sponsor Salomon, and their entry fee paid for, while a resident group of industrious women will manufacture the goody bags for the entrants. Finishers of the event will receive beaded artwork made by local residents as well; adding to the value the event brings to the local community.
Athlete safety is a major concern with an event of this nature and all precautions will be in place to ensure immediate attention to an athlete should they need it. RescueTech have been brought on board as the Medical Service Provider, in addition to the 15 roving safety marshalls who will monitor the athlete’s well being in 2km sections. Communication is directly to the operation centre, which will co-ordinate all activities. Directional marshalls will be local residents and man the points as needed.
The event is set to create a major talking point amongst the community and those fortunate enough to experience it. There will be other events on the weekend of the 3rd & 4th May 2014, such as the Mini-Molweni for Kids. Spectators are welcome and will be directed to specific ideal viewing points for both safety and logistical reasons.
Athletes can enter at www.molwenitrailrun.co.za as soon as entries open on the 1st October.
Final event details; Event Director, Graham Daniel can be contacted on 0827456708 or .
