Bushman's Trail Run

30/01/2026

Please note that Bushman’s Trail Run will not be taking place on 2 - 3 May 2026 as previously advertised as “to be confirmed”.

Estcourt Athletics Club remains affiliated with KZNA for our road runs, however we have decided that we would not like our Trail Run to be sanctioned by KZNA.

We apologize for any disappointment.

We may look at hosting an independent, smaller event later this year. Keep an eye on this page for more information 😊

12/05/2025

Bushmans is Back!
We kicked off a crisp, golden morning with the 30km runners leading the charge into the Bushman's Trail Run — a small but determined bunch, followed by strong fields in the 10km and 20km. Runners were treated to sweeping views of the Bushmans River and Wagendrift Dam, flowing steadily through trails rich in natural beauty and history.

The race village had that unmistakable old Bushman's feel — relaxed, welcoming, and full of character. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and helped breathe life back into this iconic venue.

A special shoutout to our partners at Athletic Club — it was fantastic working with you again! And to Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, thank you for allowing us to explore and celebrate Wagendrift Dam the trail way.

The event wouldn't have been the same without the vibrant energy of our vendors and partners:

☕ Coffee Coach
🌯 Food
🧦Funky Pants
🦓 Honorary Officers
🥖'Artisan Sourdough Bread
👧 Sherlene from Kidzone, for keeping the little ones entertained while the grown-ups hit the trails!

You kept the village buzzing and our runners fueled, geared, and grinning.

To our incredible sponsors — , NBI, Estcourt Athletics Club, Treadwise, AB Richards, and Off the Grid Adventures — thank you for spoiling our runners and supporting this return.

📅 We’re already dreaming of what 2026 could hold!

📊 Preliminary results are live on the KZNTR website. For any queries or feedback, reach out to [email protected].

📸 Photo album available on Facebook!
Until then, see you on the trails!

12/05/2025

10/05/2025

The views are ready and waiting! See you tomorrow 😄

09/05/2025

Weekend loading... 🌿👣
We’re heading to the beautiful Bushmans River this Sunday – and it’s nearly go-time!

🚨 Online entries close at midnight tonight! Avoid the R50 late fee by signing up now:
👉 https://kzntrailrunning.co.za/races/the-bushmans-trail/

📩 Pre-race mailer goes out later this afternoon (and again tomorrow for late entries).
🎉 Don’t forget – enter before 2pm today to be in the running for a FREE entry giveaway! The winner will get their voucher at the event.

🚗 Travel update: Good news! The Ashburton Bridge demolition has been postponed to next weekend. All runners travelling from Ashburton and the coast can use the N3 without delays. More details here:
👉 https://stop-over.co.za/n3-ashburton-bridge-demolition-postponed-to-16-18-may-2025/

09/05/2025

🚨 Course Info Drop – Wagendrift Trail Run 🚨

Get ready to hit the trails! Our routes kick off from Wagendrift Campsite and wind through bushveld, along the dam, and up the scenic Bushman’s River 🌿💧

Here’s the best part: these trails are fast! With only about half the elevation gain of our usual events, it’s the perfect setting for speedsters and first-timers alike. If you’re new to trail running, we recommend sticking to the shorter distances to build your base. 🏃‍♀️🔥

Tackling the longer routes? You’ll head up into the beautiful Moor Park Nature Reserve—packed with epic views and some historical gems we mentioned in an earlier post. Keep an eye out on the southern side of the dam too... some fossilised trees might just make an appearance 👀🌳

🧃 3 stocked aid stations along the route with Coke, fruit, sweets, and water
🥤 No compulsory gear, but please bring your own hydration cup or pack—communal cups will be available but limited

👇 Scroll down for quick course details!
Which distance are you taking on?

Short Course
Distance: 4.94
Elevation gain: 105 m
Aid stations: 1 aid station @ 2.2 km

Average time: 1:02:17
Mens Winner: Sanele Xaba 25:11
Ladies Winner: Sharon Scott 43:01

Medium Course
Distance: 10.6 km
Elevation gain: 267 m
Aid stations: 2 aid stations @ 2.2, & 5.9 km

Average time: 1:28:35
Mens Winner: Shane Jacklin 57:17
Ladies Winner: Jade Harding 1:06:29

Long Course
Distance: 19.9 km
Elevation gain: 483m
Aid stations: 4 aid stations @ 2.2 km, 5.9, 10.3, & 16.2 km

Average time: 2:36:41
Mens Winner: David Lamont 1:43:10
Ladies Winner: Lindi-Jane Janse van Rensburg 1:57:57

Extended Course
Distance:29.7 km
Elevation gain: 718 m
Aid stations: 6 aid stations @ 2.2 km, 5.9, 10.3, 14.4, 19.3, & 25km

Average time: 1:02:17
Mens Winner: Sanele Xaba 25:11
Ladies Winner: Sharon Scott 43:01

https://kzntrailrunning.co.za/races/the-bushmans-trail/

*Courses are subject to change

05/05/2025

The dam is showing off for us. It knows it’s race week 💪🏼

05/05/2025

With just under a week to go, we’re upping the stakes at The Bushmans Trail! 🎉

🌟 Enter online before entries close and stand a chance to win your next standard event FREE!
The lucky winner will be announced in the pre-race mailer going out next Saturday morning.

Don’t delay—secure your spot, skip the late entry fees, and you might just score a freebie too!

We can’t wait to welcome you to the trails at Wagendrift Dam this weekend! 🏃‍♀️🏞️

🔗 https://kzntrailrunning.co.za/races/the-bushmans-trail/

02/05/2025

REMINDER‼️

Avoid late entry fee ‼️‼️

Enter before 9 May 2025 to avoid paying the R50.00 surcharge on the day.

See you soon 😃