Trail Runners Set to Tackle the Crater Traverse this May

Amanda Bekker
Feb 27
2 min read

The local trail running calendar sees a major addition this May as the Crater Traverse arrives at Koedoeslaagte Trail Park. Scheduled for the weekend of 16–17 May 2026, the event offers a mix of multi-day stage racing and single-day runs. Organised with the support of the Parys Multi-Sport Club, the race is an ASA-sanctioned event, meaning participants will need either a permanent licence or a day licence to compete.

The Two-Day Challenges

For those looking to test their endurance over the full weekend, there are two primary options: the Quartzite and the Granite runs.

The Anatomic Quartzite is the flagship event, covering a total of 29km over two days. Early bird entries for this challenge are R780 until 7 April, increasing to R900 for pre-entries before 14 May. Saturday’s opening leg involves 17km with 440m of elevation, while Sunday pushes runners further with 500m of climbing over a 12km route that traverses Koedoe Mountain.

The Anatomic Granite serves as a slightly shorter alternative, priced at R680 for early birds and R800 for pre-entries before 14 May. It covers 14km on Saturday and 7km on Sunday. The Saturday route is designed to be less technical, making it a suitable entry point for road runners looking to transition to the trails.

Single-Day Lekka Runs

Runners who cannot commit to the full weekend can opt for the standalone Lekka Runs. On Saturday, a 14km distance is available for R250 (pre-entry before 14 May) or R300 for late entries. Sunday features a 7km route, costing R180 for pre-entry and R250 for latecomers. The Sunday 7km is particularly accessible, with a minimum age requirement of just eight years, allowing younger athletes to experience the Witkop Mountain trails and the "Happy Hiker" totem pole.

Technical Details and Terrain

The routes at Koedoeslaagte consist of a combination of tertiary gravel roads and purpose-built nature trails. While all climbs are manageable on foot, runners should expect sections with loose rock and gravel. Shade is limited, varying between 20% and 40% depending on the specific route, though water points are stationed at Uitkykpunt and Groot Nek to assist with hydration.

Entries and Licensing

Early bird entries are available until 7 April, offering a discount for the two-day events. Pre-entries for all distances close on 14 May. It is important to note that the Quartzite and Granite stage races do not allow for late entries or entries on race day. However, those interested in the Saturday or Sunday Lekka runs can still enter late, though these entrants will not receive event goodie bags.

Athletes without a permanent licence must purchase a day licence for R70.

Registration and Contact Details: