Kalahari Augrabies Extreme Marathon
Kalahari Augrabies Extreme Marathon
Press Release / 05.11.2008
The Kalahari Augrabies Extreme Marathon, fondly referred to as the ‘Big Daddy’ of Trail Running in South Africa was held this year from the 11 – 17October. This prestigious event is a 250km, 7-day self-sufficiency run held annually in the Augrabies region of the Kalahari Desert.The 20 participants on the start line this year were from South Africa, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, China, Taiwan and Canada. The temperatures on Day 1 & 2 reached the mid-40’s with humidity levels effectively adding another 5 degrees. Richard Weremiuk from the UK described Day 2 as ‘an oven door opening with not a breath of air’. Much to the runners’ relief, a slight breeze helped them through Day 3. As always during the long day, a staggered start with the faster participants leaving at 13:00, ensured that everyone experienced the Kalahari night with a full moon; a moon so bright that not even torches were necessary!
Of the 20 starters, 14 made it to the finish line. Not only was Alex Stuart from Australia the youngest participant ever but also took first place with an accumulated time of 31hrs36min. Lynne Simpson from South Africa is the only person to have completed the event 6 times. Tim Doyle, originally from South Africa and now living in Canada, came back to conquer the desert on his 3rd attempt. Malene and Roy Tolfts from South Africa stayed together every step of the way. Roy had previously finished Augrabies twice and this year came back to complete it with wife Malene.
The 10th edition of this event will be held on 02 October 2009 and will be limited to 100 participants.See All Event Posts
