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19km Half Marathon

An accessible yet rewarding introduction to Swartberg trail running, featuring the best highlights in a manageable distance. Perfect for trail running newcomers and families. The 19km is open to participants 16years and older.

80 spots available for the 19km Half Marathon - Register now!

Start Time

09:00

Elevation

796m+

Cut-off

5 hours (14:00)

ITRA Points

1

Start

Groenfontein Retreat

Finish

Groenfontein Retreat

Start Venue Details

Groenfontein Retreat

Groenfontein Valley, Swartberg Mountains, Klein Karoo

Start Time: 09:00
Expected Temperature: 12-18°C

Convenient Start & Finish

  • • Start and finish at the same location
  • • No shuttle transport required
  • • Registration available on race day
  • • Family-friendly atmosphere

Route Information

Powered by Trace de Trail

Route Description

An accessible yet rewarding introduction to Swartberg trail running, featuring the best highlights in a manageable distance. Perfect for trail running newcomers and families.

Terrain Breakdown

Flowing single track70%
Jeep track5%
Moderate climbs15%

Key Highlights

Scenic mountain views
Mixed terrain
Beautiful rivers and dams
Family-friendly

Perfect for Trail Running Beginners

Moderate single track climbs
Gentle technical sections

Aid Stations & Support

Groenfontein Start

0km

Groenfontein Retreat

WaterElectrolytesMedical SupportRegistrationToiletsEnergy snacksShelter

Valley Waterpoint

12km

Retreat Valley

WaterElectrolytesEnergy Snacks

Groenfontein Retreat Finish

19km

Groenfontein Retreat

Full mealMedical supportCelebration areaFamily areaShowersDrinks

Key Information for 19km Half Marathon

Race Base Location

The main race base for all weekend activities is Groenfontein Retreat. This is where you'll find race headquarters, start line, finish line celebrations, and the main hub for all race activities.

Perfect for Beginners & Families

The 19km Half Marathon offers the perfect introduction to trail running with accessible terrain, generous cutoff times, and a family-friendly atmosphere at the same start/finish location.

Accommodation & Pre-Race Stay

Recommended Accommodation

For the 19km Mountain Marathon, we recommend staying at the Groenfontein Retreat or at other accommodation providers in the Groenfontein Valley or Calitzdorp. From Calitzdorp it is a 15km drive on dirt roads to the start line

Groenfontein Retreat Benefits

  • Start and finish at the same location
  • Race headquarters and registration
  • Post-race celebrations and amenities
  • Family-friendly environment

Booking Information

  • Contact accommodation partners directly
  • Mention "Black Mountain Ultra" when booking
  • Book early - limited availability for race weekend

Perfect for Families: Groenfontein Retreat offers family-friendly accommodation with easy access to all race activities and post-race celebrations.

Additional Accommodation Options

Alternative Accommodation

For additional accommodation options in the Klein Karoo region, our team can assist with bookings at various partner establishments that offer convenient access to the race area.

Booking Assistance

Contact our accommodation specialist for personalised assistance with finding the perfect place to stay for your race weekend.

What We Can Help With

  • Guest house and B&B recommendations
  • Farm stay accommodation options
  • Budget-friendly accommodation
  • Group booking coordination
  • Local area recommendations

Personalised Service: Our accommodation specialist knows the Klein Karoo region well and can match you with the perfect accommodation based on your preferences, budget, and group size.

Transport to the Race Start

No Shuttles available

Maximum Convenience

  • Same start and finish location at Groenfontein Retreat
  • No early morning shuttle departures required
  • Sleep in and enjoy a relaxed race morning
  • Perfect for families and first-time trail runners

Race Day Timeline: Registration opens at 07:00, with the race starting at 09:00. Plenty of time for a relaxed morning routine.

Self-Drive & Parking

Parking Information

  • Ample parking available at Groenfontein Retreat
  • Secure parking for race participants
  • Easy access to start line and facilities

Arrival Recommendation: Arrive at least 30 minutes before race start for parking, final preparations, and a relaxed start to your trail running experience.

Drop Bags & Logistics

Finish Line Drop Bags

As the 19km race starts and finishes at the same location (Groenfontein Retreat), traditional drop bags are not necessary. You can leave items in your accommodation or vehicle.

  • Leave items in your accommodation room
  • Secure vehicle parking available
  • Easy access to post-race clothing and gear
  • No transport logistics required

Groenfontein Retreat

What you can expect for the 19km half marathon

  • Comprehensive aid station support provided
  • Manageable distance for carrying personal nutrition
  • Finish line food and entertainment
  • Simplified race day logistics

Nutrition Strategy: Plan your nutrition strategy around the aid stations.

There is no compulsory gear check for the 19km half marathon but the following gear is required.

Critical for your own safety

Please carry the compulsory gear with you at all times to avoid disqualification.

Safety Equipment

  • First aid kit
  • Space blanket
  • Emergency Whistle
  • Mobile Phone

Hydration & Nutrition

  • Minimum 1.5L water capacity
  • Electrolyte replacement capability

Weather Protection

  • Windproof jacket
  • Waterproof jacket with hood

There will be no gear check

  • Random spot checks will be conducted.
  • Avoid disqualification

Gear is for your own safety

  • Compulsory gear is to ensure your own safety on the mountains

Entry Fees & Additional Costs

Entry Fees

Early Bird

Until 31 October 2025

R1,050

Regular

1 November - 25 March 2026

R1,450

Additional Charges

Great Value: The 19km Half Marathon offers excellent value with no additional charges required.

What's Included in Your Entry

Race Day Essentials

Breakfast

Race day breakfast snacks will be available from 07:00am

Technical T-Shirt

Premium technical race t-shirt with 19km Half Marathon design

Aid Station Support

Nutrition and hydration support

Finish Line Experience

Goodie Bag

Trail runner goodie bag

Finisher's Prize

finisher's prize

Celebration Meal

Klein Karoo celebration meal and entertainment

Perfect Trail Running Introduction

Start your trail running journey with the accessible yet rewarding 19km Half Marathon through the beautiful Swartberg Mountains. Perfect for families and beginners.

Enter Now

Early bird pricing ends 31 October 2025