Genadendal SkyRace® - 2 September 2023

The oldest mission station in South Africa, Genadendal (meaning Valley of Grace) in the Overberg District in the Western Cape dates back to 1738. That is where this inaugural leg of the 2023 South African SkyRace® Series started and finished – either end of traversing the Genadendal Hiking Trail.

Remote in its location and somewhat unexplored by trail runners, the trail, as well as the old church square and station of the original settlements of Genadendal in some ways reflected off each other - both in what racing trails means for so many, and for what the station stood for all those years back in the message of the Gospel of Jesus and what that means for the race of life we all run in one way or another.

It was a privilege to be back in Genadendal, and just so special to start and finish a race in the peace and solitude in the heart of this old mission station - no matter what race we are running! Enjoy this Tale:

Boasting two significant climbs, the two-day Genadendal Hiking Trail covers around 1500 metres of accumative ascent in just 24 kilometres; over some challenging and technical terrain underfoot, making this a hard yet fast and exciting route!

Situated in the Riviersonderend Mountain Catchment Area, the trail traverses up and over the massif above, with views of the Robertson Valley to the north, below.

Meanwhile, in the oldest known church square in South Africa, supporters Josiah and Jethro await their dad...

The second and more steep descent of the two rewards one with sweeping views of the Caledon valley to the south above, and now expansive town of Genadendal, below.

Running a race is rewarding, yet finishing a race is always more special.

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