Unleash the Explorer Within at the 2024 K-Way SkyRun

South Africa’s premier ultra-trail race, the K-Way SkyRun, returns this November, marking its 28th year of pushing athletes to their absolute limits. Known as the oldest trail run in South Africa, SkyRun is not just a race—it's a journey of self-discovery, where participants test their endurance in one of the most challenging and beautiful mountain terrains in the world.

The K-Way SkyRun stands out globally as one of the few ultra-races where the longest route, the gruelling 100km, attracts more entrants than its shorter counterparts. This phenomenon places SkyRun in an elite category with legendary races such as UTMB, Western States, and Hardrock, where the spirit of adventure drives competitors to conquer the ultra-distance.

“For almost three decades, SkyRun has been a pure test of an athlete’s determination and resilience,” says Race Director, Adrian Saffy. “It’s about getting back to the roots of trail and mountain running, stripping away distractions, and unleashing the explorer within. It’s a race where you’re forced to navigate and support yourself, which brings out the true essence of adventure and self-reliance.”

SkyRun's rich history dates back to December 31, 1991, when John Michael Tawse first traversed the Witteberg mountain range from Lady Grey to the Wartrail Country Club. Over the years, this pioneering spirit has attracted hundreds of runners who return year after year, determined to conquer the course. Since 2005, under the guidance of Adrian Saffy and Michael de Haast from Pure Adventures, the race has continued to grow in stature while staying true to its origins: a fully self-supported, self-navigational race that requires both mental and physical grit.

What makes the 2024 race even more exciting is the return of multiple past champions, eager to etch their names into SkyRun history once again. Previous winners include trail legends such as Ryan Sandes, Ian Don-Wauchope, Lucky Miya, Jeannie Dreyer, Nicolette Griffioen, AJ Calitz, Simon Tshabalala, and Simone Malan.

One notable exception to the South African dominance came in 2020 when international elite runner Pere Aurell Bove claimed the men’s title, while his partner, Ragna Debats, set a new record in the women’s category with a time of 14 hours, 21 minutes, and 23 seconds—securing third place overall.

What sets SkyRun apart is its unique format: competitors must carry all their own gear and navigate the unmarked course using GPS, ensuring that only the most prepared and determined runners reach the finish line. This race is about much more than speed—it's about strategy, resilience, and the ability to endure in one of the most rugged landscapes South Africa has to offer.

The 2024 edition promises to be an unforgettable event, with athletes from all over the country and beyond coming together to face the ultimate test of endurance and self-reliance.

For more information, visit www.skyrun.co.za .

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