The Harties Loop is the first ever around-the-dam ultra. With a distance of 80km and 3500m on foot around on Magalies Terrain, it's going to be tough!
The main event, the 80km trail run boasting a challenging 3500m of vertical ascent, commences at the break of dawn on Saturday at 04h00. With a 20-hour cut-off, you'll have ample time to take on this epic journey around the beautiful Hartbeespoort Dam.
The race begins with a flat and fast 10km stretch through the eastern side of Hartbeespoort town, perfect for warming up your muscles and gearing up for the adventure that lies ahead. This portion promises an engaging mix of trail and tarmac running.
Cross the old railway bridge, and gear yourself for the ascent up the Harties River Hiking Trail hill, leading to your first aid station at the Harties River Hiking Trails. This is the first of seven aid stations along the route, ensuring you're well-supported throughout your journey.
Your route will then guide you through a tunnel crossing the R512 and into the unexplored territory of Blue Groove. Expect a challenging climb before you traverse the range on an open jeep track, leading west to Van Gaalen’s intriguing Pofadder Trails.
Having explored the Pofadder trails, you'll make your descent to the halfway point at the charming Van Gaalen Cheese Farm. Following a revitalizing stop, prepare to scale the iconic Vulture Pass. Upon reaching the summit, your route will head east through Vergenoeg trails and onto a ridgeline offering a challenging yet rewarding technical run.
As you descend and near Magalies Park, you'll cross under the R512 bridge and start your ascent up Tower Hill, followed by a brief 1-2 km traverse east. Your efforts are rewarded as you make your way up the tough Kosmos hill, revealing the best panoramic views of the dam.
After a thrilling descent off Kosmos Hill, you'll have the unique experience of running across the dam wall. Brace yourself for the ascent into Uitkyk trails, before facing the final challenge: the back of Iron Throne and the Cable Way. This last stretch will take you further east before a triumphant descent to the finish line back at Villa Paradiso.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/d095ea_d4d8a018c68e4776b0392ac054b3ccc4~mv2.png
