This historic race has a well-balanced route with a few hills, all in the right places. You run out of the town onto the Memel Road to Ingogo and back. The first section is run on tar and incorporates a climb of about seven kilometres. There is some respite however as the following 10 kilometres are flat and the running is easy and relaxed. Here you can really enjoy the mountains, fresh air and the race’s natural surroundings. At the 17-kilometre marker the route turns onto a sand road for about eight kilometres.

Along this stretch lie the silent gravesites of the fallen heroes of the Schuinshoogte Battle. This is a good spot to pause and reflect. Before the turning point at Ingogo there is a monster of a hill which goes on for a punishing two kilometres. This is followed by a steep downhill stretch to the Ingogo River where you steel yourself for the return journey to Newcastle. All other races are on the same route with different turning points.

There is a swimming pool at the venue and ample accommodation for out-of-town runners.