GEORGE NEWS – With just over a week to go before the Southern Cross (Sox) three-day trail run gets underway, organisers have announced a new partnership with George Tourism and George Municipality to help showcase the region as one of South Africa's premier outdoor adventure destinations.
The partnership comes as the countdown continues to the popular three-day trail running event, which takes place from Friday 7 to Sunday 9 August and is based at the Fairy Knowe Hotel in Wilderness.
The organising team from Trisport say the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to promoting everything that makes the George region unique.
Over three days, runners from across South Africa will experience some of the area’s most spectacular scenery, from the rugged Outeniqua Mountains and ancient indigenous forests to the pristine Wilderness coastline.
Organisers said that the event also delivers valuable tourism and economic benefits to local businesses, accommodation establishments and the broader community.
They thanked George Tourism and George Municipality for supporting the event and helping showcase the Garden Route to athletes and their families.
The Sox Trail Run has earned a reputation as one of South Africa's most diverse multi-day trail running events, offering participants access to trails that are seldom open to the public.
The event offers two race formats: the three-day Sox Full and the shorter Sox Sport, allowing runners of varying abilities to experience the Garden Route on foot.
The opening stage takes runners into the Outeniqua Mountains near George, featuring rugged single-track trails and challenging climbs.
Day two moves into the indigenous forests around Rheenendal, where runners follow winding SANParks trails beneath towering trees.
The final stage traces the Wilderness coastline before finishing with the iconic crossing of the floating bridge over the Touw River and ending at the Fairy Knowe Hotel.
For runners unable to commit to the full three-day event, organisers also offer a stand-alone trail run on Sunday 9 August over either a 12km or 16km coastal route.
The event is limited to 300 entrants, creating an intimate race experience while ensuring participants can enjoy the area's sensitive natural environments responsibly.
Entry includes conservation permits, well-stocked water tables, medical support, finisher's medals, meals at the finish venues and access to the race village at the Fairy Knowe Hotel.
The race village will once again host daily prize-givings, social gatherings, massage facilities, food vendors and entertainment, allowing runners to unwind and share their experiences after each stage.
With the partnership now in place and preparations in their final stages, organisers say they are looking forward to welcoming athletes and their supporters to an unforgettable weekend of trail running while showcasing the very best of George and the Garden Route.
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