Update

GEORGE NEWS - The MUT by UTMB has wrapped up another milestone edition in George, and the organisers deemed the 2026 event one defined by strong international growth and standout performances across the board.

Held from Friday to Sunday, 29 to 31 May, the event once again trans-formed the Outeniqua Mountains into a world-class trail running stage, despite the recent severe weather that had left significant damage across sections of the route.

A defining feature of the 2026 edition was the performance of the female athletes - women had placed in the top five overall across all three longest distances.

Among the standout performances was local runner Lodelia Kombrink's, who won the women's MUT Miler and finished fourth overall, while Kerry-Ann Marshall, winner of the MUT 100, secured fifth place overall in her race. 

Another local athlete, Rebecca Kohne, claimed victory in the MUT 60 and also finished fifth overall in that event.

In the men's MUT Miler, Tahirinirina Jeannot Avontraniaina of Madagascar took the win.

The men's MUT 100 title went to Daniel Claassen, while Jacques Buys was crowned the winner in the MUT 60.

"We're extremely proud of how the event has unfolded. It's been an honour to welcome the international community to George and to showcase the strength, spirit and potential of this region," race director Zane Schmahl said.

This year also saw the largest ever field in the MUT Miler, alongside an increase in international participation, with athletes from across Europe, Africa, the USA and beyond competing at the front of the race.

Louise Botha (right) completed her first MUT Miler this year. She is pictured with her coach, Colleen Browne, after finishing the race. Photo: Robin Pick

David Kats was announced as volunteer of the year. Photo: Robin Pick

Travis Oosthuizen is a local young athlete who competed in the MUT Challenge. Photo: Robin Pick‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’