Madikwa, Gagiano conquer the Old Mutual Wild Series Kruger2Canyon Challenge
Muzi Madikwa has won the rugged two-day Kruger2Canyon, seeing off a thrilling challenge from several top trail runners.
The combined 72km course took runners through pristine areas around Kampersrus on the northernmost tip of the Drakensberg escarpment at the weekend. Runners sighted wild dog, giraffe and honey badger, among other animals, along the route.
The women’s category was dominated by Carine Gagiano, who won by more than 30 minutes.
The men’s category was highly competitive, with youngsters from the “Change A Life” Academy and the newly formed Old Mutual Development Team challenging the established stars.
Madikwa won the men’s category in an overall time of 06:53:57. He was followed home by Nomore Mandivengerei in 07:01:07 and the third spot went to Bennie Roux from the Nedbank running club in 07:02:24. Both Madikwa and Roux recently completed the Comrades Marathon.
The Old Mutual Wild Series Golden Gate Challenge winner Wandisile Nongodlwana won the second stage to finish fourth overall. “I took it easy on day one and the young blood awakened my competitive spirit for day two,” Nongodlwana said afterwards.
Gagiano won the women’s category in 08:28:03. Second was Naomi Brand in 09:15:32 and Lawrette McFarlane finished third in 09:36:23.
The opening 42km stage explored the Mariepskop Trails in the vicinity of the Blyde River Canyon. The 28km second stage took place in the Blue Canyon Conservancy, a Big Four reserve which lies adjacent to the Kruger National Park.
Race director Andrew Booth said: “Don’t underestimate the challenge that this event poses. Each and every individual that crossed the finish line has achieved something great on a personal level while contributing to conservation.”
The Old Mutual Wild Series events take part in protected areas that runners would not be able to access normally. The funds raised through the staging of the events go towards the conservation of these unique landscapes and natural heritage.
For more information on the Old Mutual Wild Series events, log onto www.wildseries.co.za or www.morethanyourself.co.za to become a fundraiser.
