With 7 000 athletes already signed up to experience the magic of the SPAR Knysna Forest Marathon, the 38th running of the Garden Route race is shaping up to be a memorable one.
The marathon (42.2km) and half marathon (21.1km) events, renowned for taking participants deep into the forest and offering breathtaking views of the estuary and Knysna Heads, take place on July 8 this year.
That it occurs in the domain of the legendary Knysna elephant makes it even more special. While no runner has ever caught sight of the elusive pachyderms, dung found along the route from time-to-time points to their presence.
“We are expecting runners from all over the country, including the Western Cape, Gauteng and Eastern Cape,” organiser Baily Neill said. “So many people are drawn to the race because about 90 per cent of it is run through the forest.”
Entries have already exceeded last year’s total of 6 500, telling the story of how popular the marathon has once again become in the wake of the pandemic.
At the heart of the 2023 event is its tradition of benefiting others. Beneficiaries this year are the Vermont Old Age Home, Loeriehof Old Age Home, Knysna Epilepsy Centre and Sinethemba Youth Development Centre.
Besides the four charities, there are many others who benefit too.
