The Cape Crusade 2025

A Three-Day Trail Adventure in Elgin Grabouw

What is The Cape Crusade?

The Cape Crusade Trail Run is not just a race; it’s a celebration of nature, community, and adventure.

Held in the stunning Elgin Valley, this three-day multi-day trail event takes runners through some of South Africa’s most beautiful landscapes, including towering mountains, rolling hills, and breathtaking views.

Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or new to the sport, the Crusade offers something for everyone: unforgettable trails, friendly competition, and a chance to form lasting friendships.

The Lead-Up: Excitement Builds at the Start Line

On Friday, we arrived at the event, with Chucky and I joining four other teams of two for a weekend full of running and laughter.

We parked our cars at the farm and hopped on a bus to the Elgin Railway Market, where the race would begin.

From the moment we arrived, the excitement was palpable. The atmosphere buzzed with energy—so much so that Bapoo and Jalal almost missed the start gun!

The anticipation was high, and the scenery was set to impress.

The race kicked off on the railway lines, with a surreal twist—while running, we heard a voice over the loudspeakers telling us we were trespassing.

Talk about a dystopian start to an adventure!

This moment set the tone for the whole weekend—unpredictable, quirky, and full of adventure.

Stage 1: Rolling Hills and Orchard Trails

Friday’s route introduced us to the magical landscapes of Elgin.

The trail meandered through apple orchards, pine forests, and rolling hills, offering beautiful views that helped us forget the muscle fatigue setting in.

The race wasn’t just a challenge—it was an immersive experience where the landscape became part of the story.

The communal vibe was already in full swing by the time we crossed the finish line at the Elgin Grabouw Country Club.

Here, the team came together to enjoy a well-deserved and substantial lasagna.

The food was an absolute highlight—fueling us for the tough days ahead.

Basecamp: Where the Magic Happens

At the Crusade Basecamp, we slept in comfortable glamping tents, where we could relax after a day of running.

It was a great way to unwind and connect with other runners, making the experience feel more like a holiday than a competition.

The vibe at Basecamp was infectious—our group bonded over hearty meals and fire-lit conversations.

The highlight was the incredible chicken pot pie served for dinner that night and steak cooked to perfection on the second, which was the perfect comfort food after a day on the trails.

We were truly living our best lives!

Stage 2: The Real Challenge Begins

Saturday’s run, a more challenging leg, featured steep climbs and technical terrain. Chucky and I were feeling strong and fueled by the enthusiasm around us.

The energy from the other runners kept us going, especially during those tough uphill stretches. We felt like we were in a race but also part of something bigger—like one big trail-running party.

On the course, first-time trail runners like Banoe and Ellen, and Zonke and Caryn, stunned us all by taking 2nd and 3rd in their team categories, respectively.

Shanaaz and Bev also secured podium finishes in their solo categories. Their success was such an inspiration to everyone.

The Picnic: Trail Running with Friends

One of the most memorable parts of the weekend was our Saturday afternoon picnic.

After our run, we gathered with friends to enjoy each other’s company.

We pooled our snacks—and boiled some carbonated water for tea (it sounds weird, but trust me, it worked!).

This laid-back afternoon was a perfect metaphor for the spirit of the race. It was a time to laugh, share stories, and appreciate the friendships that had formed during the weekend.

Stage 3: The Gantouw Pass and A Historical Descent

Sunday’s stage was the crown jewel of the weekend. The highlight was running through the Gantouw Pass, Wagon Trail a UNESCO World Heritage site.

As we descended, we could feel the history beneath our feet.

This pass was used during The Groot Trek, when ox-drawn wagons cut deep grooves into the rock. It was incredible to run through this part of South Africa’s history, with panoramic views that made every step worth it.

Running down the Gantouw Pass felt like a privilege. The landscape was mesmerizing, and the history of the place added depth to the experience. This was not just about running; it was about being part of something much bigger.

The Team Spirit

When we crossed the finish line on Sunday we felt a profound sense of accomplishment. But the best part of the weekend wasn’t the race itself—it was the shared journey.

Whether it was the podium finishes, the laughs on the trail, or the impromptu picnic, the Crusade was a reminder of why we do this: the joy, the community, and the bond of friendship.

Shout-Outs and Special Mentions

To The Two Sues—Suad and Soraya—you absolutely crushed your first trail run. Here’s to many more.

To Banoe, Ellen, Zonke, and Caryn, your podium finishes were so well-earned. What an achievement!

To Shanaaz and Bev, your determination was inspiring. You both smashed your solo categories.

To Rashaad, Dawood, Lindsey & her Unicorns, Bapoo, Jalal, Mushtaq, and Veena, you were the heartbeat of this weekend. The camaraderie was infectious.