Magnetic South offices are currently inundated by a surge of enquires relating to the Southern Storm.  These “Storm Chasers” are desperate to be part of the few that get to experience this atmospheric and historic event first hand, and are enquiring about being assured of a place in the event.  It appears that the twin appeal of being able to combine trail running and mountain biking (duathlon) in the same multi-day event on trails still ‘virgin’ to Trail Events, has been underestimated.

The adventurous nature of the route, plus the very strict environmental ethos and protocol dictates the restrictions required in terms of the numbers of participants. As much as we would like to delight all our kindred spirits, the best Magnetic South can do is to offer a fair and equal opportunity to everyone who wants to enter. This will be done on a first come, first serve basis when entries open on the 1st of April 2009 at 12h00 mid day.

The Southern Storm course design is entrenched by a philosophy which places environmental impact and participant safety above all other considerations. The challenge weaves together a balanced route that traverses one of the most spectacular coastal regions on earth, incorporating mountains, beaches, indigenous forest, and fynbos. The route combines spectacular scenery with classic challenge, physical endurance with technical ability, stamina with adventure, and produces a balanced contest between Trail Running and Mountain Biking.

The event opens with a marathon distance trail run along a hiking trail previously out of bounds to trail runners- The Otter Trail- and this is considered the holy grail of trail running. A once in a life time opportunity awaits…. The best 6 days of your multi sport life await, with over 100 kms of trails to run and 250 kms to ride. 

Entries open 1 April 2009 at 12h00 www.magneticsouth.net (and it is no April Fools Joke) !