About 140 participants took part in the first Gondwana Moonraker Ridge Trail Run just outside Windhoek on Saturday, 17 September 2022. The starting gun for the longer distances went off promptly at 7 a.m. at the Moonraker Outdoor Adventure Restcamp, followed by a staggered start of the 5km fun run.
The 20, 10 and 5km trails led over challenging terrain, through riverbeds, valleys and over hills, sometimes even cross-country. Two runners in the 20 km distance phrased it like this: "It felt like it was uphill all the way."
Despite the strenuous route the runners of the 20 km race remained in good spirits.
While the runners followed the well-marked trails in the 2000 hectare nature reserve, their non-running family members and companions treated themselves to a delicious cup of coffee at the Moonraker Restcamp. Walking around the farm, the children were delighted to see the many animals that call it home and generously gave out pats. Those who were brave enough were allowed to take a turn on horseback.
Some farm animals were out early in the morning, eyeing the runners curiously.
It didn't take long for the first runners to arrive at the finish line. The top three women and men in the 10 and 20km runs received generous value vouchers from Gondwana Collection Namibia. Detailed information and results of the Gondwana Moonraker Ridge Trail Run can be found here. The participants of the 5km fun run participated in a lucky draw for the Gondwana value vouchers.
The winners of the 20km men’s race: Frans Amakali (3rd), Willie van Zyl (1st) and Jaco van den Berg (2nd).
A big thank you goes to our co-sponsors: SPAR Namibia, who provided water, refreshments and helpers for the water points, as well as ten shopping vouchers worth N$250.00 each which were raffled among all participants; Nova 103.5, as media partner, provided entertainment and good humor with its live broadcast and music; and OSH-Med international was on hand for medical emergencies. The Moonraker team provided food and drink and a relaxed social gathering after the race. Many thanks also to all the other helpers who contributed to the success of the first Gondwana Moonraker Ridge Trail Run.
“We are very grateful and also surprised that so many runners joined our first ever Gondwana Moonraker Ridge Trail Run,” says Jes Bekker, Gondwana’s Group Brand & Marketing Manager. “We are happy that all in all, the event ran smoothly and all runners arrived safely at the finish line. We experienced some organizational challenges and are ready to improve on them for next year's trail run.”
A live band contributed to the entertainment with good music.
Moonraker Outdoor Adventure Restcamp offers fun and relaxation for the whole family. Whether it's hiking, bird watching, mule rides, mountain biking or meeting and petting farm animals, there's plenty to keep you busy. Day visitors are welcome, and overnight stays are also available. Moonraker is located 20 km east of Windhoek at the foot of the picturesque Auas Mountains.
If you plan to visit Moonraker Outdoor Adventure Restcamp, please book 24 hours in advance.
Tel. +264 81 836 4006 | contact@moonraker-farm.com