Description
Trail Running: 100 km, 44 km, 22 km, 12 km, 5 km EVENT DESCRIPTION The Rock Ultra is a rugged gravel run in a mountain environment, set on the slopes of Paarl Mountain and starting and finishing at the iconic Afrikaans Language Monumen t. Defined by granite terrain, fynbos, and open mountain slopes, this event offers a fast-moving trail running experience across a mix of jeep track, singletrack, and technical sections. The routes are designed to flow, climb, and challenge — rewarding runners who can adapt to the rhythm of the mountain. From accessible short distances to a demanding overnight ultra, The Rock Ultra creates space for every level of runner to engage with the mountain in a meaningful way. Celebrate your best year on the mountain at TRU, 4–5 December 2026. DISTANCES 100km – The Rock Ultra (TRU100) An overnight ultra across exposed mountain terrain requiring endurance and resilience - 25 hour cut-off 44km – The Rock Marathon (TRU44) A full marathon distance across the granite slopes of Paarl Mountain - focus, rhythm and consistency - 11 hour cut-off 22km – The Boulder Challenge (TRU22) A bold and rewarding mid-distance challenge, this route balances effort and flow across the slopes of Paarl Mountain - 6 hour cut-off 12km – The Boulder Lite (TRU12) (New distance) It’s a chance to move freely, take in the landscape, and enjoy the mountain, hiking friendly - 4.5 hour cut-off 5km – The Klippie (TRU5) A meaningful motivation to move with the Anna Foundation's young athletes and your favourite people - 2 hour cut-off WHAT’S INCLUDED TRU100 – The Rock Ultra (100km) Finisher medal Event socks Event short sleeve t-shirt Event running cap Meal voucher (Race village) Finish line beer / non-alcoholic drink Massage voucher (Recovery tent) Drop bag service TRU44 – The Rock Marathon (44km) Finisher medal Event socks Event short sleeve t-shirt Light meal voucher (Race village) Finish line beer / non-alcoholic drink TRU22 – The Boulder Challenge (22km) Finisher medal Event socks Event running cap Finish line beer / non-alcoholic drink TRU12 – The Boulder Lite (12km) - New Distance Finisher medal Event socks Finish line beer / non-alcoholic drink TRU5 – The Klippie (5km) Medal Fun giveaways All proceeds go to the Anna Foundation THE EXPERIENCE The race village at the Taal Monument creates a central gathering point on the mountain. Expect: Fast, runnable sections combined with rugged terrain Community-crewed aid stations bringing energy and support to the route A clean, open mountain setting A grounded, authentic atmosphere with a strong celebratory feel This is a trail running event shaped by terrain, community, and shared experience. WHO IT’S FOR Families, walkers, and young runners — The Klippie (5km) New trail runners and short-distance runners — 5km & 12km Intermediate runners — 22km & 44km Experienced ultra runners — 100km ADD-ONS Optional items available during entry: Event short sleeve t-shirt Event long sleeve shirt Event running cap Event socks 100km pacer entry Anna Foundation donation IMPORTANT INFORMATION Spectator access to the race village at the Afrikaans Language Monument is subject to a R20 entrance fee Spectators will receive an event wristband Runners gain access with their race number Entries are limited and priced in phases: Early Bird (closes 30 June 2026 or at 25% capacity) Standard Entry Late Entry (from 22 November 2026) ITRA-LISTED The Rock Ultra is an ITRA-listed race, meaning it is officially recognised by the International Trail Running Association. Runners who complete the longer distances can earn ITRA Performance Index points and qualifying credits used for entry into other major international trail events. This recognition reflects the quality of the course, organisation, and mountain environment, and places The Rock Ultra within the global trail running landscape. ETHOS The Rock Ultra is built on respect: Respect for the environment Respect for the community Respect for the landowners Participants are expected to follow a leave-no-trace approach at all times. FINAL NOTE This is a mountain-first event — rugged, honest, and rewarding. If you are looking for a fast, natural trail running experience on Paarl Mountain, and a chance to celebrate the journey, you’ll find it here. RACE RULES AND INFO ARE NOW AVAILABLE HERE SCHEDULE IS AVAILABLE HERE