The Merrell Whale of Trail has a notorious beach section, about 30km into the race, that can quite literally stop you in your tracks. Whether you’re running to win or just to survive, the beach section will slow you down, test your strength and most of all, your mental stability. Despite sounding treacherous, it is also one of the most beautiful parts of the run, and the 5km stretch of unspoilt, pristine sandy beach will… Continue reading
Sitting on the fence about entering the Merrell Whale of Trail? Five finishers from the last three year’s chat a bit about why they wouldn’t think twice before entering again, and what they got out of their experience running the 53km through De Hoop Nature Reserve. Listening to their reasons it becomes apparent how the beauty of an area has the ability to entice people back for more! This is what they had to say.… Continue reading
The Merrell Whale of Trail entry fee is exclusive of accommodation – which gives you the freedom to book a bed that suits your needs and pocket! On a first-come-first-book type basis, and with roughly four months to go before the 2017 Whale of Trail, accommodation options are dwindling. Don’t be caught having to sleep in your car, which a) is never recommended before a 53km ultra and b) isn’t actually allowed, and book… Continue reading
So often trail runners steer clear of entering ultras, often due to a combination of a fear of the unknown and self-doubt. The Merrell Whale of Trail is certainly made up of a variation of types of terrain; the first half winds through fynbos covered mountains before descending to the enchanting Noetsie Bay and finally turns west and homewards along the rocky shores of the Indian Ocean, with a mix of sandy beach and coastal… Continue reading
