2014 La Capra Goat run - 28km

If I had my wits about me I wouldn’t have entered this race, because it’s held on the same weekend as Gun Run – but with the pre-booking that trail running events require, I really wasn’t thinking that well ahead. Boy am I glad for that mistake. Taking a break from Gun Run to take part in this race was definitely the better choice (made knowingly or not).
The La Capra Goat Run (and in particular the 28km) offers a very unique setting amongst the rock formations in and around Paarl. Everything about the experience was top notch – particularly the organization.
Pictures are worth a thousand words, so here are some:
The first 8km or so is very up and down, so it’s wise to pace yourself. I was comfortably at the back of the pack for the first 5km, until I started passing some very tired looking legs.

Some of the sections are really steep – good places to “power hike” ie: walk

There are 1 or 2 water points along the way – but it’s best to assume none. Thankfully it wasn’t too hot.


After “The Wall” at roughly 8km, there’s about 10km of fairly easy undulating jeep track. Save your energy here – “The Beast” is coming!


Some of the unique scenery – HUGE protea bushes amongst rock outcroppings.

First glimpse of the “Paarl Rock”

up, up, up!!!

at the top


… then down, down, down (eina quads!!)

2km of flat before the last 3km which is steep downhill.

…. and thankfully there’s a tractor ride back to the car – legs are busted