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An early Saturday morning saw runners huddled together deep in the Knysna Forest as they waited their turn to get going in the Momentum Knysna Forest Marathon and half marathon event. The excitement and hope in the air was palpable as runners came together to support Knysna in its relief efforts. Dignitaries joined the runners at the start to wish them well.

Giving Back To Fire Victims

With Knysna and the surrounding areas severely affected by runaway fires, the Momentum Knysna Forest Marathon was geared to help those who lost their possessions as a result.

With the early morning start usually bitterly cold the runners have a long-standing tradition of wearing warm clothing to the start and then leaving it behind to be collected and donated along with the 2,000 blankets that Momentum donates. Truck-loads of warm blankets and clothes are then driven to local communities and distributed to those in need. These items were put to good use and came in handy this year, after the fires.

Spectacular Views And Scenery

As one of South Africa’s most sought-after running events, the Momentum Knysna Forest Marathon offers some of the country’s most spectacular natural scenery in and around the Knysna Forest, offering several highlights unique to its location.

Much of the race took place in the famed forest area, with breath-taking views of the lagoon and the spectacular Knysna Heads for inspiration towards the finish at the Festival Grounds.

Marathon and half marathon Winners

The full marathon was won in dramatic style by Mzwanele Maphekula in an earth-shattering 2:34.09. In the half marathon Nkosinathi Mdau took the win in the Men’s category in 1:09.52 while Vicky van der Merwe synched the Women’s race in 1:23.03 ahead of Melissa van Rensberg. This is certainly one run that many are eager to return to do again in 2018, and with the race being oversubscribed and entries sold out each year, be sure you don’t miss out. Visit knysnamarathon.com for more information.