Race Info

By registering for the Cape Cobra Trail Marathon, hosted by Inyoka Trail Series, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to the following Terms & Conditions.

Race Number / Bib

Your race number must be clearly visible on the front of your body at all times—either pinned to your shirt or attached to a race belt at your waist. It may not be worn on your back, and must always be visible over any clothing or gear. We strongly recommend using a race belt for comfort and ease.

Compulsory Gear

All runners must carry the mandatory gear for the full duration of their race—regardless of distance. Our trails go through diverse terrain, and conditions can change quickly, especially in mountain sections.

Think of this list as your minimum requirement—you’re encouraged to bring additional gear based on your personal needs.

Compulsory gear checks will be done at registration and may be spot-checked during or after the race. Missing items may result in time penalties (15–30 minutes per item).

Mandatory Gear List:

  • Waterproof jacket (with hood & sealed seams)

  • Base layer top (long-sleeve; thermal or technical)

  • Emergency space blanket

  • Headlamp or torch (with spare batteries or power source)

  • Whistle

  • Cell phone (with emergency numbers saved and race route downloaded or accessible)

  • Hydration system (minimum 1L capacity)

  • Nutrition (sufficient fuel between aid stations)

  • Cap, buff or beanie

  • Gloves (for certain routes / if weather forecast requires)

  • Personal cup (for drinks at aid stations – no cups provided)

Trail runner in sportswear, wearing a bib number, running on a dusty path at sunrise with mountains in the background

Recommended Gear

Not essential, but these items can seriously improve your experience:

  • Race belt

  • Peak cap or buff

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunscreen

  • Wet wipes

  • Anti-chafe cream

  • Small ziplock bag for waste

  • Personal first aid

  • Disinfectant

  • R400 cash or a card for emergencies

Age Limits

Minimum age requirements (contact support@capecobratrail.com for queries):

  • 18+ for the Half Marathon

  • 20+ for the full marathon distance

Four smiling marathon runners crossing the finish line at sunset under a "Cape Cobra Trail Marathon" banner.

Support & Seconding

Our race is built on the spirit of self-sufficiency. That means you’re responsible for getting yourself from start to finish—mentally and physically.

While we celebrate your support crew and the amazing role they play, they must only assist you at official Aid Stations, and within 100 metres of those areas.

No pacing, muling, or mobile support is allowed along the route.
Penalties apply for any unfair advantage.

Safety. Integrity. Respect for the Mountain

SAFETY PROTOCOL

If you're injured or immobile:

  • First, use your first aid kit, stay warm, dry, and visible.

  • Then, call the emergency number on your race bib. Be ready to give your race number, name, and location. Help will be dispatched.

No cell signal?

  • Stay where you are. Wait for another runner to alert the nearest marshal or staff.

  • Our Race HQ will coordinate the response.

  • Based on severity, you’ll be treated on site, evacuated via 4x4 or ambulance, or in critical cases, an AMS helicopter will be deployed.

DNF (Did Not Finish)

  • Make your way to the nearest Aid Station via the marked route.

  • Inform the station captain (ask if you’re not sure who it is).

  • Failure to notify officials before leaving the course = ban from future events (unless medically extracted).

Shuttle service will be available back to Start/Finish, but expect delays. We recommend arranging your own backup or taxi if needed.

RULES ON GEAR & CONDUCT

  • Mandatory Gear = Non-Negotiable.
    Carry all listed items throughout the race. Random checks will be done. Penalties: Time additions or disqualification, depending on the breach.

  • Follow the route. No shortcuts. No going off-trail to overtake.

  • Your bib must be visible at all times on the front of your body. Use a race belt.

  • Respect the Cut-Offs.
    Miss a cut-off? You’ll be redirected to the Start/Finish. (Find cut-off details under the Route Info section.)

ENVIRONMENTAL CODE

We run on sacred ground. Respect it.

  • No litter. No trace. No souvenirs.

  • Give space to wildlife and other trail users. Announce yourself around blind corners.

  • No dogs allowed.

  • No rule-bending when it comes to erosion, hygiene, or trail etiquette.
    Penalty = time or disqualification.

TIMING & CHECKPOINTS

Timing checkpoints will be located strategically along the route and will be detailed closer to the race date. You will need to present yourself with your visible race number at each station for tracking.

RESULTS

  • Preliminary results go live on the website post-race.

  • Final results (with corrections) posted within a few days.

  • Disputes? File a protest at Race HQ within 60 minutes of finishing. Final decision lies with a three-person independent committee.

LOST & FOUND

  • Organisers not liable for lost items.

  • Items not collected by race end will be donated to charity or local runners.

  • We do not ship forgotten items.

ADDITIONAL SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

The Cape Cobra takes place on rugged, technical single-track. It’s not just a run — it’s a real trail challenge.

Expect:

  • Steep drop-offs

  • Slippery rocks, roots, and bridges

  • Baboons, bees, and other wildlife

  • Remote sections where help may take time to reach you

Be ready. Be responsible. Respect the mountain.