Frequently asked Big Five Marathon® questions

The Course

What type of terrain?
The terrain is both flat and hilly with one big climb up the Yellow Wood Valley. The surface varies and will be sand, stones, gravel, rocks, asphalt and earth. See course outline for further information

What will the weather be like?
Probably sunny with temperatures ranging from 18 to 23 degrees Celsius but is subject to change due to sun, shade, wind and altitude.

What, and how often, will the runners be drinking?
Drinks (water and at certain stations, electrolyte) are supplied every 4 kilometres.

What type of running gear should I bring?
Wear normal running shoes, shorts and a light coloured running singlet.
On your head, do not wear a baseball cap (as it builds up a lot of heat on your head) but a shade is recommended.

What if I change my mind, and want to run the half marathon instead?
All runners can change their mind with respect to the distance. Deadline for such changes will be on inspection day (June 30th), after having inspected the route.

Will there be showers available afterwards?
There will be shower and change facilities available after the race.

Food & Drink

Will the marathon runners get lunch (or anything to eat) after completing the event?
There will be a sandwich buffet in the finish area for runners and spectators. It is recommended to eat small and simple after an event like The Big Five Marathon® as for most runners the stomach has stopped working properly due to the strenuous efforts during the race.

Will there be bottled water during the race or some type of purified water?
Every 4 kilometres, bottled (and totally safe) water is served in plastic cups. Electrolyte drinks and bananas are served at selected drink stations, and it is also possible to deposit personal provisions at selected stations along the course.

Animals and safety

What kind of animals are in the game reserve?
In the reserve you will find the "Big Five" as well as numerous other species such as Giraffe, Hippopotamus, Crocodiles and many species of Antelope, not to mention the abundance of birdlife.

Am I safe during the marathon?
Rangers will take care of our safety during the race. They will guard all the big animals and rangers will drive in front and at the back of the runners plus they will continuously guard the whole route in their vehicles. If necessary we will also have a helicopter in the air to spot the animals.

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