Extreme weather forced major route changes at the 2025 SkyRun, but runners showed resilience and adapted to the challenge.
South Africa (19 November 2025) – The 29th K-Way SkyRun will be remembered not only for its runners. It is also for the force of nature that reshaped the entire event. Days before the start, a serious weather alert from the South African Weather Service warned of heavy rainfall, flooding, severe winds and thunderstorms across the Witteberg Mountain Range. The atmosphere quickly shifted from anticipation to caution.
Race Director Mike de Haast and his team immediately began re-evaluating their plans.
“From early on, we knew this was going to be no ordinary race. The harsh weather warnings had us constantly reviewing our plans and preparing for multiple scenarios. Our priority was always the safety of every runner and crew member.”
Traditionally, the SkyRun is known for its 100km self-supported, self-navigated challenge. But this year, the elements took control. To ensure safety, the start was moved to a different location, and as conditions worsened, the full course was shortened to under 40km, eliminating the riskiest mountain sections.
One of the decisive moments came when organisers noticed flooding along the path leading to Bridal Pass.
“When we saw the river starting to flood on the route that took athletes up to Bridal Pass, we had no choice but to concede that Mother Nature had won this one. The call was made to reroute all athletes to the finish line, to receive their medal and finishers jacket.”
Although the 38km race could not begin on Saturday, the organisers refused to let the weekend end there. A new 20km route was opened the next day. Under clear skies and calmer conditions, 92 runners lined up with renewed energy to take on the trail.
Among them was Frances van der Merwe, daughter of SkyRun veterans Riana and Mynhardt van der Merwe, who claimed the women’s title for the 20km race.
“I really enjoyed this route, especially the Wall. The Westcliff stairs in Joburg definitely helped me when it came to climbing the Wall today.”
Reflecting on one of the most unpredictable editions of the SkyRun, Mike highlighted the strength of the community behind the event.
“Our runners, marshals, and medical teams showed incredible resilience and teamwork. The safety-first approach was tough but necessary, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.”
As the 2025 SkyRun closes its chapter on one of its most testing years, one truth stands firm: the mountains set the rules, and the human spirit rises to meet them.
“The mountains always win. But they also teach us why we return year after year for the challenge, the camaraderie, and the privilege of being part of this extraordinary journey.”
The 30th edition of the K-Way SkyRun will take place on Saturday 14 November 2026 – early bird entries open 27 November 2025.
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Sources: Supplied
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