The event is unique in that the SkyRun 100k and 65k are fully self-supported and self-navigational races, where athletes set out to tackle the remote terrain of the Witteberg Mountain range with all their own essentials. Athletes taking part must equip themselves with a map, a compass or GPS unit and a backpack containing all their food, water and other compulsory equipment that will enable them to negotiate the extreme terrain. 

Add to that, not only has there been predicted rain and thunderstorms, but athletes will also be competing at an average altitude of over 2200m above sea level, with the highest points topping 2500m. 

“I am very excited to be racing again, although this is a lot different to the normal races that I am used to competing in,” said Horn. In preparation for the event, Horn spent a few weeks in the Drakensburg mountains in order to prepare for the conditions she will face on Saturday. 

“I had to make sure that everything is waterproof and also had to buy a head lamp as we will be starting at 4:00am in the complete dark.”

Horn who has represented South Africa over 100km has also taken on some learnings from her coach, Nick Bester, the national team manager of the Nedbank running club. “We earlier this year went to Lesotho on a training camp and in hindsight a lot of what we did there I will be taking into this race. All day long hikes with Nick in the mountains whilst carrying back packs definitely makes me confident of doing well on Saturday!” 

The Nedbank running club wishes Deanne all the best for this weekend!