The Rock Ultra
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The Rock Ultra 2026
The Rock Ultra is a mountain trail run on the slopes of Paarl Mountain, with the start and finish at the Afrikaans Language Monument (Taal Monument) in Paarl, Western Cape. The 2026 event takes place 4–5 December 2026 and uses the race village at the monument as a central gathering point.
The course runs across granite terrain and fynbos, combining jeep track, singletrack, and technical sections. Community-crewed aid stations support runners, and the event is listed by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA). The organisers emphasise respect for the environment, local communities, and landowners and expect a leave-no-trace approach.
Distances cover short family-friendly and charity-oriented options through to an overnight ultra. Finishers receive items such as medals, socks, and event apparel depending on distance; the 100 km entry includes additional services such as a meal voucher and drop bag service. Spectator access to the race village is subject to a R20 entrance fee and wristband; runners access with their race number. Entries are limited and sold in phased pricing: Early Bird, Standard, and Late Entry. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
- 100 km The Rock Ultra - overnight mountain ultra across exposed terrain, 25 hour cut-off
- 44 km The Rock Marathon - full marathon on granite slopes with technical sections, 11 hour cut-off
- 22 km The Boulder Challenge - mid-distance route balancing flow and effort, 6 hour cut-off
- 12 km The Boulder Lite - short, hiking friendly mountain route, 4.5 hour cut-off
- 5 km The Klippie - family run supporting the Anna Foundation, no official timing
