I always do wonder why there is this massive resentment towards the road running scene from Trail runners... I do both, enjoy both and am equally useless at both, but I clearly missed the secret handshake or blood oath somewhere along the line.
Yes ASA are pretty useless, as per pretty much all government linked entities, but a license for the year is small fry (R120) in the grand scheme of things and we've got the most incredible and well supported calendar and some truly world class events. Clubs organize races, keeping entry costs lower, giving everyone access to safe, supported runs - then those race fees build the clubs up, allowing them to support their more talented runners, creating a strong local running scene and a wonderful diverse and inclusive running culture.
And where road running is a million miles ahead of trail, is exactly in this regard... diversity and inclusivity. If there is any sport that needs to take a good long look at itself, it's trail running. The entry fees are out of hand and the diversity about on par with Orania.
And Kaapsehoep, I am guessing you haven't run it... but it sucks as a run for most normal folk. Running downhill for hours becomes highly unpleasant, which funnily enough makes it a pretty darn good qualifier especially on years such as this one.
Apologies for the thread hijack everyone else
