Destination Racing - Taking Your Run on Holiday

Whether you’re packing for the salty air of Ballito, the lagoon views of Knysna, or the misty peaks of the Drakensberg, there’s one thing you shouldn't leave behind: your running shoes. The concept of the holiday run has evolved significantly. It is no longer just a solo slog on a hotel treadmill to burn off the Christmas pudding. Instead, it has transformed into Destination Racing, a growing trend where athletes use their vacation as an opportunity to earn an extra medal, explore a new town, and connect with a local community.

If you feel a sudden surge of motivation the moment you hit the coast, you are certainly not alone. Recent research into South African travel habits shows that we are a nation of active vacationers.

There is a phenomenon known as the Bravecation Effect, where an incredible 85% of South African travellers report being braver on holiday. This leads to a high willingness to try new physical activities they wouldn't normally attempt at home. Furthermore, over 52% of us state that returning from a holiday feeling healthier than when we left is a top priority. A local race serves as the perfect anchor to keep your fitness on track between the festivities. This shift is reflected in the economy as well, with the South African sports tourism market growing at a staggering 17.6% annually as more people swap traditional sightseeing for sweat-seeing.

Beyond the physical benefits, these events facilitate meaningful travel. Since 63% of travellers prioritize spending time with loved ones, local fun runs and parkruns offer a rare activity that the whole family can enjoy together, regardless of whether they are a 5km walker or a 10km sprinter. This rise in athletic adventures is one of the biggest travel trends of 2025, as travellers increasingly choose fitness as a core part of their itinerary rather than something to merely fit in between sightseeing.

Adapting to Your New Environment

Taking your run on the road often means facing unfamiliar conditions. If you are heading from the inland highveld to the coast, you will likely notice a welcome boost in your performance due to the increased oxygen at sea level. However, coastal running brings its own challenges, such as higher humidity and the temptation of soft-sand running. If you decide to hit the beach, it is best to start on the firmer sand near the water’s edge to avoid excessive strain on your Achilles. Remember that most beaches are sloped, so try to run out and back to ensure you aren't putting uneven pressure on one leg for the duration of your workout.

For those heading to the mountains, the thinner air of the Drakensberg or the Maluti range will make your heart rate climb much faster than usual. It can take several days for your body to produce the extra red blood cells needed to transport oxygen efficiently at high altitudes. If you are planning a race in these regions, try to arrive at least three days early to acclimatize. During your first few runs, ignore your pace and focus entirely on your effort level, as even a slow jog can feel like a sprint when you are two thousand meters above sea level.

Mastering the Logistics of Race Travel

Finding a race in an unfamiliar town should not be a workout in itself. You can use the RaceSpace App location filters to scout your destination with ease. Start by looking in the province of your holiday destination, and then set your discipline and race distance. Most holiday races fall between 16 December and 1 January. If you want to broaden your horizons, select the distance away from your location to see events within a 50km radius of your accommodation, all the way up to 1500km away! Sometimes the best community races are hidden in the little towns next door.

When it comes to packing, experienced destination racers always keep their essentials in their carry-on luggage. Your running shoes, race-day kit, and favourite nutrition should never be left to the mercy of checked baggage. It is also wise to pack a small "emergency kit" that includes anti-chafe balm, sunblock, and any specific hydration salts you are used to. While exploring local cuisine is a highlight of any holiday, the night before your race is the one time you should stick to familiar foods to avoid any unwanted digestive surprises on the starting line.

Iconic Holiday Races for December 2025

If you need some inspiration, there are several iconic holiday races currently trending for the upcoming season. In Knysna, the KMC 10km Nite Race on 16 December is a beloved Garden Route tradition. It starts at 18:00 from Loerie Park, offering a festive twilight atmosphere and a flat, fast route that is perfect for a personal best. Over in Ballito, the Run Out '25 on 31 December is a fantastic way to celebrate the last sunrise of the year. This New Year’s Eve run ends at Hops Ballito, where adults receive a celebratory drink and kids are treated to a milkshake.

For those seeking a more rugged experience, the mountain parkruns in the Drakensberg, such as Cannibals Cave, offer world-class scenery and high-altitude training every Saturday morning. These events are not just about the distance; they are a gateway to the local community, often ending with a shared coffee at a nearby stall. By the time the rest of the family is waking up for breakfast, you’ll already have your medal, your holiday workout done, and a fresh perspective on your destination.