Farm Windhoek Fitness nailed third ‘Moonlight Fun Run’

Over 180 people had the opportunity to marvel at the full moon and stunning surrounds of the IJG Trails on Saturday evening, as part of the third annual IJG ‘Moonlight Fun Run’.

The event started just after sunset and made provision for those who opted to walk, hike or run either the 6km, 8km or 14km routes, which started at Farm Windhoek Fitness (situated at Otjivero Street, Kleine Kuppe in Windhoek).

“The 14km race route is technical and for experienced trail runners only. Runners turned off onto Trader’s and followed as it split left into the valley to join Mufasa, Pumba and ended with Duiker. The 8km route followed the Serengeti trail into Duiker. It was an easy run and non-technical. The 6km route was shorter but more technical. It followed along the Peter Pan, Red Ridge and Duiker trails,” one of the organisers of the event, Julie Mbaisa, said.

After the run, participants each received a free drink and had the opportunity to relax and take in an uninterrupted view of the full moon away from the city lights, while local talented artist, Savannah Collins entertained with live music.

Corne O’Callaghan, who took part in the event for the first time said she looks forward to doing so again.

“When I heard about the run I knew that it would be challenging and that is why I decided to participate. This run is not like your normal run. It is during the night, which means you need to be more cautious. It was dark. All routes are a combination of jeep track, single track and cow trails. There are loose gravel, stones and the surface is uneven, so to walk or run with care to prevent injuries was key. I enjoyed the challenge of rocks and roots on the trail that are not easily visible in the moonlight,” O’Callaghan said.

Lisa O’Donoghue-Lindy also took part in the event and said she most enjoyed the view of the moon and the fact that the route was marked with reflectors and fairy lights hanging in trees.

“This was so beautiful for me. It is nature and we need to find ways to appreciate it. The event was really perfect for Windhoek’s clear skies and mild winter nights. I had a lot of fun,” she said.

Ben Strauss took part because he wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

“To see the moon was really amazing. People are often so busy that they forget about the beauty of the moon and stars. I am glad that I attended even though I did not participant in the run, I had fun. Savannah was a great performer,” Strauss said. 

Mbaisa said many people were pleased about the live music this year. “This is the first time we had a live performance. Besides motivating fitness we also aim to support local music,” Mbaisa said.

Savannah Collins, known for her great guitar skills and unique voice, entertained the crowd with some of her old and new hits such as ‘Be Free’ and ‘My Mind’. She had the audience happily singing and dancing along to cover hits such ‘She Talks To Angels’ by Black Crowes and ‘I Love Rock ‘n Roll’ by Joan Jett.

The Windhoek-born musician has worked her way steadily up the ranks since she began performing at the tender age of 16. She was glad to be able to be part of the event, to entertain the crowd and introduce them to some of her new music, as well as to help make the event a success.

“Such events do not take place in Namibia all the time. It is fitness, fun at night and for me it is a great idea to encourage people to be active and believe in outdoor fitness,” the talented singer said.

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