Monaghan Farm Trail Run brings a new trail option to Johannesburg

RUN Magazine
2 hours ago
2 min read

Johannesburg’s trail running calendar continues to grow and this May a new event adds another option for runners looking to move off the road and onto singletrack.

The Monaghan Farm Trail Run presented by Chas Everitt is set within the Monaghan Farm estate offering a mix of open grassland, river sections and purpose-built trail. It will take place on Saturday 9 May 2026. Being positioned on the outskirts of the city, the event provides access to a more traditional trail running environment without the need to travel far.

The route has been designed to prioritise singletrack with all three distances sharing sections of the same course.

Distances on offer

Runners can choose between three distances, each catering to a different level of experience:

7.5km – A shorter route with rolling terrain and open views suited to newer trail runners or those looking for a more accessible distance
14.5km – A mid-distance option that introduces moderate climbing, river crossings and longer runnable sections
21km – The longest route on the day, covering a wider portion of the estate with more varied terrain and extended sections of trail

While the distances differ, the overall character of the routes remains consistent with an emphasis on natural terrain rather than road or jeep track.

A growing space in the local calendar

Trail running has seen steady growth both globally and within South Africa with more events being introduced across the country in recent years. Part of that growth has been driven by demand for races that offer access to natural environments and varied terrain.

In Gauteng, where access to mountainous landscapes is limited, events like this play an important role in expanding the local trail offering. By making use of private land and established trail networks, organisers are able to create courses that differ from more urban-based routes.

Event experience

The Monaghan Farm Trail Run will include standard race infrastructure with clearly marked routes, water points and professional timing across all distances.

A race village will be set up at the venue with food vendors, music and a recovery area available to runners after they finish. All finishers will receive a medal.

Event information