New reservoir trail run boldly going where no race has gone before

For the first time in its 85-year history, Mount Bold Reservoir Reserve is set to host its first trail running event next weekend – welcoming an expected 700 trail lovers from all over the state for a headline 34-kilometre race.

Aptly named ‘On the Trails in Mount Bold’, the event next month joins a series of races hosted by Trail Running SA and will tackle the reserve’s rugged track network, which is complete with elevated views of the water.

The not-for-profit group was among three successful recipients of SA Water’s Reservoirs Partnership Program in 2022-23, with the $10,000 in funding helping the group’s expansion into reservoir reserves.

Trail Running SA Chairperson Peter Grigg said the inaugural event features four distances, along with a shorter race for kids.

“We’re thrilled to provide our trail runners and walkers with a brand-new event located within one of our state’s most beautiful green open spaces,” Peter said.

“Our events are designed to showcase SA’s finest trails, and adding Mount Bold to this year’s series is offering participants the adventure of running a unique track surrounded by native wildlife and stunning water views.

“By securing this funding through SA Water’s program, we were able to explore the various reservoir reserves for potential events and couldn’t go past the incredible beauty and diversity of Mount Bold.

“There will be four distances participants can choose from – including 10, 17, 25 and 34-kilometre events – that range from around 450 to 1,000 metres of elevation, ensuring they cater for beginners to established athletes.

“Trail running is all about connecting people with nature through exercise, and we’re grateful for SA Water’s support to help bring this event to life and provide the community with another opportunity to get active.”

Earlier this year, Myponga Reservoir Reserve also hosted a new running event for the first time, which featured a 19-kilometre circumnavigation – including a section along the dam wall.

SA Water’s Senior Manager of Environment and Energy James Crocker said South Australia’s reservoir reserves are supporting an ever-growing number of community events inspired by conservation and recreation.

“These natural spaces have been transformed into thriving recreational destinations, which continue to attract interest from community groups all over the state,” James said.

“Since Myponga first opened in April 2019, South Australians now have access to 2,100 hectares of land, 900 hectares of open water for kayaking, and 95 kilometres of trails to explore across our reservoir reserves – and they’re truly embracing these new opportunities to connect with nature.

“It’s pleasing to see how communities are driving the evolution of experiences at our reservoir reserves, with thousands of people having already taken part in a range of events including triathlons, trail runs, fishing competitions, and citizen-science projects.

“This latest event by Trail Running SA is just one example of the many initiatives we’re supporting through our Reservoirs Partnership Program, and we’re proud to play a role in bringing their new races to Mount Bold.”

‘On the Trails in Mount Bold’ race events are scheduled for Sunday 8 October, starting near the temporary western car park off Mount Bold Road in Kangarilla.

Anyone interested can visit trailrunningsa.com to register before 5pm on Thursday 5 October.

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