The Garden Route National Park is bracing itself for a storm- the likes of which have never been seen before. It is expected to reach the region on the weekend of the 19 September 2009.

Storm Chasers from around the country will be arriving in their hundreds to experience this first ever phenomenon.

The Southern Storm presented by Hi – Tec,  Multistage Duathlon, 19 to 24 September 2009, has attracted a complete sell out in its inaugural year and the inclusion of the first ever running of the iconic 5 day Otter Hiking Route has certainly been the star attraction in what will be a spectacular and challenging 6 day multisport experience.

“ It could not have been a worse time to introduce a new event, what with the current global financial downturn. However Magnetic South knew it had something totally unique to offer both the burgeoning Trail Running fraternity and the constantly growing Mountain Biking community with an event that has never been done on the same scale as the ‘Southern Storm presented by Hi- Tec’ or along routes that have been out of bounds until now. For this we have SANParks, Cape Nature, plus the many corporate and private landowners to thank for their foresight and trust in our organisation to protect their interests and most importantly their environment.” Said Mark Collins Project Director for Magnetic South.

With limited numbers being allowed on the Otter (Stage One) and thus determining the maximum allowed for the entire event one thing is for certain; the 200 competitors are sure to experience all the natural splendours this physical and mental challenge will present, but many will also be asking – will it be possible to break the existing 5 hour 12 min time set by John Collins of Magnetic South on a scout run of the same route achieved earlier this year ??