Two trail runners, reported missing, were found safe and sound, after spending the night on a mountain.
According to Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) Western Cape, a multi-agency search was launched in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve and Jonkershoek Nature Reserve after the two were reported missing on Sunday evening (14 April).
“The pair had departed the Jonkershoek gate shortly before 08:00 on Sunday, intending to run over the mountains to the Nuweberg Forestry Station, finishing by 16:00. Family members called the emergency contact number when they were not able to contact the two ultra-endurance runners after they had missed their deadline,” the organisation said in a statement.
WSAR is a network of government agencies and civilian volunteer organisationsthat partner in search and rescue.
Teams from WSAR, including CapeNature rangers, were deployed from the Nuweberg Forestry Station into the mountains late on Sunday. Drones of the provincial Department of Health & Wellness EMS Drone Unit were also used to help find the missing running duo.
By Monday morning there was still no trace of the two and the search teams stood down.
“Fresh rescue teams, including specialised trackers, and the Department of Health & Wellness EMS/Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter responded to Jonkershoek when the search resumed at first light on Monday morning.
“Thankfully, the pair found their way from the mountain to a point where they were able to contact family members, while teams were getting ready to deploy into the field.”
They were collected by a small team near Franschhoek around 11:00. According to reports the runners were delayed on their intended route. After they realised they would not make it to Nuweberg, they decided to follow a trail down Assegaaiboskloof from Berg River Neck.
The two sheltered next to the river for safety on Sunday night and continued on the trail after sunrise on Monday.
A passing mountain biker helped direct them to a nearby road. From there the two could contact family.
“This incident highlights the importance of proper preparation, and a little common sense,” said David Nel, a WSAR spokesperson.
“The two ultra-distance trail runners were aware that there was limited cellular coverage and had told family members where they intended to run, when they intended to return and who to call if they did not return. They carried sufficient precautionary gear to ensure that they were able to survive a cold night out, in the unlikely event of an emergency.”
Nel urged all outdoor enthusiasts to follow the pair’s example and remember the boy-scout adage, “Be prepared”.
Save and share the emergency contact number (021 937 0300) and visit wsar.org.za for more safety tips.
