During our first trip to South Africa, we were in training for a marathon and needed to get in some mileage. It was by sheer coincidence that the ABAX Investments Milkwood Run (half marathon) was happening while we were there. It’s held along the western side of the Cape. It was a hilly route, and with my knee acting up, it turned into more of a run/walk. But despite the physical challenges, it was a blast!
Participating in a local event like this always makes us feel more connected to a new place, giving us a chance to experience the landscape from a different perspective. The weather was perfect—cool and foggy, just enough to keep us from roasting under the African sun.
Along the way, we couldn’t resist stopping for photos. How could we not? The course wound through some stunning views—lighthouses in the distance, fog settling over the ocean, and even baboons hanging out by the side of the road.
What really stood out was the camaraderie among the runners. Even in a foreign country, the shared experience of running brought us together with others. In the U.S., people shout "Good job!" to encourage each other; here, it was "Well done!" The language was different, but the sense of community was the same. There’s a universal bond among runners that transcends borders—training, race day nerves, pushing through pain—we all share the same journey.
Another unique aspect was the eco-friendly focus of the race. Runners were encouraged to bring their own collapsible water cups, with far fewer disposable cups than we’re used to seeing at U.S. races. It’s a small thing, but it speaks to the local commitment to sustainability. By participating in events like this, we not only connect with the people, but also learn how different communities approach things like environmental responsibility.
Post-race, there wasn’t the usual buffet of free snacks we’d come to expect. Instead, snacks were available for purchase—another small difference that emphasized sustainability over indulgence. It was refreshing, in a way. As we peeled off our shoes and socks for a refreshing cool-down in the tidal pool, it struck us how these experiences shape the way we travel. By jumping into local events, we get a taste of a different lifestyle—one that goes beyond just sightseeing.
Exploring Through Events
Experiences like this are why we love traveling so much. Sure, we could have just visited the Cape, snapped the usual photos, and moved on. But by participating in the Milkwood Run, we became part of something bigger. There's something special about joining a local event—whether it's running, cycling, a food festival, or a community gathering—it gives you a unique connection to the place and its people.
Even in a foreign country, we felt that familiar sense of camaraderie among the runners. Training, nutrition, race-day jitters—it’s all the same, whether you're pounding pavement in Cape Town or back home in the States. It’s a shared experience that bridges the gap between strangers and helps you feel at home, even when you’re far away.
So, next time you're planning a trip, check out the local calendar. You don’t have to be an athlete to dive into an event. Maybe you’ll find a food market, a music festival, or even a guided hike through the hills. These are the moments that make travel richer—when you step into the rhythm of a place rather than just observing it from the sidelines.
Enjoying our articles?
Give this article a heart, a comment or a share. It may seem small but helps us to reach more readers.
Want to support our work with a donation?
Buy Us a Cup of Coffee or Venmo @KrisKuhn_369
Our Most Recent Articles
😎Connect with Us
View the Archive to see all past articles
View Mark’s professional travel photography and award-winning photos at Wanderlust Photography and follow Wanderlust Photography on Instagram
*This newsletter may contain affiliate links, which means if you use our links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. (We only recommend things we love and believe in.)
Great advice! We recently attempted Ragbrai (riding 450ish miles across Iowa) and whilst we didn't manage to complete (long story, to do with knees) it was nonetheless an amazing way to see Iowa and connect with the communities there, an experience I don't think we'd have had any other way. We're looking for the next challenge/event so that we can do it again! Recommendations welcome!
YES, love this "...we became part of something bigger. There's something special about joining a local event".