One of the mandatory kit items at the Liberty Health Rhodes Trail Run is a 'space blanket', and recent weather on the route has highlighted why every runner is obliged to carry one for the duration of the run. Every year we have shivering runners wrapped in blankets at the top of Mavis Bank, either regrouping before taking on Lesotho View and Hooggenoeg Ridge or just thankful that they made the cut-off and are waiting for a ride back to Rhodes.

This year we are introducing a special award. It is not one that is likely to be keenly fought over but one that will be warmly received by the recipient. It is probably only going to be awarded once to a runner as it is highly unlikely, due to race protocol, that someone will be in line to receive it a second time.

The first runner to reach the Mavis Bank Border road check-point after the 4½ hour cut-off will receive a specially embroidered First Ascent fleece blanket. Only one of these blankets has been made, making it a unique souvenir.

A special memento after a long day in the kloof.