Cannibal Cave parkrun Celebrates Its 500th Event

On 28 February 2026, Cannibal Cave parkrun celebrated a remarkable milestone — its 500th event. What began on 28 June 2014 with just 42 runners and four volunteers has grown into a much-loved gathering for runners, walkers and volunteers in the Northern Drakensberg. Over the years, the event has become known not only for its breathtaking scenery but also for the strong sense of community that brings people together each Saturday morning.

The event is approximately 66km from Harrismith parkrun and 98km from Ladysmith parkrun. Over the years, the event has only paused during the COVID-19 pandemic and again when the bridge over the Tugela River was damaged.

The route itself is one of the defining features of this parkrun. Starting at Cannibal Cave, it heads towards the entrance of Royal Natal National Park before turning right into Rugged Glen Reserve. The course continues along a tarred road to the entrance of Rugged Glen Stables, where the turning point is positioned, and then follows the same scenic route back. The return leg offers participants magnificent views of the Amphitheatre and, in the summer months, Tugela Falls — internationally recognised as the world’s highest waterfall.

Behind the success of Cannibal Cave parkrun are Lizzy and Muzi Mabaso, whose dedication has been central to the event’s growth and continuity. Their commitment is reflected in the many hours they have devoted to volunteering (400 and 209 times, respectively) and serving in the Run Director role (266 and 171 times, respectively).

Their daughter, Liza, has also made a significant contribution through regular volunteering (250 times). I must also mention Sifiso Masengemi (49th volunteer duty), who administers the registration of new parkrun participants and registers them on the system, ensuring that they have the necessary barcode to obtain their results, in addition to fulfilling other volunteer roles.

Not taking anything away from the many other people who volunteer on a regular basis, a hallmark of Cannibal Cave parkrun is the involvement of the local community. It is inspiring to see locals, particularly children, actively participating as both runners and volunteers.

Through encouragement, guidance and inclusion by Lizzy and Muzi, young people have developed confidence, responsibility and communication skills while becoming an integral part of the parkrun experience. The warm encouragement offered to participants along the route captures the spirit of this event — one built on belonging, support and shared achievement.

Cannibal Cave parkrun is about more than completing a course; it is about witnessing the joy of participation and the power of community. The smiles, determination and enthusiasm of those taking part — regardless of background or resources — are what make this event memorable.

Messages of congratulations on this achievement were received from Bruce Fordyce and Iain Morshead (Delta Parkrun SA), as well as from a family in the UK who shared their experience of visiting Cannibal Cave parkrun and their wish to visit again soon.

Sincere thanks are extended to everyone who has contributed to Cannibal Cave parkrun over the years. On this note, thank you to all those who have made donations to Cannibal Cave parkrun — you know who you are, and more importantly, you should know that you made a difference in someone’s day and in the parkrun days that followed. Your generosity has had a meaningful impact. However, special mention must be made of Waveney and Allan Richardson, as well as Girtie and Al Weir, for their incredible support to the community.

Finally, heartfelt appreciation goes to Lizzy and Muzi for their continued dedication to both the parkrun and the surrounding community. Their efforts have ensured that this event remains a welcoming and uplifting experience for all who attend.

Congratulations to Cannibal Cave parkrun on reaching this remarkable 500-event milestone.

Neil von Hagen