KNYSNA NEWS - Get ready to move, groove, paddle and pedal – the 42nd Knysna Oyster Festival is back from 4 to 13 July, bursting with thrilling sporting events for every age and ability, whether you're a seasoned athlete, weekend warrior, or just looking for a fun family outing.
The festival sporting calendar is jam-packed with iconic favourites and new adventures that span forests, mountains, roads, waterways, and even wine farms – all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Garden Route.
Hit the ground running
Lace up for the legendary Knysna Forest Marathon & Half Marathon (5 July) – a must-do event that winds through the mystical Knysna Forest. Entries are still available for the full marathon.
On Sunday 6 July, the Houtkapper Trail Run with its forest magic and mountain air awaits. This event offers three distances, each winding through the lush indigenous forests and singletrack paths of Krisjan-se-Nek.
It's one of the festival’s most iconic off-road runs – and your perfect excuse to get a little muddy in the name of fun.
For a slightly more relaxed experience, join the 3km family adventure walk at Blackwaters River Lodge on Friday 4 July. If you'd rather spectate than participate, there are two soccer tournaments to look out for: the KLFA soccer tournament and the street soccer tournament, as well as the SWD Touch Showdown touch rugby tournament, the mini hockey Tournament and netball tournament.
Join the 5km for Cansa on 6 July or bring the whole family for the festive RAP Knysna Colour Run (12 July) – it’s fitness with flair!
On 10 July, you can continue your festival fitness journey with the Simola Sunset Wine Run, or push your limits with the KnysnaX Trail Series Winter Run. That is if you don't want to do the Choo-Tjoe Ultra Trail Run, that follows the historic railway route, on 13 July.
Pedal power
Saddle up for one of the festival’s most exhilarating sporting spectacles – the Knysna Cycle Tour.
Spanning three epic days, this year’s action kicks off on Friday 11 July with the three-day forest Enduro and Criterium Rides and continues on Saturday 12 July with mountain biking adventures through the scenic forests around Simola – choose from 86km, 56km or 30km routes.
On Sunday 13 July, it’s time to hit the tarmac with road races starting from Waterfront Drive, including thrilling kids' races. Sign up now if you're chasing a podium or just pedalling for fun!
Make a splash
On 5 July, the Canoe Polo Tournament will bring fast-paced, team-focused action to the Knysna Waterfront. The Harbour 2 Heads Lagoon Challenge on 13 July is a spectacular 12km or 24km canoe race through Knysna’s sparkling waterways.
Game on!
Try something different with the padel challenge at Simola Country Estate or sign up for the Oyster Betterball Championship on 11 July at Knysna Golf Club. Think fast and team up for The Amazing Race – Knysna Style, on 9 July, a clue-cracking adventure around town.
And don’t miss the Knysna Sports Fair on 10 July – an energetic celebration of youth sport and community fitness.
These are two 5km Saturday Parkruns which are community-focused, and open to all ages and fitness levels. They start and finish at the Knysna High School Sports Field, part of the Festival Hub.
Join the action and be part of the festival, whether you’re actively participating and competing or just cheering from the sidelines. Check out the full programme or enter online now at www.knysnaoysterfestival.co.za.
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