Why RMB Run4Rivers means so much to me

By Blake Dyason

I’m genuinely excited to be working with RMB on the annual RMB Run4Rivers Trail Run, which takes place on 1 March 2026 at the Plaisir Wine Estate in the Simonsberg region of the Western Cape.

Through CN&CO I’ve worked closely with RMB for years across a range of sporting events and campaigns. We share a deep alignment in values and purpose-driven work. But Run4Rivers feels especially close to home.

Quite simply, it brings together some of my favourite things: trail running, people, and conservation.

More than just a trail run

The RMB Run4Rivers isn’t your typical trail race. It’s a powerful partnership between RMB and Plaisir Wine Estate, with a clear and meaningful goal to protect and restore the rivers of the Simonsberg. Every entry contributes directly to removing invasive alien vegetation and rehabilitating these vital river systems, helping the entire ecosystem thrive.

As someone deeply involved in the Cape Town trail community and conservation through Love Our Trails, this kind of event really matters to me.

The routes (and the magic)

There are three distances on offer: 5km, 10km and 22km, making the event accessible whether you’re new to trail running or chasing a serious challenge.

For those feeling fit and adventurous, the 22km route is a true bucket-list experience. This route is currently only open for the RMB Run4Rivers race and takes runners along pristine singletrack, across rivers, through vineyards and indigenous forest, and all the way to the top of Simonsberg Mountain.

The views from up there are magic. On the way back down, you’ll zigzag your way through the mountain, with time to soak it all in and see the visible impact of the alien vegetation clearing work happening on these slopes.

The trails are beautifully maintained, and runnable, with well-placed water points, and for the 10km and 22km runners, there’s even a champagne tasting waiting for you up on the hill — because this is still Simonsberg, after all.

An elevated race experience

RMB has truly elevated this event, bringing on some exceptional partners who add to the overall experience.

Every athlete will receive a beautifully designed pair of Ciovita socks, enjoy generous Smul samples and tastings, and be fuelled by Bootlegger Coffee, who’ll be serving great coffee and their legendary banana bread at the race village.

And then there’s something new and very special this year — a floating trophy. RMB is introducing a unique, artist-designed floating trophy that will live on as part of the race legacy. We’ll be sharing more about the artist and the story behind it soon.

There are prizes for the top three male and female athletes across all distances, as well as loads of lucky draw prizes — think wine, accommodation, complimentary tickets, merchandise and plenty more.

The RMB Run4Rivers Trail Run forms part of the RMB Simonsberg Wine Festival weekend, which runs from 28 February to 1 March 2026. All runners receive a discounted voucher to attend the wine festival, where you can expect some of the best wines from the Simonsberg region, delicious food, and great entertainment — all set on the stunning Plaisir Wine Estate. Bring your friends and make a weekend of it.

Lastly, one of the biggest reasons I love this race and working with RMB, is the people behind it. From Nicola Martin and her team at One 4 Adventure, who organises the event, to the RMB team, who are hands-on, passionate, and genuinely invested in the community and the impact this race creates. That energy filters through everything and you feel it on race day.

BOOK HERE FOR THE RMB RUN4RIVERS TRAIL RUN

I hope to see you there.