Otter delivers another unforgettable trail run

Some events are about winners. Others are about the stories that unfold along the way.

The 2026 Otter TERREX Trail presented by EasyEquities delivered both in abundance. From record-breaking performances at the front of the field to emotional personal journeys throughout the pack, the annual pilgrimage along South Africa’s most famous trail once again reminded everyone why it is known as the Grail of Trail.

CN&CO was delighted to be part of the action once again. EasyEquities, one of our long-standing partners, returned as presenting sponsor, while founder Carel Nolte was on hand throughout the weekend. Our own Blake Dyason tackled the event after completing the pre-event walk, and we were also cheering on the Barker Insurance Brokers contingent, with the three Barker brothers taking on one of the country’s toughest endurance challenges.

For anyone who has experienced Otter, either as a runner, volunteer or spectator, the results only tell part of the story.

This year’s race produced history in both elite fields. Bianca Tarboton claimed an extraordinary fifth Otter victory in six years, further cementing her place as the queen of the trail, while Robbie Rorich finally earned a richly deserved first men’s title after years of coming agonisingly close.

Above left: Robbie Rorich used his legendary rock running skills and knowledge of the course to win the 2026 Otter TERREX Trail presented by EasyEquities. (📸 Fahwaaz Cornelius); Above right: Bianca Tarboton made history as she won the women’s title at the Otter TERREX Trail presented by EasyEquities for the fifth time. (📸 Fahwaaz Cornelius)

The race itself was contested in the Retto direction, from Nature’s Valley to Storms River, with cool, wet conditions adding another layer of difficulty to an already demanding route of rocky coastline, steep climbs, river crossings and seemingly endless staircases.

But what has always made Otter special is that the event celebrates every runner.

“Whether chasing podium positions or simply hoping to beat the nine-hour cut-off, every athlete earns their place through months of preparation, determination and no small amount of courage,” says Carel. “As spectators, we watched moments of grit, generosity, exhaustion and pure joy unfold across the Tsitsikamma coastline.”

EasyEquities’ involvement reflects that same philosophy.

Rather than simply sponsoring an event, the company continues to invest in the people who make South African sport so special. Prize money includes an investment component paid into EasyEquities accounts, encouraging athletes to think beyond race day and towards their long-term financial future.

As Carel (who is also the chief enablement officer at EasyEquities) explains: “We don’t want to just hand over a cheque and disappear. At EasyEquities, we invest in companies, but we also invest in people. Excellence deserves recognition, and athletes need more than applause.”

That sentiment extends well beyond the elite athletes.

Watching CN&CO partner Blake Dyason complete another Otter reminded us why these events matter. They’re about challenging yourself, sharing the experience with friends and creating memories that last far longer than sore legs. The same could be said for the Barker brothers, whose participation brought another familiar insurance industry connection to the trail, demonstrating once again how Otter has become a gathering place for people from every walk of life.

Above left: Choosing the wrong pathway on the final climb possibly cost Philani Sengce the win in his debut Otter TERREX Trail presented by EasyEquities, but the runner-up has pledged to return and chase the course record. (📸 Caleb Bjergfelt); Above right: Kane Reilly finished third in the 2026 Otter TERREX Trail presented by EasyEquities, making it a remarkable 10 podium finishes in 14 Otter runs. (📸 Caleb Bjergfelt)

By the time the final finisher crossed the line before the nine-hour cut-off, 241 runners had completed another remarkable edition of the race. Behind them stood an army of volunteers, crew members and supporters who made the event possible.

Congratulations to Bianca Tarboton and Robbie Rorich on their memorable victories, to every runner who earned an Otter medal and to the organisers, volunteers and sponsors who continue to preserve one of South Africa’s truly iconic sporting experiences.

We’ll see you on the trail again next year.