“It’s a first for South Africa. It’s the first night-time obstacle race, the first zombie race as well,” says Rudy Witkowsky, event coordinator. The first ever Afterdark Invasion took place on 27 October 2018 at D’Vine Wine Estate near Paarl. The race puts a new spin on park races by throwing an obstacle course and zombies in the mix.
The leaders of the pack head off as the race begins, preparing to dodge out of the way of ribbon-hungry zombies. PHOTO: Michael Davidson
Participants have to navigate a 7km obstacle course while defending three ribbons from the grasping hands of the Zombies (a bunch of actors in convincing makeup). Protecting your ribbons results in a medal at the end of the course, whilst losing them means the zombies “get you.” The course was comprised of varied obstacles such as a rope climb, a mud crawl and monkey bars.
A participant excited about being caught on camera crawling through mud. PHOTO: Michael Davidson
“I’m super excited about the event,” said Fatima Hendricks, Stellenbosch BSc Molecular Biology student, and one of the zombies for the event. “SFX makeup isn’t something I’ve done before but this gave me a chance to try it out.”
Many participants tried their best to finish as fast as possible. “I enjoyed it, every obstacle was good, there was only one challenging one which was the rope climb because it’s the last one and you’re so tired when you reach it,” says Jita Ndabazovuyo, fitness trainer and first-place winner. “I had a good time and I only lost one ribbon.”
Obstacle course winner Jita Ndabazovuyo doing his best zombie impression after winning. PHOTO: Michael Davidson
Besides the serious athletes, other participants found more fun in escaping the zombies than trying to win. Couples, families with young children and more were seen smiling and enjoying the fun.
Survivors try their best to escape the zombies closing in around them GIF: Michael Davidson
As the sun began to set and all participants had completed the obstacle course the race area transformed into a dance floor. “I’ve done all the obstacle races out there, says Witkowsky. I love partying, I love obstacle course and I love races, so I just thought I’d put them all together.”
As the night heads on the dance scene picks up. The DJ keeps tired, but happy, participants entertained throughout the night. PHOTO: Michael Davidson
Sponsored by Carabao, a Taiwanese energy drink company, the runners were provided with many free energy drinks and free drink mixers (tonic water, ginger ale etc.)
“We definitely plan to do it again next year, this is the first of many,” said Witkowsky. “I spoke to a lot of racers and they really enjoyed it, but I know there were a bunch of things we could do better even though nobody who participated seems to think so.”
For those who couldn’t make it, Matiemedia has prepared a quick recap video of the event.
Also watch a 360 video of the run below.