Terence Vrugtman - Photographer

03/05/2023

Karkloof 100 Enters New Era

Johannesburg, South Africa - The Karkloof Trail Series enters a new era as it changes ownership from the last of the founders, Andrew and Lauren Booth, following its purchase by Terence Vrugtman. In 2017, KZN Trail Running and TrailLab entered a joint venture to start the 100 Mile Endurance foot race. Since then, it has become a popular trail institution and a must-attend event on the South African calendar.

After years of involvement as a media supplier, Terence, the founder of AdventureLife Media Services, has taken on a new role as the owner of Karkloof 100. With over a decade of experience working with the biggest outdoor and adventure events in the country, Terence is well-equipped to lead the event to new heights.

"I’ve been obsessed with the idea of Karkloof since my first discussions with Jack in early 2017. Since then, together with Jack & Michelle Davis and Lauren & Andrew Booth, we’ve created and achieved some pretty unique things. The Karkloof Trail Series is a special event that offers a fast and challenging course with beautiful scenery, " said Terence. "I'm excited to build on the event's strengths and get stuck in where it's required. We aim to improve communication all-round, build on the spectator experience, and introduce new and unique media platforms never seen before."

The event has grown in attendance continuously since 2017, and its runnability and ease of access for support with characteristic aid stations every 10 miles or 16km make it a popular choice for new and seasoned trail runners. TrailLab sold their share of the event to KZNTR in late 2021.

"The Karkloof has been my second home since high school days, so the opportunity to create something alongside close friends, Jack & Michelle, to showcase the area to the trail running community marks a very significant and special period in my career and life" said Andrew Booth, founder of KZN Trail Running. “We're thrilled to see the Karkloof Trail Series continue to grow under Terence's leadership. The event is an important fixture in the trail running calendar, and we're excited to see what the future holds for what is one of our greatest achievements thus far."

Jack Davis, a founder of TrailLab, echoed Booth's sentiments. "The Karkloof 100 journey has gifted me with a cherished community, changed my life in unimaginable ways, and helped me grow as a person. None of this would have been possible without each and every one of you - the vibrant community, the dedicated runners, the enthusiastic supporters, and the selfless volunteers," he said. "Terence holds a deep respect for the race, understanding the core values and foundations upon which it was built. His unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with a strong respect for history and tradition, makes him the ideal person to take over the race."

For runners already entered, they can expect everything they signed up for and more! Andrew & Terence are working closely during this transition period and participants can expect the traditional Karkloof experience, paired with new energy and exciting innovations. More information will be communicated over the coming days both personally and via social media.

For more information about the Karkloof Trail Series, visit www.karkloof100.co.za

15/11/2022

Relive Terence's Drakensberg Grand Traverse experience.

Following a solid build-up, Terence and Wes were plagued with minor sickness despite keeping pace.

https://www.adventurelifesa.com/post/drakensberg-grand-traverse-run

Terence Vrugtman shares his pre-race and race experience with Wesley Anotnites on the Drakensberg Grand Traverse.

15/11/2022

13/09/2022

A new chapter is starting for Salomon. ​Head over to to be there from the very beginning. 🎬​

25/08/2022

14/08/2022

The last time I ran along this bridge, Jason and I set the Magalies FKT.

Now, I'm working on something cooler.

For now, just know that Thomas van Tonder OCR called me

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26/07/2022

Me, taking a moment to visualise the bigger picture, line up the next shot and make magic happen away from the 'traffic'!
.. and trying not to be too serious while I'm at it.
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04/07/2022

75 years of Salomon, 10 years of Salomon for me!

started 31st Jan 2012 with a pair of Speedcross at my first 5km trail run. I entered the 5, they announced it would be 7km, and I immediately walked off the start line because the extra 2km was WAY TO FAR. Jason Gradwell dragged back onto the line and for some years after he and Mike elevated my game event after event.

Very soon by the end of 2012 we were racing sprint and full day AR events with Salomon bibs. This was also when I started .

Later after that, I met and at a community coffee run ahead of their Record Run. Following that coffee and a test shoot for , Ryno helped me cement my name and 's in the industry by booking job after job and introducing me to some cool friends like .green and many more.

In 2016, as a Salomon Ambassador and photographer, my passion for the brand grew even more.

4 expedition races later and many more jobs, I don't go a day without a pair of Salomon shoes on my feet.

24/06/2022

Drakensberg Day Dreaming...

18/05/2022

So much can go wrong when you meet your AR team the night before. Thankfully, so much went right.

I met Suzanna 8 days before the race and we chatted for 20min at most. I was introduced to Fred the night before and thankfully I have known Richard for some time.

The 4 of us came together off the idea and intrigue of Suzanne who always wanted to try AR. We set off with the goal to finish and the expectations of complete newbies.

In the end, we simply had the greatest time. Racing with Suz, Frikkie and seemed as if we had been racing for years, we had the vibe, the movement, the teamwork - everything. Speed will come in the next race or two.



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14/04/2022

It's been a slow week trying to process EXP Africa and normal life after a spectacular tour through Lesotho.

You would think by now I would know that there is no such thing as normal life after an expedition.

was a reminder that my first true love is AR and an eye-opener to what I want to give this sport. I thought about media a lot, teams mates, and how teams are formed.

At T3, I asked rob if he was keen to explore more of Lesotho, he relaxingly expressed, "I have time, I have food, so sure, why not." We set on a grand adventure as mates without expectations or goals, we just wanted to move and explore Lesotho.

On these races, I race with an empty mind - focused on nothing more than my feet in front of me. With time on my hands, this race I pondered most on what why I wanted to be out there for so long. I also came up with a few new business ideas I hope to explore soon.

For the first time in a long time, I feel ready for a fresh start and the rest of the year.