The Abangeni are the top contenders. Based on their Prologue Results, the first group consists of the top 24 men and 16 women.

Podium Rankings: The first five finishers of the Otter Race are ranked by the order they cross the finish line.  Only Abangeni athletes are eligible for prize money.

Shuttles to Start: Depart from the Easy Transfers pick-up outside Race Village. Shuttle departures are from 05:15 to 05:30.

Parking: There is limited parking at the Natures Valley Start Venue—carpool if possible. Allow at least 50 minutes of transit from Plettenberg Bay or Storms River Mouth Rest Camp.

Vida e Coffee: Two free coffee vouchers per athlete, provided by Vida e Caffé at the start.

Finish Line Food: A buffet will be available for athletes at the finish.

Post-Race Dinner & Awards: A buffet dinner in Race Village tent. Extra dinner tickets can be purchased at registration (subject to availability). The awards ceremony and race highlights will follow after dinner.

05:15-05:30 / Easy Transfers to Start

06:15  / Start Line Race briefing

06:30 / Abangeni Start

10:30 / First Runners expected at the finish line

16:00 / Course closes

17:30-19:00 / Post-race Dinner in the Race Village Marque

18:00-19:00 / Sunset live music

19:00 / Awards ceremony

Munchie Point: Located near Oakhurst hut (approx. 20km), offering snacks from NAMEDSPORT, ButtaNutt, fruits, nuts, and eggs. This will supplement your energy but won’t suffice for the entire race—come prepared.

Water on the trail: Numerous streams and springs are safe for drinking. Avoid drinking from Coldstream Witels and Lottering Rivers. Use rainwater tanks at overnight huts.

Otter vs Retto: The Otter and Retto routes alternate yearly. The Classic (Otter) is typically 7-10 minutes slower than the Retto, with technical descents and the Bloukrans crossing at the 30km mark adding difficulty.

No supporters on the route: Supporters are only allowed at the start in Natures Valley and the finish in Storms River Rest Camp.

No Littering: Bins are available at overnight stops and checkpoints. Littering will result in disqualification.

Fairness & Doping: Medical checks for doping may be conducted in line with ASA regulations. Refusal or failure to attend these checks will result in disqualification.

Trespassing & Land Traversing: The Otter Trail is only open to trail running on race days. Athletes caught trespassing outside race days will face a lifetime ban and legal consequences from SANParks.