As the sport gains traction locally, South African runners and their dogs can now dream of one day competing on the world stage under the country’s official Canicross banner.
Johannesburg, South Africa (09 June 2026) – A sport that combines trail running, adventure and the special bond between people and their dogs is rapidly gaining momentum in South Africa, and it has just reached a major international milestone.
Canicross South Africa has officially been accepted as a full member of the International Canicross Federation (ICF), opening the door for South African athletes and their dogs to one day compete at the World Championship level.
For Vikki Richardson, the achievement marks a significant step in a journey that began with a simple desire to spend more time outdoors with her Rhodesian Ridgeback.
“In very simple terms, Canicross is you going for a run with your dog and you are connected via a bungee leash. The dog has a special comfortable pulling-type harness on it and you have a running belt. It’s about a connection and a fun adventure with your dog.”
While the sport has become well established across Europe and other parts of the world, Vikki discovered there was very little organised Canicross activity available locally.
“A few years ago, I got a Rhodesian Ridgeback and I started having these lovely romantic notions of going out on the trails with him and exploring the most amazing countryside that we have in South Africa.”
As she researched the best equipment for her dog, she stumbled across the thriving international Canicross community. That realisation sparked a mission to introduce and formalise the sport in South Africa while ensuring it met the highest international welfare standards from the outset. The response has exceeded expectations.
In just a few months, four Canicross clubs have already been established, with two operating in Johannesburg and two in Cape Town. Another two clubs are expected to launch in the coming weeks.
“We have a very high percentage of dog ownership and very limited opportunities like this where we can all come together in a safe, structured environment and bring our dogs out, socialise and be in the great outdoors with our animals.”
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For some, the weekly social runs are about fitness. For others, they are about community.
“It’s not just about the running. It’s about belonging in this group of people. It’s about feeling completely included and part of this group.”
The social runs are carefully managed according to international rules and welfare guidelines, ensuring a safe experience for both dogs and owners. Even though participants run together as a pack, dogs are not permitted to directly interact during the runs.
The structured approach has also created opportunities for dogs that may otherwise struggle in traditional social environments. The benefits extend beyond dogs, too. Owners gain confidence, spend more time outdoors and become part of a supportive community built around a shared love of animals and nature.
Now, with South Africa officially recognised as a full member nation of the International Canicross Federation, the future looks even brighter.
“This really opens the door for us. If we have South Africans who would like to take this to the next level and become more competitive in their Canicross endeavours, it’s a huge step forward for us as South Africans.”
For now, however, the focus remains on growing the community, welcoming newcomers and creating happier, healthier lives for both people and their dogs.
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