In the race to protect our natural heritage, runners are preparing to do their part again! Last year, nearly R1 million was raised for the SANParks Honorary Rangers and their conservation efforts through the Comrades’ charity channels. Now, the takkies on the ground are preparing to do it again.
South Africa (10 March 2025) — While events like the Comrades Marathon come and go, the race to protect our natural heritage is ongoing. Leveraging the Ultimate Human Race for long-term environmental good, hope has (and will) drum through the mightiest marathon in the form of determined runners. Their efforts—in the hours leading up to and on race day—have significantly impacted support for conservation efforts before. And they’re ready to do it again.
In 2024, close to R1 million was raised for the SANParks Honorary Rangers as one of the Comrades Marathon Association’s six official AmaBeadiBeadi charities. A volunteer organisation, the Honorary Rangers offer a vital helping hand to missions across the country. Beyond work on the ground, a big part of what they do is fundraising for SANParks.
These funds were spread to different areas of need, including the South African National Parks’ K9 anti-poaching units in the Table Mountain and Kruger National Parks, as well as for the rangers themselves through ‘Project Embrace’.
The K9 national project stands as a critical defence against a major challenge to conservation—poaching. Project Embrace, on the other hand, provides trauma counselling and support for field rangers and their families. As one can imagine, these rangers—whose nature of work is inherently dangerous—deeply benefit from help in the realm of well-being.
As Ian Catt, Treasurer KwaZulu-Natal Region of SANParks Honorary Rangers and Chairman of the SHR Comrades organising committee, explains:
“The support offered through Project Embrace supports field rangers whose demanding and often dangerous duties can lead to burnout and stress. This programme helps to promote ranger well-being and equips them to safeguard lives and wildlife effectively.”
With 2024’s success in mind, the Honorary Rangers are ready to race toward even more support in 2025.
An Even More Meaningful Marathon
If you’re tired of feeling frustrated about the plight that wildlife and many ecosystems face, this is a fantastic chance to help the helpers.
Runners passionate about conservation can choose SANParks Honorary Ranger as their preferred charity through the Race4Charity Platform and help them raise funds for conservation while participating in the marathon on 8 June.
“Our members across the country are ready to support runners who join our cause, and we look forward to encouraging all the runners as they make their way through our watering ‘hole’ on race day,” adds Ian.
When you race for a reason, you’re not only giving yourself even more motivation but also helping protect what is most precious.
Those seeking more information can get in touch with the Honorary Rangers via comrades@sanparksvolunteers.org.
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