A spirited morning on the trails brought runners, walkers and supporters together in Pretoria to celebrate community, conservation and every step taken for HERD’s elephants.
Pretoria, South Africa (26 August 2026) – There’s nothing like a good morning run to get the blood flowing and spirits high, especially when every step supports HERD’s elephants and the work the organisation does to care for them. On Sunday, 16 August, supporters gathered in Pretoria for a morning of movement, community and conservation.
A total of 246 participants laced up their trail shoes and gathered at Hedianga Farm Trails in Pretoria for HERD’s fourth annual Trails for Trunks event.
This year brought a new trail at Hedianga Farm Trails, fresh challenges and plenty of determination as participants took on distances from 2 km to 15 km. The steep inclines and loose rocks certainly put everyone to the test, but nothing could dampen the spirit of the morning. Whether they were athletes, walkers or beginners, each participant pushed forward for a great cause.
The elephant conservation organisation shared that Trails for Trunks has become an important fixture on HERD’s annual fundraising calendar, giving supporters a practical way to show their love and support. This year’s turnout of 246 entries marked another successful chapter in the event’s growth and reflected increasing support for HERD’s conservation and community initiatives.
As in the past, participants showed their support by dressing up wild, and it was a struggle to crown the best dressed for the day.
“We loved seeing everyone getting into the spirit of the day and dressing up wild! After much debate, our best dressed winners were a wonderfully colourful group of ladies and one cape-wearing gentleman,” HERD said.
Those who loved the cause but couldn’t be in Pretoria were still able to take part virtually. Supporters from around the world joined in by walking, running and moving for elephants wherever they were.
“Thank you to everyone who joined us virtually and shared their journeys with us.”
After a wonderful day of wildlife conservation in action on the wilderness trails, HERD expressed heartfelt thanks to all participants, volunteers, sponsors, vendors and everyone who helped make Trails for Trunks possible.
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Sources: HERD – Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development
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