Run For Rangers – Babanango 2023
ARE YOU AS TOUGH AS A RANGER?
Date: 22-25 September
(Arrive Friday afternoon, depart Monday morning).
Background
Founded by Harry Bailey, who was 18 at the time, Run For Rangers is a totally unique event, which involves a fully immersive experience at the most exciting game reserve in South Africa: Babanango Game Reserve.
By participating, you will not only challenge yourself physically, but also contribute directly to the welfare and safety of our rangers on the frontlines.
This year, you are invited to join Harry, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, for the annual Run for Rangers event, as he once again aims to build on his legacy to raise awareness and funds to support and honour our dedicated park rangers.
The beneficiaries of the funds: Project Rhino powered by the Sport for Lives movement, will aim at continuing to help the courageous men and women who protect our precious natural resources.
Babanango Game Reserve, located in the heart of Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal, is a showcase for one of the most ambitious rewilding projects in Southern Africa in recent years. Set among the breathtaking topography of the upper White Umfolozi River Valley, the reserve occupies a vast wilderness area of over 20,000 hectares that is steeped in Zulu history and layered upon geological features that date back to the beginning of time.
The rugged mountains and valleys provide refuge for an extraordinary diversity of birds, plants, insects, reptiles, and mammals, including the elusive aardvark and aardwolf. Visitors to Babanango Game Reserve can be assured of an unrivaled safari experience due to highly knowledgeable guides and a range of activities to choose from. Significant historical battle sites, such as Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, are located close by.
The Actual Run:
Day 1 – 50 km (Start near Zulu Rock Lodge and end at Valley Family Luxury Lodge).
Day 2 – 50 km (Start near Zulu Rock Lodge and end at Madwaleni Ultra Luxury River Lodge).
Total Distance:
100 km at an average pace of between 7-9min per km (with support and protection vehicles).
- There will be water and snacks en route to keep you fuelled during your run. A mouth-watering lunch stop will be enjoyed on both days, along with the incredible views of the area.
- This is not your conventional run. It is not a race. Rather, through showcasing our solidarity for these unsung heroes and our commitment to environmental conservation, the Run For Rangers Babanango Challenge 2023 welcomes participants who will create a united front as we run. Whether you are an experienced runner, or just starting your fitness journey, this run is for you.
NB:
- The field is limited to 20 runners.
- Runners will need to raise a minimum of R30 000 to secure their place to be part of this incredible event, by 10 August 2023. The more you raise, the more luxurious accommodation you get, thanks to the generous support of Babanango Game Reserve for making this offer available.
- This offer is inclusive of: all accommodation (3 x Nights in a luxury lodge), all meals, snacks and hydration during the run, support vehicles, onsite medical care, onsite physios, race garments (jacket, 2 x shirts), race pack and a limited edition unique Run for Rangers Trophy for those runners who finish all 100 km.
- All transport arrangements to and from the event must be done at a runner’s own expense. All additional drinks are not included.
- Partners are welcome at a special discounted rate.
Lodge 1
(for the runners who raise the most funds) –
Madwaleni River Lodge is unfenced, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the surrounding natural beauty. The lodge features twelve luxury tents. Each tent is renowned for its unique design and has received award-winning distinction, offering unrivaled comfort and style.
Luxury Tents: Indulge in the epitome of luxury within the exquisite tents at Madwaleni River Lodge. Each tent is a haven of opulence, featuring its own private heated plunge pool, inviting you to unwind and bask in the tranquility. With indoor and outdoor lounges boasting breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness, you can relax and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The elegant copper bathroom fixtures add a touch of sophistication, while the air-conditioned rooms are equipped with cutting-edge technology, including iPads for seamless food and beverage orders, ensuring a convenient and effortless stay.
Lodge 2
Nestled in the south of Babanango Game Reserve, Valley Lodge offers a serene escape in nature. Its nine adjourning luxury rooms provide splendid views of indigenous gardens designed by horticulturalist Chris Dalzell. Unlike others, it is fenced off for safety, privacy, and exclusivity. Guests can enjoy panoramic views from infinity pools or relax by the fireplace. The library offers books on local history and bird species. In the evening, the outdoor boma with a firepit creates a cozy atmosphere.
Valley Lodge presents a selection of opulent rooms, meticulously furnished with upscale amenities, to guarantee an indulgent and delightful experience for guests. Every room is thoughtfully equipped with luxurious features such as heated bathroom floors and towel racks, ensuring a truly comfortable and pampering stay.
Â
SIGN UP FOR THE RACE TODAY:
Click HERE to Run for Rangers
Or Click here to donate to the campaign.
This unique run, through this exhilarating game reserve, is sure to keep your heart rate up, as the run winds itself along gravel roads, over the White Umfolozi, through the diverse surrounding valleys, and up onto the escarpment with the most breath-taking views in the area.
Spread the word and invite your friends, family, and colleagues to join us on this inspiring run. Together, we can amplify our impact and support the invaluable work of our park rangers.
ARE YOU AS TOUGH AS A RANGER?
