Enduring gruelling physical conditions, carrying 25kg packs in heavy boots on patrol, often lacking essentials and with very little remuneration, game rangers literally put their lives on the line every day, all in the name of conservation. Run for Rangers is a chance to show these selfless individuals support, raise funds for their good work, and to answer the burning question: ‘Are you as tough as a ranger?’.
The 4th edition of Run for Rangers – in partnership with Project Rhino and Sports for Lives – is taking place from 25 to 28 July 2025 at Babanango Game Reserve in northern Zululand. There are 24 confirmed runners and 15 rangers currently competing in the 2-day, 100km race, with limited spaces remaining for those who want to sign up.
Taking up the Challenge
Having grown up travelling to some of the most remote places in Africa, led by a father committed to conservation, Harry Bailey – founder of Run for Rangers – drew on his upbringing and challenged himself to give something back to the world.
“While at Hilton College [KZN Midlands], I met the incredible people behind Sport for Lives and was given a chance to join them on one of their biggest campaigns. It was during this amazing journey that I realised I could do something too,” explained Bailey. “I have been very fortunate to go to great schools and be raised in a wonderful family, and I didn’t want that to go to waste.”
Brainstorming with his father and renowned conservationist, Grant Fowlds from the Project Rhino team, Bailey said the idea for Run for Rangers emerged. The event started as a personal journey for Bailey in 2022, when he completed the 100km challenge in two days.
“The response was incredible. The idea was initially small with the focus centred on overcoming personal challenges; I was born very prematurely with a lot of health problems that have held me back, and this challenge was a way to push beyond my limits and overcome my issues through determination,” explained Bailey.
The next year, more were invited to both raise awareness and funds for rangers, with the initial goal of raising R50 000, which more than tripled to R162 000 by the end. The following year, Run for Rangers raised an incredible R600 000, gaining a host of new sponsors with a far-reaching impact. This year, the sky is the limit!
“Thanks to Project Rhino, the funds raised from Run for Rangers go directly to the specific needs of rangers – from the basics of supplying rangers with better equipment, or buying horse and dog feed, to helping fund incredible environmental operations such as rhino dehorning.
“Sport for Lives has helped by giving us a platform and sharing the story, allowing for more widespread information on the plight and danger of ranger work, helping to uplift the narrative of the ranger and give them more of the spotlight they deserve.”
Other ways funds are used include:
· Training to assist the K9 unit
· Aerial support
· Community education and engagement
· Creating more awareness about the work done by rangers
· Creating awareness about Project Rhino
· Rangers and their families
What Runners Can Expect
Participants can look forward to an incredible challenge designed to push them to their limits! This is also an incredible chance to get a glimpse of the work rangers do daily. Rangers will run alongside the participants, sharing their stories and helping them better understand the vital role they play in wildlife protection.
Babanango Game Reserve offers participants a truly breathtaking landscape during the run. This Big 5 game reserve also has top-class facilities for much-needed rest at the end of the day. Participants are given a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a truly spectacular part of the country, all the while supporting conservation.
Are you as tough as a ranger?
Prove it by signing up for the 2025 Run for Rangers event now! There are limited spaces remaining, so participants are encouraged to secure a spot now for this premium adventure event!
When: 25 to 28 July 2025
Where: Babanango Game Reserve, KZN
Distance: 100km
How to Enter: All participants have to raise a minimum of R40 000 to enter (more if possible)! This covers all race expenses, and contributes towards the fundraising initiative.
Enter: Visit www.runforrangers.net or enter HERE
There are also ways to support the Run for Rangers cause without competing!
· Support a runner
· Donate to the cause
· Buy ranger merchandise
Simply visit www.runforrangers.net or follow @RunforRangers on Instagram for more information.