Wild Child Africa is presenting the 2024 iteration of its PONDO Trail Run, scheduled for 22 May to 26 May. This annual event features a one-day ULTRA and a three-day COASTER trail running experience, unfolding amid the breathtaking landscapes of Pondoland, the northern section of the Wild Coast.
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Beyond offering world-class trail running and exceptional hospitality, the event also serves as a platform to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
At the core of the PONDO Trail Run is a commitment to raising funds for charitable endeavours. Building on the achievements of past years, the 2024 edition endeavours to mobilise participants in support of the Pondoland Conservation Trust and Cipla’s Miles for Smiles initiative.
The funds collected will aid conservation initiatives in the area and provide transformative corrective surgeries for children with cleft conditions, reflecting Wild Child Africa’s commitment to giving back to the communities they traverse.
Paul Miller, CEO of Cipla South Africa, highlighted the event’s alignment with their dedication to making a significant impact on people’s lives and local communities.
Miller stated, ‘We don’t have a strategy, we have a cause. We don’t have a vision statement, we have vision. So, we’re excited to join forces with Wild Child Africa to help ensure a future that’s focused on the well-being of people and our beautiful planet.’
Once again, generous sponsor Sealand is partnering with Wild Child Africa in its mission. As a proudly South African lifestyle brand, Sealand shares Wild Child Africa’s dedication to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, making the brand the ideal partner for the PONDO Trail Run.
‘Conservation of our natural playgrounds lies at the heart of our brand’s mission, and finding a partner who not only understands, but actively supports this vision, is truly exhilarating. Together, we can achieve far more than we ever could alone,’ said Sealand CEO Adrian Hewlett.
Devil’s Peak, the renowned local brewing company, renews its partnership with the Wild Child Africa team for this year’s event. They will be stationed at the finish line each day, generously offering participants ice-cold beer to commemorate their outstanding accomplishments on the trail.
Expressing its dedication to this unique experience, Devil’s Peak stated, ‘This is truly a one-of-a-kind journey. We applaud the passion and commitment that Wild Child Africa demonstrates for this region of our country, and we acknowledge their endeavours to preserve its pristine beauty. Participants embark on an unforgettable, life-changing adventure, and we are honoured to be associated with this remarkable event.’
This year’s event, in collaboration with The Wild Coast Sun, introduces the PONDO Trail Run ‘Gift of Warmth’ initiative. As the colder winter months draw near, participants are urged to contribute warm children’s clothing and blankets. These donations will be personally delivered by runners along the trail, enabling them to extend warmth and compassion to children in need.
‘We are honoured to partner with Wild Child Africa for the 2024 PONDO Trail Run and to support their admirable efforts in promoting conservation and community development,’ said Peter Tshidi, Wild Coast Sun general manager.
‘As stewards of this remarkable coastline, we are committed to creating meaningful experiences for our guests while also enriching the lives of local communities and preserving the natural beauty of Pondoland for generations to come.’
‘The 2024 PONDO Trail Run, in collaboration with The Wild Coast Sun, promises to be a celebration of adventure, camaraderie, and philanthropy, leaving a lasting legacy of warmth and compassion in its wake,’ Tshidi said.
The 2024 PONDO Trail Run promises to be an unforgettable journey, filled with challenges, triumphs, purpose and moments of inspiration.
‘We are thrilled to once again invite runners to join us for the PONDO Trail Run, where adventure meets purpose,’ said Matt Botha, founder of Wild Child Africa.
‘Together with our sponsors, participants, and partners, we are not only exploring the wonders of Pondoland, but also making a tangible difference in the lives of others.’
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Picture: Supplied