For Rangers Ultra Helps Save the Rhino

Press Release / 03.09.2023

On average, a rhino is poached every sixteen hours. Brave rangers are on the ground combating the African poaching crisis. Tragically, 100 rangers lose their lives in the line of duty every year.

In 2018, Save the Rhino International, ForRangers and Beyond the Ultimate formed a partnership to support these brave rangers and the rhinos they protect. They created a 230km self-sufficient ultra-marathon through four rhino conservancies over five days, with runners supported by the rangers themselves.

100% of the funds raised go to rhino conservation and to projects that improve rangers’ lives. To date, the partnership has raised over £500,000, helping to purchase uniforms and field equipment, and provide vital training and life insurance. 

Jo Shaw, CEO of Save the Rhino International, says, “Save the Rhino are incredibly proud partners in this unique ultra-marathon. Since 2018, the ForRangers Ultra has made a major contribution to conservation projects and the people who make them possible. From providing new training kit, to upgrading and building remote outposts, the funds raised have made a significant difference to the lives of rangers protecting endangered rhinos every day. Our huge thanks to everyone involved in making this event so special.”

On Monday 4th September, an international field of 70 runners will start the fifth iteration of the ForRangers Ultra from the wildlife conservancy and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lewa Conservancy. Along the route, runners will meet the incredible rangers they are raising funds for, whilst sharing the landscape with rhinos, elephants, zebras and other Kenyan wildlife. The race finishes in sight of Mount Kenya, at the equator crossing within the Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

Jon Betts, finisher from 2022 comments, “If you’re looking for the running experience of a lifetime, ForRangers Ultra is tough to beat! The most exhilarating event I’ve ever taken part in. Such a privilege to run amongst the wildlife and meet the brave men and women who protect it. Simply stunning!”

Entries for the ForRangers Ultra 2024 are open now via link below.

Key Links:

Donations: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/forrangersultra2023

Live GPS Tracking: https://btu.extrac.uk/

ForRangers Ultra Information: Ultra Marathon Kenya | Ultra Marathon Africa | For Rangers Ultra (beyondtheultimate.co.uk)