The College recently transformed into an electrifying hub of energy and determination as it hosted the highly anticipated Wildlife Ranger Challenge in support of the critical role wildlife rangers play.
Launched by Tusk Trust and funded by the Scheinberg Relief Fund in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 to keep rangers employed through the crisis, the Wildlife Ranger Challenge has grown into an annual celebration of solidarity, connection and camaraderie for the ranger profession. In the lead-up to race day, which took place on Saturday, 21 September, more than 100 teams of rangers from 24 African countries were preparing by testing their physical and mental abilities with a series of mini challenges.
This year, the College together with the Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA) welcomed an impressive line-up of seven official teams and five unofficial teams, all eager to take on the gruelling 21km run designed to push the limits of physical endurance and teamwork. The official teams were those formally registered with Tusk Trust as taking part in the WRC and were required to run in full ranger uniforms and carry 22kg weighted backpacks for men and 10kg weighted backpacks for women.
Among the teams were five fierce squads from the renowned Kruger National Park (KNP), a team from the dynamic Black Mambas, and the proud representatives from the SAWC. Our team—comprising the dedicated Tebogo Malapane, Peace Mahlatse, Clive Ngomane, and Ernest Manyike— eager to prove themselves on this challenging course whilst also raising awareness and championing the work rangers do.
As dawn broke on the day of the event, participants were greeted by an unyielding storm. The weather was a chilly 9 degrees Celsius, complete with pouring rain, howling winds, and the kind of thunder that made you question whether this was a wildlife challenge or a scene from Survivor! Originally scheduled to kick off at 05:45, the race start was postponed to 07:30, allowing teams to fuel up with breakfast and weigh their backpacks under the drumming rain.
Despite the dreary weather, spirits were high. The aerial support was grounded due to the storm, but safety was paramount. Our security teams cruised along the route, ensuring that every runner was well looked after, while each group of runners had a dedicated sweeper car following behind to provide additional support.
When the starting horn finally sounded, the rangers charged ahead, their heavy backpacks a reminder of the real-life challenges they face daily in the wild. The camaraderie was infectious; before the race began, rangers filled the air with songs and laughter, warming themselves up with spirited dancing. Even the spectators couldn’t resist the urge to shed their heavy jackets and join in the fun!
As the runners made their way along the course, the team from the SAWC showcased incredible resilience, finishing second behind the elite Special Operations team from KNP. Remarkably, our squad shaved a full hour off their 2024 time which was ironically run in the gruelling heat, demonstrating both improvement and determination!
As the finish line came into view, the atmosphere exploded with excitement. Students and staff lined the route, cheering wildly, dancing, and singing both the official and unofficial teams (running sans backpacks) home. This seemed to recharge the weary rangers, pushing them to dig deep and cross the finish line with renewed vigour. Some rangers even found the strength to drop and do push-ups. The camaraderie and joy of the day were evident in every smile, every cheer, and every triumphant finish.
The WRC at the SAWC was not just a test of physical prowess but also a celebration of the commitment and passion that drives these dedicated individuals. With laughter, song, and an unyielding spirit, the rangers proved that when it comes to protecting wildlife and wild spaces, they are more than just athletes—they are a united force for conservation.