PONDO Trail Run: initiative with an aim

Walking on the wild side: Some of the participants during last year’s Pondo Trail Run. | ARCHIVES

Walking on the wild side: Some of the participants during last year’s Pondo Trail Run. | ARCHIVES

Published May 8, 2024

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Durban — Wild Child Africa, the pioneering force behind the highly anticipated PONDO Trail Run, has announced the Wild Coast Sun Resort as an official partner for the 2024 edition of the event.

Set against the backdrop of the breathtaking Pondoland coastline, this year’s trail running adventure promises an unforgettable experience, coupled with a commitment to community upliftment through the race’s new "Gift of Warmth" initiative.

The trail run, scheduled for 22 - 26 May, is set up in two formats: the Ultra 103km run in a single stage, or the three-day Coaster done in legs of 36km, 34km and 33km.

Walking on the wild side: Some of the participants during last year’s Pondo Trail Run. | ARCHIVES

As partners for the 2024 PONDO Trail Run, Wild Coast Sun serves as the official start venue, welcoming participants with renowned hospitality and world-class amenities. Runners will have the opportunity to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead in the resort's tranquil surroundings.

Wild Coast Sun has joined Wild Child Africa in its commitment to community development with the "Gift of Warmth" initiative. With the colder winter months approaching, participants are encouraged to contribute warm children’s clothing and blankets. These donations will be collected at registration, and later hand-delivered by participants to children at local schools along the route.

This will run alongside the event’s other two fundraising beneficiaries, the Pondoland Conservation Trust and Cipla’s “Miles for Smiles” initiative, which to date has sponsored facial reconstructive surgery for over 40 children in Pondoland in need of cleft lip and palate procedures.

Wild Child Africa with children from the Pondoland community last year. Picture supplied

"Our partnership with Wild Coast Sun embodies our shared values of hospitality, conservation, and community empowerment," said Matt Botha, owner and founder of Wild Child Africa.

"Together, we aim to provide an unparalleled trail running experience and make a tangible difference in the lives of those living along our spectacular route."

The collaboration between Wild Child Africa and Wild Coast Sun underscores a mutual commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The resort's robust sustainability strategy aligns seamlessly with Wild Child Africa's ethos of environmental stewardship and community engagement, ensuring that the PONDO Trail Run leaves a positive impact on both people and the planet.

Peter Tshidi, Wild Coast Sun General Manager, said that as stewards of this remarkable coastline, they were committed to creating meaningful experiences for guests.

Walking on the wild side: Some of the participants during last year’s Pondo Trail Run. | ARCHIVES

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