“One of the top ten races to run in your life.” -- Runner’s World
Tusk’s Lewa Safari Marathon invites participants from all over the globe to compete in an internationally acclaimed event, running through one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife conservancies. Regarded by Runner’s World as one of the world’s top ten “must do” marathons, runners of all abilities take part. The event has become one of Kenya’s major sporting events. Individuals and corporate teams enjoy an unforgettable experience running alongside some of Africa’s most amazing wildlife and witnessing firsthand the difference made by the funds raised.
The 2021 marathon was another virtual extravaganza, taking place on Saturday 26th June.
Held in partnership with Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, the unique marathon has raised millions of dollars to fund Tusk supported wildlife conservation and community development in Kenya over the last 21 years. From recovering Kenya’s black rhino population from the brink of extinction, protecting the world’s critically endangered Grevy’s zebra, and providing healthcare, water and improved infrastructure for communities, to supporting Lewa education programmes, the funds this marathon raises are invaluable to thousands across the country.
However, these projects now face perhaps their greatest challenge to date – mounting a recovery plan in the face of social and economic crises. The Covid-19 pandemic’s harsh legacy will continue for many years to come. And with a third wave of the virus crashing its way through the continent, the 2021 marathon was cancelled – again, leaving communities even more vulnerable than before.
So, for the second year running, the Lewa Safari Marathon went virtual on the 26th of June and runners everywhere were encouraged to lace up their shoes and join the challenge, in support of Kenya’s communities and wildlife.
The 2021 Virtual Lewa Safari Marathon saw almost 1,500 runners from 46 countries all around the world take to their local streets, tracks and parks in support of Kenya’s wildlife and communities.
It was tough - tougher than anything I’d been faced with before and required every inch of my energy, stamina and stubbornness... What got me through was the knowledge of what we were raising money for, the children who sang for us in their classroom built by Tusk and the communities that will benefit from a new reservoir. This is what the Safari Marathon is about.
With your generous support, Tusk can, and will, continue to make a lasting difference for the wildlife and people of Africa. More than 80% of your donation will go directly towards the cause.
There are lots of fun and fantastic ways to get involved and raise much needed funds for Tusk and our work in Africa. We’re here to support you along the way…
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Pippa Middleton - Full Marathon competitor 2015