Every year, we unite in a journey called The Extra Mile. It’s not just a run; it’s a cause brimming with purpose and passion, a unique fusion of our love for running (or walking), community development, and conservation.
For the 6th year running, we are dedicating our 2023 races to both communities and endangered species. Rhino (5km), Pangolin (10km), Wild Dog (21km), and Cape Parrot (Virtual Run) are our chosen icons this year. As we race, we’ll also raise awareness about these species’ urgent need for protection and conservation.
Our Run, Our Cause
Our annual trail run takes us through the heart of the Bushbuckridge community’s villages and the beautiful rangelands bordering the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. It’s our way of shining a spotlight on the need for basic services in these areas. Yet, this event is much more than just a race β it’s a testament to the strength of a united community. It’s where we, along with other runners, locals, businesses, and families, go that extra mile for a stronger, more resilient community.
What’s exciting is that even if we can’t physically be together, we can still be part of this incredible journey. Thanks to our partnership with Two Red Pens, we can go the Extra Mile virtually, no matter where in the world we are.Β
Joining the Extra Mile means we’re not just racing towards a finish line; we’re running with purpose and heart, carrying the hopes of our communities and the needs of our planet with every step.
We have a big goal this year: to hit 1250 registrations for both our Trail and Virtual Run and sponsor 500 community runners. With your help, I know we can do it!
Mark Your Calendars
This year, The Extra Mile Trail & Virtual Run event is scheduled for the Heritage Day long weekend on 23rd September 2023. We’re excited to host this year’s event in the local village of Huntington, bordering the beautiful Sabi Sand Nature Reserve and Kruger National Park. You can join us for a trail run through the communities, or if you can’t be there in person, participate virtually from anywhere in the world. Don’t forget, we also have a pre-registration day on 22nd September and community education days throughout the week of the Trail Run.
Let's Run Together
Together, we are more than just participants in a run; we are hope-bringers and change-makers. Whether we run shoulder to shoulder in the rural villages of Africa or take the virtual route from our corner of the world, every stride counts.
If you can’t join the race, consider sponsoring a community runner. After all, every mile run, every dollar donated, takes us one step closer to bridging the gap between community and conservation.
So, let’s lace up those running shoes, pick our routes, and register now or sponsor a community runner. Together, let’s go the extra mile. Together, let’s make a difference.
Exciting News Alert! The Extra Mile 2023 has been officially recognised as a Vitality Race Event.