For those of us in South Africa, it should be common knowledge that rhinos are in grave danger of extinction, hence “The War on Rhino Poaching” phrase. Numerous organisations, governments, and even individuals are stepping up to raise awareness for the plight of these majestic mammals. This is spurring greater efforts to prevent poaching.
Conservation Plans
Recently, a proposed plan was put forward, which would involve chopping off the rhino’s horn, to prevent poachers killing the animals, or maiming them beyond help. This idea was met with mixed reactions, especially as the removed horns would be sold at O.R Tambo International Airport, four times a year, directly to Chinese Traditional Medicine Practitioners. To put it into perspective, the Chinese practitioners and providers are the main reason behind the rhino’s horns being poached in the first place.
For the majority of the general public, myself included, there isn’t really much we can do to support conservation efforts apart from donations, signing petitions, or volunteering our time at rehabilitation and conservation centres. However, if you have an active spirit and a burning drive to make a difference, then the Rhino Run is the perfect way to take a more active stand.
Origins of the Rhino Run
The Rhino Run was conceptualised by a South African gentleman called Sian, who witnessed the after-effects of the brutal removal of two rhino horns at Kariega Game Reserve. Of the two rhinos de-horned at the Reserve, Thandi and Themba, Thandi was the worst for wear. She was discovered lying down, surrounded by a pool of blood, with pieces of her face hanging down around her, and deep hack marks around where her horn had once been. The rest of her body displayed evidence that she had tried, but failed to stop her attackers. Her shallow breathing didn’t bode well, and no one thought she would survive.
But they were all wrong. Thandi struggled and fought, and refused to give up despite the agonising pain she must have been in. As of now, Thandi has physically recovered from her injuries, though the scabbed-over patch of skin on her face is a reminder to all who see her, of the devastating after-effects of being poached.
Being a die-hard lover of trail running, Sian realised that organising this run was a great way to combine his love of nature with his determination not to let another marvellous animal become extinct due to mans greed. As such, on World Rhino Day, the 22nd of September, the Rhino Run will officially be launched. The best news is that you can participate no matter where in the world you are!
Rhino Run 2012
There are four Global Rhino Clubs – two in Gauteng, South Africa, one in Georgia USA, and one in Perth, Western Australia.
In South Africa, the run will be taking place in Cape Town, Durban, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Port Elizabeth on the 22nd of September. Early-bird race entrants who register before the run date can purchase a limited edition Rhino Run New Balance race T-shirt. Those who enter on the day are certainly welcome to participate in the trail run, provided there is still space.
For international runners who are interested in participating, you are encouraged to do your own trail run at a nearby trail of your choice. You can then post pictures of the run, along with quotes and thoughts, and send them in to the Rhino Run website. These entries will be posted on their Facebook page and site. To paraphrase the official website: Even if you’re running alone in your home country, you’ll be joined in spirit by the thousands who are taking the time to do their trail run on World Rhino Day.
If you’re not quite as active as the speedsters above, or suffer from a disability, then you can still help out by donating online to this inspiring cause. This is one of those times I’m not afraid to say, “Your contribution will make a difference”.
Image Credits
Main image – By Marc_Smith (Flickr)
Second image – By jnissa (Flickr)
Third image by Rhino Run
