A WILD ride for conservation at Africa’s Oldest Game Reserve
This year’s STIHL iMfolozi MTB Challenge marked its 17th cycle ride after a one-year sabbatical due to Covid-19 pandemic. Although staged under very strict Covid-19 protocols, the WILDTRUST was honoured and excited to host over 300 riders at the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, on the 26th of June 2021.
Instrumental to the staging of this ride in the wild was headline sponsor STIHL as well as Sanlam, KZN Ezemvelo Wildlife and Impi Concept Events as they collaborated to raise funds for rhino conservation and combating wildlife crime at the reserve.
Over R200 000 was raised for the conservation efforts within the reserve and a special mention goes to the group of 10 riders who came together under the banner of Ride 4 Rangers. This group was spearheaded by WILDTRUST Trustee, Peter Bode, Financial Director of National Edging. Further to these contributions, we are truly grateful to all the riders who donated their meal tickets towards supporting KZN Ezemvelo Wildlife’s orphaned rhino programme. These funds will be used to buy the much-needed feed to sustain the rhino orphans under their care.
“The WILDTRUST is incredibly grateful to everyone who participated in this year’s event and everyone who made additional donations towards safeguarding our environment and protecting the wildlife that cannot protect itself,” comments WILDTRUST CEO, Dr Roelie Kloppers.
“A huge thank you to our long-time supporters STIHL, and Sanlam for their incredible support and financial contribution that made this event possible turning it into the success that it was. We are also grateful to KZN Ezemvelo for opening the park to allow our participants to take time off to reconnect with nature. Finally, we would also like to thank our brave riders for their unwavering support during this time and we look forward to hosting you again next year, under more relaxed social conditions,” concluded Stuart Berry, race organiser and director of Impi Concept Events.
