A total of 48 invited ambassadors, including school participants and a mix representing WACT and EWT, set off at 6:30 am from the RPC start line on Saturday. It started as a misty cool morning, with the Rhino Peak hidden from sight, but still present in everyone’s minds. The weather soon cleared up with the Underberg in full colour and all its glory. You seldom escape the wind on the mountains, and this year was no different. If anything, one of the strongest winds I have ever experienced. But the escarpment and the summiting of the peak is always a special and humbling experience. Not to take on the mountain, but to be part of it. However brief. To be part of nature and something that has stood majestically and purposefully through millennia.

The intensity of the climb and the diversity of people that the challenge attracts was apparent in this years finishing times. With our fastest ambassador home in 3hours 19 minutes, and the longest day on the mountain closer to 14 hours!

But this is why our RPC ambassadors do what they do. To protect, appreciate and conserve. To realise that everything is connected. To be immersed in nature, and all of its harsh and beautiful elements, for a magical moment in time.

Thank you to Spurgeon Flemmington from RMA (Running Man Adventures) for knowing that this mountain and this event would raise millions for conservation.

To the event beneficiary partners, WACT and KZN Ezemvelo, whom we work with to protect this important heritage site and the species and people that rely on it.

To every ambassador that not only takes on the challenge of fundraising but of summiting the peak.

To all the EWT ambassadors and personal incredible donors such as the Ford Wildlife Foundation and Go2Africa for supporting our work. This event would not be possible without you, and conservation thanks you.