2023 Ambassadors

Alexander & Riley Babich

Age: 57

Hometown: Johannesburg

Occupation: Independent financial advisor and employee benefits consultant

About me:

Making a difference with passion and purpose. Living life with positivity and resilience. Love nature, my family, work and our country Enjoy exploring and adventures with my wife and family. Favourite places: Zambezi and Okovango Favourite animal : Wild Dog /Painted Wolves Favourite saying: animals are normal people are crazy. Actually my dogs are my favorite animals next to those in the wild. Next life would come back as David Attenborough.

Sporting bio:

Love trail running, hiking, tennis, squash, golf, Tiger fishing ( release )and mountain climbing. A few recent adventures: Wild Coast Challenge 115km , Rhino Peak Challenge, The Peninsula Marathon and Two Oceans. Disclaimer: night before Two Oceans got serious stomach bug . Tap water e-coli?? Future: climbing Mount Stanley in Uganda one of the sources of the Nile. Also doing Namibia Challenge 5 day dessert run. Once ran with San Bushman in the Kagadigadi pans in Botswana it was surreal.

Reason for taking challenge:

Helping protect and conserve endangered species and ecosystems. Raise awareness and meaningfully support those dedicated people protecting and caring for our natural heritage for future generations. Have fun running with my daughter in the Drakensburg, a world heritage area. Drinking pure mountain water , laughing with friends and sharing ideas over a Gin and Tonic under an African night sky filled with stars

Personal sponsor:

Canon

Alexander Babich & Associates

36ONE Asset Management

UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere Reserve

Prime Investments

The Rhisotope Project

Angus Morton

Age: 32

Hometown: Johannesburg (grew up and finished my schooling in Durban)

Occupation: Event Management

About me:

I am a son, brother, husband, and father (to three mini-Schnauzers). Although I've never formally been diagnosed, I'm pretty sure I have some form of functional ADHD. I can't sit still for long periods of time and need to keep my mind busy with a multitude of things.

As a result, I wear several hats:

1. My main source of income comes from my own business, africaMASSIVE. In short, we do conferencing, events, and travel, with a focus on ecology related and academic projects. Website: https://africamassive.co.za/

2. One of my main passions in life is trauma medicine. I am a first responder in the greater Midrand (Johannesburg) area and also share the knowledge as a Stop the Bleed instructor (https://www.stopthebleed.org/) which is accredited through the American College of Surgeons, and is owned by the American Department of the Defense.

3. Sharing the spotlight with trauma medicine, is my passion for security and law enforcement. I am currently the SCF/CPF Operations & Patrols coordinator for Midrand Sector 5. We report to the Midrand SAPS Station and are their partners in policing. In addition, I am Head of Security for my neighbourhood, Barbeque Downs, in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg, which has several thousand residents. In past years, I have also served on Anti-Poaching Units and led Farm Security (Anti-stock Theft) teams.

4. Last but not least, is my love for everything living and found in nature. Whether it’s diving the ocean, spending time in the bush, or walking pangolins going through rehabilitation, I want to see/help/save everything and anything!

Sporting bio:

I have been active and done sport from the moment I could walk. For me, besides the obvious health benefits, sport teaches discipline and allows you to meet many people from all walks of life. In high-school, I did almost every sport our school offered, and by the end of matric, was part of several 1st teams. I also represented KZN in some of these sports. Nowadays, I do whatever I can to stay active... From hiking, rock-climbing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, to golf, padel, and swimming (to name a few), I'm keen to do it!

Reason for taking challenge:

To highlight the phenomenal beneficiaries, and raise as much money for their projects as possible!

Personal sponsor:

Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital

africaMASSIVE

Annie and Brett

Age: 35

Hometown: Umdloti, South Africa

Occupation: Conservation and Sales

About me:

Brett is from KZN and Annie is originally from the USA. Brett grew up with a strong appreciation and love for South Africa's incredible biodiversity and natural landscapes. Annie arrived 8 years ago and has made this incredible country her home. They are both qualified field guides and love a good game drive and sun downer! When Brett and Annie aren't on a game viewer looking for wildlife in Kruger, Hluhlwe-iMfolozi or one of the smaller reserves across SA, (or working), they're trail running, hiking or mountain biking across the berg, bush, or beach. They live together with their cat Bennett in Umdloti, KZN.

Sporting bio:

Brett: - Golfer - Comrades - 2 Oceans Ultra - Lesotho Ultra Trail, 3 Cranes, Golden Gate Trail - Dusi Canoe Marathon Annie - Not a golfer ;) - Cycling (roadie before, mountain bike now!) - 2 Oceans Ultra, Peninsula Marathon, DNT, Mnweni Both: - Every fun trail run we can join! - Organise weekly 5k's and trail runs in our community

Reason for taking challenge:

“I wish the world was twice as big and half of it was still unexplored” – Sir David Attenborough. The team at the EWT are doing such an incredible job of protecting our natural world. It’s always a such great privilege spending time in our parks and reserves; it’s home, and therefore we feel that it’s our duty to lend a hand in support of these sorts of initiatives however possible.

Brandie Wettstein

Age: 47

Hometown: Basel, Switzerland

Occupation: Self employed

About me:

I was born in Port Moody, British Columbia, Canada. It's a little town on the west coast just outside of Vancouver. I lost my parents at an early age but was lucky enough to grow up with my grandparents. My sister, aunts, uncles and cousins were also a huge part of my life. As a family, we used to go camping and spend hours boating or hiking or fishing. In my early 20s, I took a job as an au pair in Switzerland and finally left Canada for the first time. Living in the heart of Europe, I discovered my love for travel. Growing up I never imagined I would have such an opportunity. I met wonderful, amazing people who I still consider "family" today. I also met Martin, who I would marry years later. After 3 years in Switzerland, I never lived back in British Columbia. I moved to Toronto for a year, then San Diego, California for several years, and then to a small town in Austria for a year. In 2010, I settled in Riehen, Switzerland, just outside of Basel. I feel blessed to live here, surrounded by natural beauty and friends who have become family.  My husband Martin and I have been together 15 years (married 13) but have known each other since my first trip to Switzerland almost 25 years ago.  We have an 11-year-old daughter, Emma, who has developed our love for travel and inspires us to do what we can to make the world a better place for her to explore and live in.  We want her to think of herself as a world citizen and try to set that example—not just for her sake but for that of future generations

Sporting bio:

As a child, I played a lot of sports. Softball, basketball, volleyball, and waterpolo mainly, but I have always loved trying new activities. I didn’t discover my love for running until I turned 40. I had a few really good years, ran more than a dozen half marathons, and even ran a marathon at 43.  That was an amazing experience.  Unfortunately, I was injured soon after. After a few years of recovery, I'm finally pain free but running solely for fun. I also love to hike and bike ride.

Reason for taking challenge:

I have participated in Rhino Peak virtually the last few years. Each year I challenge myself to raise more money and, more importantly, more awareness. I created Team Hank in 2021. While volunteering with Wildlife ACT in the iconic Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game reserve, Hank was the first black rhino I ever saw in the wild.  Last year, I had the honor of teaming up with Ambassador Patrick Ruegg. We met on my first visit to Wildlife ACT in 2019 and coincidently live an hour apart here in Switzerland. We had a lot of fun reaching and surpassing our fundraising goal.  So of course when Patrick nominated me for this year's race, I couldn't say no.   Since my first visit, I have returned to Wildlife Act several times and even had the opportunity to volunteer with my husband and daughter. Being a volunteer with Wildlife ACT, working alongside the monitors and fellow volunteers and meeting park staff, anti-poaching units and reserve veterinarians has given me a real sense of what conservation looks like.  And this motivates me to try to do what I can to help this important work So why take the Rhino Peak challenge?  Generally, because I strongly believe in a few mantras:  Actions speak louder than words.  A true act of kindness always sparks another. And more personally, to show my daughter Emma that by working together we can do great things. By taking part in Rhino Peak, my hope is to not only reach my fundraising goal but to create more awareness for this amazing platform. I want to try and encourage people to help in any way they can. To understand that no contribution is too small. And to remind ourselves how fragile this planet is and how sad the future would be losing another species.

Francois le Roex

Age: 28

Hometown: Cape Town

Occupation: Renewable Energy Development: Assistant Project Manager

About me:

I grew up on a farm near Prince Albert which peaked my appreciation and love of the outdoors from a young age with trips to the Kruger and Kgalagadi being some of my favourite memories. My general approach to life is to keep things simple, to appreciate the little things in life, and to take the road less travelled – preferably in a 4x4. These fundamentals have led me into fascinating studies and enabled me to work as an avifaunal specialist - ultimately exploring diverse environments throughout southern Africa. I have recently changed tack and joined a phenomenal company developing renewable energy projects in South Africa.

Sporting bio:

Throughout high school I loved playing hockey, squash and waterpolo with surfing squeezed into the schedule wherever possible. My interest in trail running began shortly thereafter. It is a simple and fulfilling sport, this helped by the sure abundance of incredible trails we have in Table Mountain National Park and the surrounds. Trail running is one of my favourite ways to explore new spaces in unfamiliar environments. On a more personal note, trail running has become somewhat therapeutic, I find that the space and exposure to nature is incredibly invigorating with very few runs being incapable of curing a bad day.

Reason for taking challenge:

A colleague of mine had the privilege of participating in the Rhino Peak Challenge in 2022 and has graciously passed on the challenge baton to me this year. I have spent very little time in the Drakensberg so I jumped at the opportunity! Ultimately, the Rhino Peak Challenge presents an excellent opportunity to raise awareness amongst friends, family and colleagues for excellent conservation causes.

Gordon Reid

Age: 50

Hometown: Durban North

Occupation: Financial Planner

About me:

As a renowned philanthropist and proud Durbanite, Gordon Reid has devoted his energy towards community upliftment and charitable pursuits, ever since his "healthy midlife crisis" which kicked in age 40. Having accumulated more than 4500 kilometres on the trot, in pursuit of raising funds for CHOC, Gordon turned his attention towards supporting the most forgotten members of society, and the people who need the most help. Initiating his "healthy midlife crisis" after several health complications of his own, Gordon became intuitively aware of the struggles beyond his frame of reference. Inspired by the activities of the CHOC Cows, he soon joined ranks with the team, going on to help raise more than R7 Million for children diagnosed with cancer within his 6-year tenure on the committee. Now age 50 Gordon has since moved onto helping smaller charities and works with Traderoot Active raising money for Rainbows and Smiles, Salt40 and even did The Rhino Ride last year to help Rhino Conservation in Manyoni. Whether it's hiking, biking, walking, swimming, triathlons, or cycling the Amashova on an ice-cream bike, handcycle or tandem with one of his daughters, Gordon is ready for action (and could save you from a plane crash too - ask him about this!) As he focuses his efforts, combining his natural agility and sales talent, Gordon has founded Get Hands On Events - Events for Good. Get Hands On Events was launched as part of the 24-Hour Handcycle Relay Race. This race saw participants pedalling in 2019, raising money to support Ethembeni School in Cato Ridge. Through coordinating, implementing, and participating in this event, Gordon and the Get Hands On Events team raised more than R50 000 for the school. Moving ahead, Gordon planned to unlock new avenues of value generation for sponsors, charitable organisations, and community-focused initiatives. The plan for 2020 was to launch a series of significant, off-the-wall, yet deeply meaningful events that would have rolled out, to raise money for kids with cancer. As we all know, however, events and races were summarily cancelled or postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. 2020's schedule had included a series of events entitled "Run the Mall for Kids with Cancer" and several other races. Last year Gordon and a few friends who all turned 50 entered and completed the Mount-Aux-Sources Challenge and successfully finished. Please feel free to have a look at my socials. Instagram: @luckygordy_ 3598 followers Facebook: Gords Reid 2969 friends Twitter @luckygordy 9000 followers

Sporting bio:

Initiating his "healthy midlife crisis" after several health complications of his own, Gordon became intuitively aware of the struggles beyond his frame of reference. Inspired by the activities of the CHOC Cows, he soon joined ranks with the team, going on to help raise more than R7 Million for children diagnosed with cancer within his 6-year tenure on the committee. Now age 50 Gordon has since moved onto helping smaller charities and works with Traderoot Active raising money for Rainbows and Smiles, Salt40 and even did The Rhino Ride last year to help Rhino Conservation in Manyoni. Whether it's hiking, biking, walking, swimming, triathlons, or cycling the Amashova on an ice-cream bike, handcycle or tandem with one of his daughters, Gordon is ready for action (and could save you from a plane crash too - ask him about this!) As he focuses his efforts, combining his natural agility and sales talent, Gordon has founded Get Hands On Events - Events for Good. Get Hands On Events was launched as part of the 24-Hour Handcycle Relay Race. This race saw participants pedalling in 2019, raising money to support Ethembeni School in Cato Ridge. Through coordinating, implementing, and participating in this event, Gordon and the Get Hands On Events team raised more than R50 000 for the school. Moving ahead, Gordon planned to unlock new avenues of value generation for sponsors, charitable organisations, and community-focused initiatives. The plan for 2020 was to launch a series of significant, off-the-wall, yet deeply meaningful events that would have rolled out, to raise money for kids with cancer. As we all know, however, events and races were summarily cancelled or postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. 2020's schedule had included a series of events entitled "Run the Mall for Kids with Cancer" and several other races. Last year Gordon and a few friends who all turned 50 entered and completed the Mount-Aux-Sources Challenge and successfully finished. Please feel free to have a look at my socials. Instagram: @luckygordy_ 3598 followers Facebook: Gords Reid 2969 friends Twitter @luckygordy 9000 followers

Reason for taking challenge:

I'm passionate about raising funds through exercise and love this challenge. I have a large following who enjoy my exploits and belive I can raise this money and fulfill this challenge. I love mountains and find them spiritual. Montie was great and I'd like to challenge myself and make this one happen too.

Grace College: Faye Coverdale, Erin Coverdale, Jodi Moreno

Age: Faye: 42
Erin: 15
Jodi: 15

Hometown: Howick, KZN

Occupation: Faye: Head of Sport – Grace College
Erin: Grade 10 Learner
Jodi: Grade 10 Learner

About me:

Faye Coverdale:

I am a Howick girl, born and bred. Sport has always featured prominently in my life, and as the Head of Sports at Grace College, I now have the opportunity to shape future leaders through sport. I find a strong link between the outdoors and mental well-being and enjoy South Africa’s wide-open spaces.

Erin Coverdale:

I am a Grade 10 student at Grace College. My family are very adventurous and always keen to go camping or hiking in the mountains, so I have always been around adventure and the joys of being in the mountains. I am a strong Christian girl who loves spending time with the Lord, whether at youth, at church, or even in my room. I try my best to live out my daily life with the intention of telling others about Jesus. I am passionate about sharing my testimony and hope that it will encourage others to believe. Jesus has helped me through my many trials and tribulations and I thank him daily for shaping me into the person I am today. I love spending time with young kids and hope to one day become a teacher. I am passionate about my love for swimming and one-day hope to become part of the KZN team. I enjoy being on stage and have recently performed, as a main character, in the production of Footloose at Grace College. I try my best in all aspects of school and push myself to succeed.

Jodi Moreno:

I am a Grade 10 student at Grace College. My family loves to go hiking in the berg and we love our sports. I am a Christian and love spending time with the Lord. I love socializing and meeting new people. I try my best in everything I do and never give up. 

Sporting bio:

Faye Coverdale:

I have played South African Country Districts Hockey and enjoyed numerous competitive league games in KZN. I have run numerous half marathons, and completed 6 Midmar Miles. I've ridden the Cape Argus and AmaShova and have completed the Giant's Cup Trail.

Erin Coverdale:

I have completed the Giant's Cup trail and swam my first Midmar Mile this year.

Jodi Moreno:

I achieved the gold medal in KZN cross country. I played KZN tennis. I made uMgungundlovu hockey. I hold the record for the 1200m run in the under-12 age group. I was in 1st team soccer in Grade 7 Laddsworth.

Reason for taking challenge:

Faye Coverdale:

Married to a passionate conservationist, I can relate to the challenges facing biodiversity, and why the funds raised through the Rhino Peak Challenge are so important if we are to save South Africa’s rich Biodiversity.  

Erin Coverdale:

As a daughter to a passionate conservationist, I am acutely aware of the biodiversity crisis and the perilous situation that our vultures and rhinos are in. The funds raised through the Rhino Peak Challenge support conservation initiatives to save these threatened species. 

Jodi Moreno:

I love being outdoors in the Drakensberg and hiking through beautiful nature and experiencing the majestic cliffs above me. I enjoy drinking from the rivers and swimming in the chilly, natural pools. 

Graham Clare

Age: 49

Hometown: Westville

Occupation: Sales Consultant

About me:

I'm a family man, father of 3 beautiful children and married to my amazing wife for the past 12 years. I enjoy a large and varied friendship circle and keep my old friendships alive and well. We're a very adventurous family and like going away and exploring. We like a good day at the beach as much as we like a good stroll along a river.

Sporting bio:

I've taken part in many sporting activities but like cycling, swimming and running the most. I recently did my first Ironman 70.3 which was a bucket list challenge before I turned 50. I enjoy trail running, hiking as well as mountain biking too. Also take part in Dolphin mile swims.

Reason for taking challenge:

I love a good challenge and love the idea of summiting a peak knowing you accomplished it. We as a family love nature and the outdoors and want our children's children to see Rhino, Crane and Vultures in their natural habitat for years to come. Proud to be part of this challenge and put some focus on these beautiful animals. Thank you for the opportunity to take part!

Jeremy Borg

Age: 63

Hometown: Paarl

Occupation: Winemaker

About me:

Born in Joburg, blessed to grow up in Malawi and attend school in the bush in Zimbabwe. In 1994, after years of studying and working overseas, I accidently ended up in Botswana working in Chobe National Park. In November 1995 I married Emma under a huge camel thorn tree near Savuti’s famous pump pan, and on that day a pledge was made support conservation. We returned to SA to continue my wine career as commercial manager for Fairview. We began Painted Wolf in 2007 with the aim of making great wine whose sales would fund conservation. Since then, Painted Wolf wines has gone from strength to strength, making fantastic wine, and contributing almost R4 million to conservation. We work mostly with wild dogs, but also support the conservation of other species and several social upliftment projects, primarily as a sponsor of the Tour De Tuli, supporting the charity, Children in the Wilderness.

Sporting bio:

I am not much of a sportsman, rather a keen outdoors sports participant. I love hiking and long-distance cycle rides. I have done several rides of 1000kms plus and I have participated in 6 Tour de Tulis and a few other rides. I have run several half marathons and almost completed a 2 Oceans Ultra marathon a few years ago,after I ended up in the wrong starting box and just went for it.

Reason for taking challenge:

I like to find every opportunity to support conservation,  and it is especially compelling if you can have fun at the same time. We have been supporting the EWT for over 10 years and Tammy from the EWT knows I like a challenge. She asked me to participate again, which I jumped at! . This will be my second Rhino peak challenge. I plan to go up and down quicker!

Personal sponsor:

Painted Wolf Wines

Jock Green

Age: 49

Hometown: Hartbeespoort

Occupation: Fury/ Hatfield Motor Group Operations Executive

About me:

I'm 48 years old, born in Johannesburg, live at the bottom of the Magaliesburg mountains, have a beautiful little girl named Summer, am an Operations Executive for the Fury/ Hatfield Motor Group, absolutely love the outdoors and nature. My professional cycling career allowed me to travel the world and I have been fortunate enough to extend this to my running career. Hope to one day live in Cape Town for 8 months of the year and in Italy for the rest!

Sporting bio:

Professional cyclist that represented South African Road Cycling for 10 years. Represented SA National Team at World Championships, Commonwealth and All African Games. Two times SA National Road Champion. After my cycling career turned to trail running where I have represented SA at the World Championships. Winner of Ultra Trail Drakensburg and Karkloof 100 Milers and a few painful podium places at Ultra Trail Cape Town and SkyRun.

Reason for taking challenge:

When fellow RPC Ambassador Tammy Baker reached out to me through the Ford Wildlife Foundation, I simply couldn't say no! Have been following the event, that for some years now, loads of my friends and fellow runners have participated in and raised funds for this worthy cause and now I get a chance to experience and add to it - really looking forward to it.

Kierran Horn

Age: 35

Hometown: Durban

Occupation: Executive Assistant

About me:

Single father to a 10year old boy - Malakai Shipping industry Sports enthusiast

Sporting bio:

Fitness has been part of my life for 18months now. It's been a great journey!

Reason for taking challenge:

Company sponsored. I found out about the challenge through CSR discussions with WildACT. I've never hiked before and am looking forward to the RPC!

Maija de Rijk-Uys

Age: 43

Hometown: Cape Town

Occupation: Managing Director

About me:

A Chartered Accountant by profession – no one would know! Career spent in London, and in the emerging companies space, Maija serendipitously landed in her current role as Go2Africa CEO 7 years ago – one which she is very grateful for. Go2Africa supports various positive impact projects, including EWT, and hence Maija is taking part in this challenge. A mom, a wife, an avid traveller, a lover of Africa, reading and the occasional whiskey.

Sporting bio:

I love running and I love being outside in the beautiful natural surroundings that SA offers. Running + being outside +lots of nature = trail enthusiast. I am out whenever I can be in my backyard in Cape Town – right at the foot of Table Mountain which has 100s of trails to choose from. I am tackling this challenge as I would like to support the underlying cause, in particular the Endangered Wildlife Trust, which Go2Africa already supports. Running these majestic mountains for a purpose is putting two good things together!

Reason for taking challenge:

I am tackling this challenge as I would like to support the underlying cause, in particular the Endangered Wildlife Trust, which Go2Africa already supports. Running these majestic mountains for a purpose is putting two good things together!

Maritzburg College: Brandon de Lange, Lethokuhle Shangase, Riley Kleinhans

Age: Brandon: 27
Lethokuhle: 16
Riley: 18

Hometown: Brandon: Pietermaritzburg/Howick
Lethokuhle: Pietermaritzburg
Riley: Kokstad

Occupation: Brandon: Teacher/Coach
Lethokuhle: Scholar
Riley: Scholar

About me:

Brandon de Lange:

I am a PMB man born and bred and now live in Howick. I attended Maritzburg College and the local Varsity College. I have found my way into education, and I look forward to studying further in Psychology. I am an outdoors person with a fascination of the majestic mountains of our country and the wildlife that we have around us. I have always enjoyed keeping active and fit, and running has been a method for me to do that. Running has been a form of therapy for me as it creates a sense of confidence in my own ability to overcome challenges. I am intrigued by the link between running and psychology and how much they can influence one another. 

Lethokuhle Shangase:

I love running! Running has transformed my life. I started running as a way to stay fit and relieve stress but it then become more than that. I got a sense of purpose and found running as a way to challenge myself. Running has given me a sense of taking on challenges and also forming new friends in races or group runs. I look forward to continuing to explore the benefits of this life-touching sport.

Riley Kleinhans:

My name is Riley Wade Kleinhans, I was born in Pietermaritzburg and I live in Kokstad. I am a matric boarder at Maritzburg College. My hobbies are hiking, running, poetry and photography. I aspire to join the Royal Navy after school.

Sporting bio:

Brandon de Lange:

Running a 1:24:50 half-marathon in 2022. Running my first marathon in Cape Town in 2022. Placing 10th at the Scottburgh Half-marathon in 2023.

Lethokuhle Shangase:

Top 10 academic at school. Top 10 KZN XC runner at KZN CHAMPS. Setting a PR in a 10km race: I ran 39:30. Placing a podium position in the Midlands XC: I came third. Running a personal distance record: I ran 22.4km

Riley Kleinhans:

Completed The Pineapple Express race(30km) and was first in the age group.Completed Run of the rivers - 2-day race(48km overall) and was first in the age group. Completed Run the rivers lite.

Reason for taking challenge:

Brandon de Lange:

The Rhino Peak Challenge not only speaks to my love and enjoyment of running but also to the side of me that cherishes the outdoors and the stunning wildlife in South Africa. The Rhino Peak Challenge is no small task and will require some tough preparation, but I am excited for it and the journey to the event is going to be special. I think that the work to conserve and look after wildlife in South Africa (and the world) is so vital as it gives us a way back into the serenity and honesty of nature. 

Lethokuhle Shangase:

Passionate about animal conservation, I combine my love for running with advocacy for wildlife and habitats. As an avid runner, I take on challenges to raise awareness for endangered species, habitats, and conservation efforts. Using my abilities, I promote the message through running and word-of-mouth, helping the voiceless creatures and inspiring others to take action. With a commitment to making a positive impact on our planet's biodiversity, I strive to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves and contribute to a brighter future for wildlife and the natural world.

Riley Kleinhans:

Not just the fact that it is a running event,(which is how I found out about the fundraiser)it does help to spread awareness of our endangered species and to conserve them, which is ultimately the main goal.

Michaelhouse Boys School: Theo Apteker, Ben Cheales, Lieschen Harrison, Damian Watson, Lucien Baldry

Age: Theo:
Ben: 17
Lieschen: 41
Damian: 17
Lucien:

Hometown: Theo:
Ben: Grew up in Joburg, currently living in Nottingham Road
Lieschen: Balgowan, Natal Midlands
Damian: Kloof
Lucien:

Occupation: Theo: Student
Ben: Student
Lieschen: Teacher
Damian: Student
Lucien: Student

About me:

Theo Apteker:

Ben Cheales:

I was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and spent a lot of time doing watersports growing up. I found a passion for music at a young age, and continue to pursue that passion to this day. I am currently in grade 11 at Michaelhouse and have loved every second here. I moved to Nottingham Road, (KZN) last year, and has been a very interesting change, although It allows me to have a clearer headspace, and work constructively toward my Dreams in the music industry. 

Lieschen Harrison:

Grew up in Kimberley in the Northern Cape and for as long as I can remember I have loved the natural world and all living creatures. Big city life is attractive and glamorous with so much to see and do but the country and small-town living have always had my heart. I am very blessed to be living with my husband and two wonderful sons in the Natal Midlands. My passion for art, the history of the world and the people in it, creation, and all things beautiful have always held my heart. The world is so diverse and so jolly beautiful and colourful and we have been gifted this one life so get out there and see it!

Damian Watson: 

Lucien Baldry:

Sporting bio:

Theo Apteker:

Ben Cheales:

Sports have never really been a massive part of my life. I have always been told that there are two things a Cheales definitely can’t do. One of which, is balancing a balance sheet in accounting, and the other, is running. It is completely true that I have never been able to do accounting, but running is something that I have recently started to enjoy a lot. I enjoy going to the gym and playing water polo and other forms of cardio, but I can assure you that I will not be playing 1st team rugby anytime soon. This will be my first ‘real’ running race, and I am looking forward to it very much!

Lieschen Harrison:

I played a bit of tennis and hockey but nothing ever stuck so my sporting bio from my school days is very thin.  At varsity, I found a passion for archery and competed at the Provincial level for a couple of years. But it was after school that I started running and as one would say “the bug bit”. For many years the meditative rhythm of running on the road kept me going and more recently, trail has taken hold. What great places one can see when out on the trail!

Damian Watson:

My passion for running began in 2017 when I participated in my first KZN championship for the 100m. However, as the years went by that distance increased as I became more competitive in cross country and shorter distances such as the 1500m and 800m. Although I managed to partake in various provincial cross country and athletics competitions alike, in the future, I intend to run less competitively. Instead, I would like to run more for my own personal fitness and well-being as well as the benefit of others through charitable courses such as this one. In doing so, I hope that the Rhino Peak Challenge will be the first of many charity events I participate in.

Lucien Baldry:

Reason for taking challenge:

Theo Apteker:

Ben Cheales:

I was approached by Mrs. Harrison, asking me if I would be interested in taking up the challenge, and I immediately said yes! I am not 100% sure why she asked me, but I sure am up for the challenge.  I would like to try and raise as much money as possible for this very important cause and spread awareness around this issue.

Lieschen Harrison:

I think it is such a fantastic opportunity for people to come together and collectively show that they care. The beneficiaries of The Rhino Peak Challenge are the true heroes as they are the ones on the ground doing the hard work to conserve our beautiful wildlife and ecosystem. In helping them, we help preserve our beautiful land for our children and our children’s children.

Damian Watson:

I have decided to take part in this challenge because I thought it would be a good opportunity for me to start giving back to the immediate community in which I live. I also want to participate in further challenges in the future as a means to bring awareness to pressing issues and benefit various communities, so I hope that the Rhino Peak Challenge will serve as a springboard for my active participation in charitable events.

Lucien Baldry:

Neil Hiestermann

Age: 25

Hometown: Underberg

Occupation: Farmer

About me:

I am a former city-slicker who ditched the tar and buzz for the gravel and quiet. I am a keen outdoorsman and despite serious effort, snakes still manage to give me frights.

Sporting bio:

Throughout my school and university careers I partook in a number of team sports. It was not until recently that I discovered the freedom and fun of trail running - safe to say I am addicted.

Reason for taking challenge:

Keeping wild places wild is a truly noble pursuit. I wish to play a small role in helping those who actively protect wild places.

Nick Park-Ross

Age: 37

Hometown: Umdloti

Occupation: Medical Doctor

About me:

I'm husband to Natalie and father to Mackenzie and we live on the north coast of KZN. I work as a maritime occupational medicine doctor and have a practice called ShipMed, at Life Entabeni hospital. I enjoy the outdoors and try spend as much time as I can in the peace and quiet of nature.

Sporting bio:

I've grown up loving the outdoors and doing which ever sport comes along. Currently, I'm enjoying mountain biking and trail running.

Reason for taking challenge:

The opportunity to participate in the Rhino Peak Challenge (RPC) has been a dream come true for me. I've watched several of my friends take part over the years, but I didn't manage to prioritize the event in the past until this year when a past RPC ambassador threw the opportunity at me and, this time, I caught it with both hands. The event is a marriage of two of my passions - the indigenous wildlife of South Africa and the majesty of Ukhahlamba. It's a great priviledge to be able to raise funds to protect wildlife in South Africa. My wife and I have a beautiful young daughter and we want to be able to show her the beauty of South Africa's diverse and exquisite ecosystem when she is old enough. The thought of losing any species to poaching or climate change is heartbreaking and so we do our small bit to consume less and be conscious of what we do consume.

Personal sponsor:

ShipMed Inc.

NUD Girls: Kate & Linds

Age: Kate: 34
Linds: 36

Hometown: Underberg

Occupation: Admin

About me:

Two farm wives living in Underberg. We love trail running and live in the best place for it.

Sporting bio:

Linds is a Sani Stagger Trail 21km 2021 winner and UTD 32km 2022 she came in 2nd lady. Last year 2023 she was the 2nd lady in on the Sani Stagger 38km Trail. Kate has run the UTD, Sani Stagger Trail and UTCT she just enjoys running trail races and enjoying being in the mountains.

Reason for taking challenge:

Passion for trail running, wild life and conservation.

Phillip Swart

Age: 25

Hometown: Underberg

Occupation: Conservationist

About me:

I am a farm boy hailing from the Botswana border turned nature conservationist and now work as a Priority Species Monitor for Wilflide ACT in the Southern Drakensberg. Since I started working here, my desire to make a difference in the field of conservation has been realized in more ways than one! I never thought I would end up working with vultures, but I am so absolutely captivated by these species and I'd be very happy to work with them for many years to come.

Sporting bio:

Although I was not an athlete in school, I've always enjoyed long-distance running. My work involves doing lots of hiking in the Drakensberg mountains to monitor Bearded Vulture nests and check camera traps. Being active is important to me. It helps me with the physical and mental challenges that I may encounter daily.

Reason for taking challenge:

I had the opportunity last year to help out with managing the RPC event. It was such an amazing experience to see the passion of everyone involved, that I wanted to do my part this year to also help raise funds for Vulture and Rhino Conservation and be an ambassador for Wildlife ACT.

Sarah & Trevor Wilkinson

Age: Trevor: 62
Sarah: 30

Hometown: Johannesburg

Occupation: Trevor: Pro Sportsman
Sarah: Veterinarian

About me:

Trevor Wilkinson:

Born in Zimbabwe. Been living in SA since finishing school. I was born into a family of sports people, so sport has been a huge part of my life. At the age of 10 I found the sport of Squash, and fell in love with it. Having decided I want to play Squash on a Professional level, I spent a large part of my life traveling the world, and still do in a smaller way. Married, have 4 children, a boy and 3 girls, The bush, it's wildlife, has always been a love of mine. Over many years, I have had a passion yo give my time to endangered wildlife conservation, I do my little bit, to make a difference.

Sarah Wilkinson:

I worked as a wildlife vet for a period. Conservation is very close to my heart so I feel privileged to help in a small way.

Sporting bio:

Trevor Wilkinson:

3 Times World Masters Champion. 3 Times S. African National Champion. 2 Times Gold medal winner at World Masters Games. Played on PSA World Tour for 12 years. Won numerous tournaments including ; Scottish Open, Luxembourg Open, Zurich Open, Mauritius Open, Namibia Open, Zimbabwe Open, Botswana Open, Malawi Open...

Sarah Wilkinson:

Not very much, but I'm an avid runner.

Reason for taking challenge:

Trevor Wilkinson:

I have done the RPC a few times, and I feel it's a great way to give towards making a difference for our endangered wildlife. If the human race don't change their mindset towards areas like endangered wildlife and our planet, we are heading for a disaster. We want our magnificent wildlife to still be roaming free through the African bush and terrain in many generations to come. If I participate in events like the RPC, I can make a small positive impact.

Sarah Wilkinson:

To make a difference - big or small and enjoy my second RPC with my dad!

Steyn City College: AJ Rudman, Alyssa Schumacher, Emily Basel, Janelle Lombard, Randal Cunningham, Josslyn Potgieter

Age:

Hometown: Fourways, Johannesburg

Occupation: AJ: Deputy Head: Co-Curricular Activities
Alyssa: Grade 11 Student
Emily: Grade 11 Student
Janelle: Grade 11 Student
Randal: Grade 11 Student
Josslyn: Grade 11 Student

About me:

AJ Rudman:

Love my job and having the ability to work with the youth and help them to be amazing leaders for our world. 

Alyssa Schumacher:

I am a grade 11 student at Steyn City School. My family and I love going hiking and cycling. Sports and being active is an essential aspect of my life and not only does it keep me fit, it’s also a way to relieve stress. I love animals and nature and do anything I can to help others.

Emily Basel:

I am 16 years old in grade 11 who is a student at Steyn City School, who enjoys nature and being outdoors doing adventurous things. I enjoy spending time with friends and family. 

Janelle Lombard:

I am a hard-working Grade 11 student at Steyn City School in Johannesburg. Every year I try to complete a challenging activity. This year the Rhino Peak Challenge came my way!  What a privilege.  I have done a few interesting hikes:  from hiking up an active volcano on Reunion Island to hiking up beautiful mountain ranges in South Africa. When I set my mind on something I don’t stop until I reach my goal.   The Rhino Peak Challenge is the perfect goal for 2023. I love serving, if not in underprivileged areas, it is walking the streets of Johannesburg picking up litter - serving our earth.  

Randal Cunningham:

My name is Randal but most call me razz , I’ve always felt the need to produce and try do more for ourselves and our beautiful country and when I heard about this opportunity I couldn’t pass I had to take it because I love to lead and do my best in everything I do.

Josslyn Potgieter:

I am 17 years old and I am a grade 11 student at Steyn City School, I really enjoy being active and outdoors.

Sporting bio:

AJ Rudman:

Have a fascination with coaching. I have played many a sport but love being able to help others reach their potential.

Alyssa Schumacher:

I represented Eastern Gauteng Waterpolo at the Inter-provisional Tournament in 2022 and was in the first water polo team. I play U17A netball

Emily Basel:

I play cricket, hockey, and football. I also do cycling and running.

Janelle Lombard:

Water Polo - first team, vice-captain, half colours. Netball - first team, vice-captain, half colours, and made the Western Gauteng IPT team for 2021. Athletics team. Running weekly and completing multiple Park-Runs.

Randal Cunningham:

In my life time I have achieved amounts of amazing results in my sports ,from breaking records to setting records for my athletic ability in the track side of sports to making the u17  Lions team for rugby I am extremely passionate about sports and the rhino challenge is a perfect opportunity to take part and show my ability and talents

Josslyn Potgieter:

I have heavily involved in sports at Steyn City School. I play First Team netball, hockey, football and cricket. I try to run as much as I can during the week when I have free time to try and keep fit for all the sports I do. I love to go hiking in the Karoo and in Cape Town.

Reason for taking challenge:

AJ Rudman:

Ultimately it is about awareness, students need role models for us to change the world we need to roll up our sleeves and lead.

Alyssa Schumacher:

I love animals, being in nature and exercising and so it’s a beautiful combination. As members of society, we really need to do everything we possibly can to make a difference for future generations, and the rhino peak challenge is an amazing opportunity to do just that.

Emily Basel:

I love animals and nature and I want to help in any way I can. I love being outdoors and spending time in nature.

Janelle Lombard:

Raising funds while hiking in the beautiful Drakensberg is an amazing privilege and opportunity not many will ever have. When I heard about the Rhino Peak Challenge, I knew it was for me! I love hiking/trail running and most important of all I find joy in raising funds for a good cause. In this case, it is to preserve our magnificent wildlife in South Africa.  

Randal Cunningham:

My contribution to this challenge and fundraiser is the perfect opportunity to show what I am capable of and show what lengths I would go to help a cause in need. I’m extremely excited to take this challenge and I am looking forward to it.

Josslyn Potgieter:

I enjoy being involved in giving back to the community and helping people and animals. I will go above and beyond to help as much as I possibly can.

Suzie Swart

Age: 21

Hometown: Pretoria

Occupation: Student

About me:

I've lived in the city since I was a little girl but always tended to retreat to the outdoors. I grew up riding horses and running around the stable yard. My love for being active grew stronger and during school, I found myself more on the sportsfields than in the classroom. Currently, I am in my third year of studying education at the University of Pretoria. My two subject majors are English and Geography. These subjects have sparked my interest since I was a scholar and I am grateful to have the opportunity to pursue something that I enjoy so much. I have a passion for children and teaching. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, finding new coffee shops, and looking after my little garden. I also love meeting new people and hearing their stories. Nothing inspires me more than people chasing after their dreams.

Sporting bio:

As I mentioned, I spent many hours on the sports fields, specifically the athletics track. I competed in the 400m dash in school, representing my province numerous times at the South African National Championships. During the season of my life as a track athlete, I learned what it meant to be dedicated and work hard. Two years ago, I turned my interest to road and trail running. I have never looked back! The challenge of pushing your body and mind further than what you thought possible, is incredibly rewarding. The road and trail running community have been ever-supportive and encouraging. If I can be part of a community that is so life-giving and uplifting, then sign me up!

Reason for taking challenge:

As a geography enthusiast, I realise the importance of preserving our ecosystem's biodiversity and species. The rhinos, vultures, and cranes play a cardinal part in South African heritage and identity. I can't imagine what our country would look like without our wildlife. The idea of not running for myself, but for animals who are fighting for their existence, motivates me to make a small difference.

Personal sponsor:

Lightnet

Team Braai365: Russell Daymond & Conrad Kock

Age: Russell: 44
Conrad: 42

Hometown: Russell: Ballito
Conrad: Ballito

Occupation: Russell: Tech Lead, Integration, Corporate and Investment Banking, Standard Bank
Conrad: Managing Director

About me:

Russell: Beautiful Wife that is also doing the challenge and two awesome little girls. In 2006 I bought a few Agricultural farms in Dinokeng because there was a possibility that the Government was planning to invest in a Big Five Game Reserve close to OR Thambo Internal Airport for tourism purposes. We immediately removed all the fences on the properties, and this became part the first phase of the Dinokeng Big Five Game Reserve. We created the first of the roads across the properties. Over the following decade the full big five was introduced and we saw these farms transform from old cattle farms into what is now a fully functioning game reserve.

Conrad: Husband and dad of 2 kids, boy aged 11 and princess aged 13. Enjoy braaing, staying active and always have time for the beach with family and friends.

Sporting bio:

Russell: 2006 SA Wakeskate champion. I love water and also enjoy surfing, swimming, mountain biking, Enduro motor bikes, Running and the occasional triathlon.

Conrad: I love all sports but am active in running, dirt bikes, and tennis.

Reason for taking challenge:

Russell: I’m passionate about conservation and this is another way I’d like to give back.

Conrad: Doing something lekker with great people for a great cause! It’s lekker to be lekker!!

Team EWT: Tammy Baker & Cobus Theron

Age: Tammy: 39
Cobus: 47

Hometown: Tammy: Pretoria
Cobus: Klein Karoo

Occupation: Tammy: EWT Business Development Officer
Cobus: EWT Conservation Manager

About me:

Tammy: I grew up in Pretoria and come from a family that loves Africa and loves to travel. I am lucky enough to work as a fundraiser for The EWT, one of SA’s most respected conservation NGO’s that is celebrating 50 years of conservation impact this year! I love being outdoors and enjoy running to stay healthy. I have a beautiful nine-year-old boy and I hope to instill my sense of hope and appreciation for our beautiful country in him.

Cobus: I am a conservationist. I love working for the EWT where I have served in several positions across a number of different biomes. I live in the Karoo, in the Western Cape. I have a passion for mountains, and I am privileged to wake up every morning surrounded by them. This year I will be running my fourth Rhino Peak Challenge. I cant wait to be back in the Berg!

Sporting bio:

Tammy: Rhino Peak Challenge 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and a few half-marathons

Reason for taking challenge:

Tammy: RPC is a life-changing experience. The breath-taking mountain, the feeling of camaraderie, and the sense of achievement all make this a very special fundraising event.

Cobus: For the love of the mountains and to contribute to conservation efforts.

Team Quorum: Hazel & Rowan

Age: Hazel: 38
Rowan: 41

Hometown: Hazel: Ballito
Rowan: Pretoria

Occupation: Rowan: Managing Director for Quorum Property Group
Hazel: Residential Portfolio Manager for Quorum Property Group

About me:

Rowan & Hazel: We have been friends for 15 years and enjoy pushing ourselves in all aspects of life.

Motto: Always ask “why”!!!

Sporting bio:

Rowan: GlenCairne & OxPecker Trail Runs

Hazel: 2008 SA Wakeskate Champ. Comrades Marathon 2023 in 9hours 36mins.

Reason for taking challenge:

Why not?

The Salty Crax: Narina Sherwood & Sharee De Jongh

Age: Narina: 30
Sharee: 30

Hometown: Pretoria (we dream of living at the beach)

Occupation: Narina: Marketing Manager

About me:

Two Pretoria girls who love the bush, wine, and trail-running! We ran our first half marathon together in 2015 (Knysna Marathon) and have been running buddies ever since. We are passionate about our local landscapes and nature and are proud to do our piece for conservation in any way we can.

Sporting bio:

A few half marathons...2023 trails include UTD 32km (Narina), MACMAC 25km and Kruger 2 Canyon. 

Reason for taking challenge:

We are so blessed to call such a diverse country home - it is so rich in natural beauty, from landscapes to fauna and flora and of course wildlife. We love a good challenge, and what better way than to do something positive for a great cause while being in remote, wild South African mountains!

Personal sponsor:

ShipTalk

Treverton College: Travers Pellew, Kai Broom & Jarred van Alphen

Age: Travers: 29
Kai: 18
Jarred: 18

Hometown: Travers: Mooi River
Kai: Mooi River
Jarred: Johannesburg

Occupation: Travers: High School Educator and Head of Sport at Treverton College
Kai: Student
Jarred: Student

About me:

Travers Pellew:

I enjoy running, cycling, hiking and any other adventure activity. I love being out in nature and enjoying the diverse landscape that our country has to offer. Sunrise trail runs, that sip of coffee in the morning, and the sun dipping over a mountain at the end of the day are some of the finer things that I enjoy. I am passionate about educating students to embrace their uniqueness and individuality, as we each have our own strengths to enrich those that cross our paths.

Kai Broom:

I am the Headboy at Treverton College and I have been at the school for 9 years. The school has made me passionate about the outdoors and as a result I have been on countless hikes, rivertrips and adventures. I am a Christian and I live out every day trying to strengthen my relationship with the Lord, He has gotten me through many good and bad, tough and easy situations and I have Him to thank for the person I have become. I love sport and am involved with most at my school, I have come to love trail running and pushing myself to my limit.

Jarred van Alphen:

I have a keen eye for adventure and love a good challenge. I appreciate good experiences and love meeting new people.I enjoy the finer details in life and love to get back to my roots sometimes. I’m a hard worker and enjoy working hard, however I do like to have a good time and balance my life out. I would like to become a yacht Captain when I’m older and would like to start opening up some side hustles when I leave school. I have a sister her name is Amber and she is currently studying at Stellenbosch. My father Christopher is a geologist and my mother Tracey is a Sap Consultant. I have always enjoyed the saying, you have one life to live it.

Sporting bio:

Travers Pellew:

Representing South Africa in my age group at two Duathlon World Champs. Placing 2nd in the u23 category at Xterra (off-road triathlon) South African Champs at Xterra Grabouw. Top 5 finishes at 4 Peaks Mountain Challenge, Giants Cup Trail Run, Run The Berg Trail Run and multiple other popular trail races in South Africa. Twice 1st place at The Heaven and Hell Mountain Run. Completing the Rhino Peak Challenge in 2022. Many other memorable races and experiences.

Kai Broom:

1. Honours for trail running 2. Provicial level hockey since grade 6 3. Completed the drakensberg grand traverse in 9 days and the northern berg traverse 100km run in 24 hours. 4. I am captain of 4 sporting teams (1st hockey, 1st cricket, cross country and athletics) and I am the sports house captain. 5. I am one of the top runners in the province

Jarred van Alphen:

Drakensberg Grand Traverse Drakensberg Mini Traverse Hike Drakensberg Mini Traverse Fast Pack/ Run 120 km and 60 km Adventure Race

Reason for taking challenge:

Travers Pellew:

I am passionate about the Drakensberg and the diversity that it offers us as South Africans. This challenge embraces the beauty on our doorstep and showcases the majestic Drakensberg as well as the diverse animal and plant life that it offers. This challenge allows us to do our part in fundraising and preserving this special place so that in years to come others can enjoy the Drakensberg and its beauty. In addition, I am always keen for an epic challenge!

Kai Broom:

I have come to love the Berg through the various adventures it has given me. I have an overwhelming sense of peace and awe every time I look over the mountains. I would like to play my part and give back to the mountains because of what they have given me. My most physical challenges have been in the Berg and I enjoy pusing myself to the limits and so if I can do that and make a difference at the same time it would be amazing.

Jarred van Alphen:

I did it last year and absolutely love the whole experience, from raising the funds to running up and down the peak. It was a great experience, however, the biggest thing that attracts me to get involved in the challenge is conservation for the future.