Polly's running a half marathon?! in Kenya!?

On the 25 June 2022, I will be attempting to run half of the Lewa Safaricom Marathon in aid of Tusk.  For over 30 years, Tusk has helped pioneer a range of successful conservation initiatives across more than 20 African countries, safeguarding millions of hectares of ecosystems, empowering local communities and increasing protection for some of the continent's most treasured threatened species. Supporting the recovery of Kenya’s black rhino population from the brink of extinction, protecting the world’s critically endangered Grevy’s zebra, and providing healthcare, water and improved infrastructure for communities, to funding Lewa education programmes, the funds this marathon raises are invaluable to thousands across the country.

However, these projects now face perhaps their greatest challenge to date – mounting a recovery plan in the face of social and economic crises. The Covid-19 pandemic’s harsh legacy will continue for many years to come. Both the 2020 and 2021 races were cancelled in Kenya – leaving communities even more vulnerable than before.

If you've known me for longer than a couple weeks, you will know I am not a runner. On top of that, running a half-marathon on an African wildlife conservancy presents some unique challenges. Each year, participants share the reserve with several large African predators including lion, leopard, hyena and wild dog. I will be dealing with 5000ft elevation, 30 degree heat and rolling hills. I, alongside everyone else, have questioned why I didn't just sign up to the Hackney Half instead...

Your donation will help Tusk to continue to fund progressive conservation initiatives across Africa and make sure that my inevitable injury is not in vain. Please give generously!