Jog with rhinos on the African savannah！ Kenya’s marathon lets animals have the right of way first

▲ One of the toughest marathons in the world, the “Kenya Safaricom Marathon,” involves jogging with wild animals on the savannah. (Photo／Aardvark Safaris／Safaricom Marathon)

Reported by Lin Yuling／Comprehensive report

Marathons aren’t just physical activities—they’re also a test of the spirit. In the Republic of Kenya in East Africa, there’s a race billed as the wildest ever: the “Safaricom Marathon” (Safaricom Marathon),where participants must run through a wildlife reserve, jogging with animals on the African plains, where over 100 rhinos, elephants, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and others live.Although armed guards patrol the route for protection, there’s still a risk of animal attacks！

▲ It’s not just about running for your own life—it’s also for the animals！ (Photo／Aardvark Safaris／Safaricom Marathon)

The “Safaricom Marathon” is considered one of the toughest marathons in history. Since its inception in 2000, the 17th edition will be held on June 25, 2016. Participants aren’t just running for their own safety—they’re also “running for the animals,” as the funds raised support conservation efforts in Kenya.

This wild and challenging marathon will traverse the fully open Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, home to over 100 rhinos, elephants, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and more. Contestants must run alongside the resident animals on the savannah,although armed guards and helicopters patrol the area to protect runners, there’s still a risk of attacks by wildlife.

▲ Although armed guards and helicopters patrol the area to protect runners, there’s still a risk of attacks by wildlife. (Photo／Aardvark Safaris／Safaricom Marathon)

One section of the course, at an average altitude of 5,500 feet (1.7 kilometers), requires runners to complete two laps of 21 kilometers each. Therefore, this marathon is not only a test of physical and mental endurance but also demands vigilance around animals and awareness of heatstroke risks. However, runners are mostly well-prepared, with participation expected from over 40 countries and thousands of athletes.

▲ Dubbed “the wildest marathon,” this race involves running alongside local resident animals. (Photo／Aardvark Safaris／Safaricom Marathon)

＊Safaricom Marathon：Safaricom Marathon