19 September 2023

Go wild with the first-ever obstacle challenge fundraiser on the KZN Mid-South Coast!

Submitted by: Agnes Matladi
Go wild with the first-ever obstacle challenge fundraiser on the KZN Mid-South Coast!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to compete in the KZN South Coast’s first 5km WILDRUN – a fun yet challenging obstacle course race - which is taking off from Crocworld Conservation Centre in Scottburgh on Saturday, 30 September from 8am to 11am. The run, which is hosted by WILDED, Crocworld Conservation Centre, and Cold Iron Crossfit Gym, is a fun and challenging obstacle course – with a kid-friendly option available. 

“This is going to be a great day out for the entire family and we’ve put together a really fantastic course with obstacles which participants can attempt, or can pass by if they think it will be too challenging,” explained Matt Machell-Cox of WILDED. “The route will be short, but really fun, passing in and around the stunning Crocworld grounds with obstacles for everyone from beginners to the ultimate wild athletes – all while raising funds for good causes.”

Dean Marais, who is a renowned athlete and the technical consultant designing and implementing the obstacles, commented: “This is a fun, scenic run through the magical Crocworld! The natural beauty makes this the perfect spot for our uniquely croc-related obstacles for the whole family.”

The 5km course will include 10 major obstacles as well as many minor obstacles along the way, alongside a child-friendly 2km course. Competitors can look forward to climbing over walls, carrying logs, balance beam river crossing – and even dodging crocodiles! Each obstacle will have a chicken loop challenge for those who choose not to complete the obstacle.

The course starts at the entrance of Crocworld where the resident Fish Eagle Sekhuru will welcome participants with his easily recognisable cry. Racers then descend into the valley for a challenging loop before heading back up the hill to the finish line. Participants are warned that they can expect to get somewhat wet as there are certain water-based obstacles – although no swimming is necessary!

WILDED Adventures is partnering with Cold Iron Crossfit Gym for the WILDRUN with all race proceeds going towards expanding the WILDED Education Hub, as well as rebuilding Cold Iron’s gym which was destroyed by recent bad weather. Funds will also be used to build bigger, better, and even more exciting obstacles for the next race – planned for Saturday, 23 December.

Danielle Webstock, Physical Trainer at Cold Iron Crossfit based at Scottburgh Country Club, said: “Cold Iron Crossfit is so excited to partner with The WILDRUN. We believe in #fitterbetterstronger and a fun run with cool obstacles is not only right up there with what we do, it's also an awesome way to get the whole family involved. We face challenges every day, and the best way to overcome them is to be prepared. So, prepare yourself for the greatest challenge to hit the South Coast! We are looking forward to it.”

Crocworld Conservation Centre Manager, James Wittstock, said they were delighted to be chosen as the venue for this exciting challenge: “We have partnered with WILDED on several great events and programmes because the work they do in wildlife conservation, particularly among the youth, is so worthwhile. We encourage everyone to come out for the WILDRUN which is going to be a great challenge, and to take some time to check out the incredible wildlife at Crocworld after the event!”

The cost is R50 per person, free for children under 5. This price gives racers and teams access to the course anytime between 8am and 11am, which they can complete as many times as they like. All entrants will get a 50% discount on entrance to Crocworld Conservation Centre if they want to visit after the race. There will be a market on the day selling food, drinks and other great items.

Participants can sign up for the challenge on the day. Follow Crocworld Conservation Centre, WildED or Cold Iron Crossfit on social media for updates. To book a Market Stall, contact Wanita on 072 4124216.

WILDRUN obstacle challenge details

Venue: Crocworld Conservation Centre, Scottburgh
Date: Saturday, 30 September
Times: 8am to 11am
Cost: R50 per person, free for children under 5