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100km race in 25 hours for Tswale the elephant

With just five days left until the big day, Sonell says she is ready to tackle the race at Kingdom Trails on February 24.

Sonell Joubert will tackle a 100km mountain terrain race at Kingdom Trails, KwaMhlanga, on February 24. The distance must be completed in 25 hours.

According to her, the race will raise funds for an elephant’s rehabilitation and safety programme.

Tswale is an elephant that interacts with humans at the Lowhills farm and has a favourite dam that was, unfortunately, destroyed in the floods in Nkomazi last year.

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Sonell Joubert and Tswale the elephant.> Photo: Sonell Joubert

“Tswale and I took a liking in each other the very first time we met while he was still at KwaMadwala years ago. He’s great with the people and I enjoy him so much. While we are able to take care of him very well at the farm. His favourite dam broke during the floods last year and I am a ‘mother’ who is willing to do anything to ensure that he is happy. This specific dam was big enough for him to swim and even submerge, and it was such a pleasure to see him so happy,” said Joubert.

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Her love of fitness has played a huge role in encouraging her to take part to raise funds for Tswale.

“While we do have the budget for Tswale’s basic needs, fixing the dam would have been an add-on. Hence, I have decided to do what I love in order to inspire people into fitness and ask for donations. I would really appreciate any kind of support, even if it’s just messages of encouragement, cheering at the trail run or anything at all. Doing 100km in such an environment might seem ambitious even for a fitness bunny like me, so any kind of support would really go a long way.”

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