A CHRISTCHURCH man dubbed ‘rhino boy’ is taking on a massive ultra-marathon in Kenya.
Chris Green, an avid runner and strong campaigner for Save the Rhino, a charity that is dedicated to the protection of rhinos.
Now, he is lacing up his walking shoes for a 230km ultra-marathon.
He is taking on the challenge to raise awareness for Kenya’s wildlife rangers.
All proceeds from the race directly support rhino conservation and the incredible work of Africa's wildlife rangers, paying for life insurance, training equipment, clothing and accommodation.
A spokesperson for Save the Rhino said: “Chris is a fundraiser and all-around remarkable individual.
"Over the past 15 years, Chris has run more than 100 marathons dressed in a 12kg rhino costume to raise awareness and funds for Save the Rhino International, an organisation dedicated to the conservation of the five rhino species.
"Now, Chris is preparing to tackle his most challenging feat yet: Beyond the Ultimate’s For Rangers Ultra, a 230km multi-stage ultramarathon through the stunning landscapes of five Kenyan wildlife conservancies.
"This will be Chris's first time participating in a race of this magnitude, and true to form, he’ll be doing it wearing his iconic rhino costume.
“Just days before the race, Chris went to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, where he saw the very rhinos he has been fighting to protect and met with rangers.
“It was a poignant reminder of the importance of the cause and Chris’ efforts over the years. He even donned the rhino suit to join the ranger unit for their morning run.
“The For Rangers Ultra is not just any race. It is a gruelling endurance event that takes participants through some of Africa’s most rugged and beautiful terrain, all in support of the brave wildlife rangers who risk their lives daily to protect endangered species including rhinos.
“Chris’s commitment to running in the costume underlines his dedication to the cause and his deep respect for the rangers' vital work.”
“We encourage everyone to follow the journey and donate to this vital cause.”
Chris has raised over £25,000 for Save the Rhino through running challenges across the globe.
Chris will begin the ultramarathon from Lewa, Borana, Ol Pejeta, Lolldaiga Hills, Ol Jogi Conservancies, Kenya from September 2 – 6.
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