Story
On September 14-18 2022, Jeffrey DeLorey and Keith Montgomery will be taking part in one of the worlds toughest self supported ultramarathons in Kenya, Africa-- the For Rangers Ultra. This non profit grueling endurance event is centered around raising funds for the welfare of wildlife Rangers who risk their lives every day protecting Africa's most endangered species. Poaching activities have reached catastrophic levels and those on the ground as front line defenders of Rhino, Elephant etc.... need financial assistance to combat the war on poaching. Donated funds go directly to specialized training and equipment required for Rangers to be prepared for the harrowing task. Additionally, funds are allocated for services and survivor benefits for Rangers killed in the line of duty. We're asking for your donation to help fund the only protective shield preserving Africa's majestic creatures for today and the future.
The For Rangers Ultra consists of roughly 100 participates from nations around the globe who will run 230 kilometers (142 mi) across five wildlife conservancies. Lewa, Borana, Lolldaiga, Ol Jogi and Ol Pejeta. These places are at the forefront of the fight against illegal poaching and possess some of the most beautiful wildlife and grasslands in all of Africa.
For our own protection, ultra runners will be in the company of armed rangers at frequent intervals. The Rangers will assist providing fresh water and setting up temporary overnight camp in the conservancies. Participants will get to know these hardened warriors protecting the lands as they interact during and after each stage. Camp will be under star filled skies and the sounds of lion and other nocturnal creatures will fill the overnight air as they roam.
Each runner will carry all that is needed to survive for the entire race. 5 days worth of food, medical and sleeping kit. Packs will weigh in the 20-25lb range. Daytime temperature can reach the 90's and overnight lows down to freezing. The task will challenge the fittest of athletes but at the end of the day our endurance pursuit is in the name of raising awareness and most importantly, real dollars to help protect some of our planets most special creatures. No donation amount is too small. The Rangers so deeply appreciate your needed support.
If you'd like to get a better understanding the cause and journey Keith and I (Barbara in 2023) will be embarking upon please check out the following short documentary:
Lastly, if you'd like to follow our journey I'll be posting links in the update section below as the race approaches. We'll be running with satellite GPS trackers allowing for live tracking. The race director will post daily stage recaps and photos. Again, I'll update this page with how to access tracking and race updates from the director soon.
Thanks for your support!
Jeffrey DeLorey | Keith Montgomery | Barbara Jones (2023 race)