The Rhino Peak Challenge in the southern Drakensberg was completed by 44 determined individuals who united in a gruelling summit to raise funds for endangered species conservation on September 17.

The challenge is a 21km hike/run with a vertical climb of over 1 300m – with funds raised for rhinos, vultures and cranes.

Each runner was tasked with raising funds and this year’s Challenge raised a record-breaking more than R1.3 million (€73 300).

The majority of the money raised will be distributed to environmental NGOs, the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) and Wildlife ACT, and 10% goes to provincial conservation authority, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. Funding will also be directed towards the dehorning of Black and White rhino populations in protected areas.

The Rhino Peak Ambassador who brought in the most funds was Wildlife ACT supporter, Patrick Rüegg, who raised over R230 000 (€12 970).