Wilderness Safaris’ Tracy Bamber runs for charity

Wilderness Safaris’ marketing services manager Tracy Bamber has for the past seven years raised around R650 000 for Children in the Wilderness and the Wilderness Wildlife Trust. By running marathons and ultra-marathons such as the Two Oceans and Comrades, Bamber seeks sponsorship and all proceeds go to these two projects. So far in 2012 she has managed to raise over R70 000, for what will be her sixth Comrades 89km ultra-marathon.

“I am committed and dedicated to training for these big races not only for my own personal goals but to be able to help communities and conservation in Africa, and those a lot less fortunate than I am,” says Bamber. “If I can raise money for these great causes through something that I enjoy and put smiles on other people’s faces, then my goals have been reached.”

Bamber started running for fundraising purposes in mid-2005 as a result of a bet with a colleague who dared her to finish the Two Oceans Marathon in April 2006. If successful she would ‘win’ R20 000 for the Children in the Wilderness programme (CITW). This was the start of a number of successfully completed ultra-marathons.

The Comrades Marathon is one of the world’s greatest ultra-marathons and consists of an 89km test of endurance. Bamber completed the event in 2007. She was delighted to meet nine times Comrades winner Bruce Fordyce, who will be running his 30^th Comrades this year. In celebration of this milestone he has dedicated his run to two causes close to his heart, one being the Sports Trust and the other Children in the Wilderness, thanks to his chance meeting with Bamber.

“My running has made a big difference to my life and importantly, thanks to the help of my friends, sponsors and colleagues, has enabled me to make a difference in other peoples’ lives as well,” concludes Bamber.