South Coast runner, six-time Comrades Marathon finisher and popular Beaver Creek parkrun organiser, Simphiwe Mngwengwe (33), completed a 150km charity run for nature from Amanzimtoti to Port Edward recently.

This was Simphiwe’s biggest challenge as he ran day and night and against strong winds, which made certain sections difficult. His run was to highlight the need to protect South Africa’s coastline, marine life and natural ecosystems.

Simphiwe, who lives in Thongasi near Port Edward, started his run from Amanzimtoti after a send-off from the parkrun team.

“The support of local businesses, colleagues, community members, parkrun friends and the amazing support team kept me going. Every message, donation, cheer, and act of kindness made the distance feel easier. What amazed me most was how well my body responded. From the beginning until the finish, my legs kept going, and I experienced no cramps at all. Considering that I was running 150km, that was something I was grateful for,” said Simphiwe.

He added that it was his first fundraising event, and it became much bigger than he had imagined. “The Run for Nature was not simply about completing 150km; it was about using my passion for running to create awareness, raise support for nature conservation and bring people together around a meaningful cause. I am grateful to everyone who donated, supported, shared the campaign, assisted along the route or encouraged me. Every contribution played a part in getting me to the finish line,” he said.

R22 900 has been raised via a BackaBuddy fundraising campaign, Run for Nature Charity Run.

Now, Simphiwe’s focus shifts to the Comrades Marathon 2027.

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