KOUGA – The 2026 Rhino Night Relay has raised R30,195 for the Kouga Rhino Sanctuary, marking the biggest year yet for the annual rhino conservation fundraiser.

The event, held at the Algoa Kart and Motorcycle Club in Gqeberha on 5 September, attracted 81 entries across the Calf, Amateur and Night Relay categories.

Nine years of rhino conservation

Founded in 2018 by Gwen and Timothy Young, the non-profit event was created out of a passion for rhino conservation and enduro riding.

Over the years, the event has brought together off-road motorcycle riders, volunteers, sponsors and supporters, with funds raised through rider entries, raffles and donations going towards rhino conservation organisations.

According to Gwen, the 2026 event not only surpassed the 2025 fundraiser but also became the biggest Rhino Night Relay since it started nine years ago.

“2026, you absolutely blew us away,” said Gwen.

“We are incredibly proud to announce that the 2026 Rhino Night Relay raised R30,195 for Kouga Rhino Sanctuary.”

Funds support rhino organisations

The event has supported several rhino conservation organisations since its inception, including Saving The Survivors, Kragga Kamma Game Park, The Rhino Orphanage, The Chipembere Rhino Foundation, Care For Wild Rhino Sanctuary and The Rhino Revolution.

In 2025, the event donated more than R29,350 to The Rhino Revolution, following a donation of R26,050 in 2024.

Sponsors help drive fundraiser

Gwen said the 2026 event was supported by 71 sponsors, with The Turbo Shop serving as the title sponsor.

She thanked the sponsors for their contributions, which included money, prizes, products, services, equipment and time.

“To every single one of our 71 sponsors, whether you donated money, prizes, products, services, equipment, time, or simply said, ‘How can we help?’ thank you,” said Gwen.

“This event would simply not be possible without you.”

Gwen also thanked the event team, volunteers, marshals, photographers, lap scorers, MC and other helpers who assisted with setting up, running and packing up the event.

Riders of all ages take part

The event catered for riders of different ages and experience levels, with the Calf category for younger riders, the Amateur category during the day and the Night Relay for teams riding after dark.

Gwen also thanked all 81 entrants for taking part.

“To our riders, from our little Calf riders to our Amateur riders and every Night Relay team who lined up in the dark, thank you for showing up, getting on your bikes and supporting something so much bigger than all of us,” said Gwen.

From humble beginnings to record year

The Rhino Night Relay began in 2018, when approximately 80 riders participated despite freezing temperatures and heavy rain.

The inaugural event raised just over R10,000 for Saving The Survivors.

Since then, the event has continued to raise funds for different rhino conservation organisations, with donations increasing as more riders, sponsors and supporters joined the cause.

Gwen said reaching the ninth year of the event with continued support was something she and Timothy would not take for granted.

“To be standing here nine years strong, surrounded by people who continue to show up for us, for this event and, most importantly, for our rhinos, is something we will never, ever take for granted,” said Gwen.

“Nine years down, our biggest and best one yet. Until next time, because knowing us, there’s always a next time.”

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