For the first time ever, Botswana will join the globally celebrated Wings for Life World Run, taking place in Gaborone. This event marks a significant expansion of the event across Southern Africa, and local participants now have a chance to contribute to a global cause and help break a world record — all by running for those who can’t.
With just a few more registrations needed to surpass the current record of 265,818 participants, every entry counts toward making history. Even more inspiring, 100% of all entry fees and donations go directly to spinal cord research. Botswanans now have the opportunity to be part of this momentous world run by registering to run from wherever they may be located.
What makes the run special?
Unlike traditional races, the Wings for Life World Run has no fixed finish line. Instead, participants of all fitness levels are pursued by the event’s signature “Catcher Car” — a moving finish line that makes the race inclusive, fun, and completely unique. Whether you run, walk or roll, the goal is simply to stay ahead of the car for as long as you can.
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Join global supporters such as Jürgen Klopp, Eileen Gu, Primož Roglič, and a host of other sporting legends as they take part in this one-of-a-kind event.
Now, Botswana joins the list of over 400 locations worldwide taking part in this massive show of solidarity, with already over 400 registered participants.
Why it matters
To date, over 1.55 million people from 195 nationalities have run in the Wings for Life World Run, collectively raising €51.93 million (approx. BWP 801 million). These funds have gone directly to 213 spinal cord research projects, including clinical trials where participants have regained use of their hands and even taken steps again after paralysis.
Just last year, the run’s 265,818 participants collectively covered 2,036,495 km and raised €8.1 million (approx. BWP 124.9 million) for spinal cord research. These efforts are helping individuals like Michel Roccati, who, after a life-altering accident, regained the ability to walk through a trial funded by the run.
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“To stand up and walk again means liberty – independence in daily life,” Roccati shared. “The Wings for Life World Run gives hope, and it’s fun to participate in.”
Says passionate local ambassador for Wings for Life (SA): and motorcycle accident survivor, Sandile Mkhize: “Every stride I take in the Wings for Life World Run is not just for me, but for every life waiting to move freely again. As a South African – and proudly African, I run with hope, purpose, and the unshakable belief that together, we can cross the finish line for those who can’t.”
Be part of the movement
With Flagship Runs in cities like Munich, Vienna and Ljubljana filling up quickly, Botswana offers a unique opportunity to be part of a world record-setting movement from Southern Africa. Runners in Gaborone will be joining others from Tokyo, Sydney, London, Dubai, Cape Town and beyond, all taking off simultaneously around the world.
Whether you run solo or with friends using the Wings for Life World Run App or gather at the Township Rollers FC venue for the official event, you’ll be running for something bigger than yourself.
How to register
There’s still time to sign up and be part of this global moment. The Wings for Life World Run starts at 11:00am UTC (1PM Botswana Time) on Sunday, 4 May 2025, with registration open until one hour before the race begins.
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Cece Smith 