Ryan Johns

Rise Against Hunger

Personal Message:

Last year, my journey to South Africa for the legendary Comrades Marathon—an iconic 56-mile ultra-marathon, the oldest and largest of its kind—was unforgettable. The race itself was an extraordinary physical challenge, but what truly left a mark on me was the spirit of the South African people. South Africans are among the warmest, most resilient people I’ve ever met, facing immense socioeconomic challenges with a strength and positivity that’s nothing short of inspiring. Before heading to Durban for the race, I spent time in Johannesburg, where I witnessed firsthand the daily struggles of low-income communities. In neighborhoods hit hardest by poverty, children and adults alike were doing their best to find moments of joy, but the reality surrounding them was difficult. Along the race route, I was confronted by the depth of these challenges; as we passed by, kids and adults held out their hands—not for high fives, but in the hope we could share some of our food or water. These moments of connection highlighted the stark contrast in living conditions, as so many families here fight daily to meet basic needs like food and clean water—resources we often take for granted. This experience deeply affected me, and it’s why I chose to run this historic ultra-marathon in support of Rise Against Hunger, a global nonprofit dedicated to ending hunger. In South Africa, Rise Against Hunger works to provide nourishing meals and other essential resources to communities in need, supporting both immediate hunger relief and long-term solutions for sustainable food security. By running these 56 miles in under 12 hours, I aim to raise funds to support this crucial work, giving back to a country that moved me profoundly and honoring the spirit of the people who inspired me. I’ll take on the hard part—the training, the miles, the endurance. The easy part is donating. Together, we can help make a difference in the lives of those who continue to fight every day to overcome the odds and live with hope and dignity