Turning 50 and Celebrating with a Challenge
To celebrate turning 50, I’m taking on the Lewa Marathon in Kenya — running through breathtaking wildlife conservancies, pushing my limits, and embracing a once in a lifetime challenge that marks this new decade with purpose and courage.
Melisa Johnson
My story
On 27th June 2026, I’ll be taking on the Lewa Safari Marathon in Kenya.
The biggest challenge I’ve ever attempted — to celebrate turning 50 in a way that feels bold, meaningful, and connected to a cause I believe in. This race isn’t just about endurance; it’s about supporting conservation across Africa.
I’m running to raise vital funds for Tusk, an organization making an extraordinary impact across the continent.
Taking on this marathon at 50 feels like the perfect way to mark a milestone — by pushing myself further than ever before while contributing to something far bigger than me. Every mile will support the people and projects working tirelessly to protect Africa’s wildlife and landscapes.
You can learn more at www.lewasafarimarathon.com.
Activity Totals
236.38 km covered
Morning Run via Strava
Apr 2, 2026, 10:02:53 AMMorning Run via Strava
Apr 1, 2026, 10:19:19 AMMorning Run via Strava
Mar 31, 2026, 10:12:30 AMMorning Run via Strava
Mar 29, 2026, 11:06:22 AMMorning Run via Strava
Mar 25, 2026, 8:56:33 AMMorning Run via Strava
Mar 24, 2026, 10:15:59 AMAfternoon Run via Strava
Mar 23, 2026, 7:23:23 PMMorning Run via Strava
Mar 22, 2026, 11:55:49 AMMorning Run via Strava
Mar 20, 2026, 10:16:10 AMMorning Run via Strava
Mar 19, 2026, 10:42:00 AMMorning Run via Strava
Mar 19, 2026, 10:08:48 AMMorning Run via Strava
Mar 16, 2026, 10:43:03 AMMorning Run via Strava
Mar 14, 2026, 9:28:55 AMThank everyone
Mar 13, 2026, 11:24:12 PMTurning 50 felt wonderfully low‑key this year, but the real celebration comes on Saturday with an 18‑mile challenge. I want to thank everyone who generously donated to the Tusk Foundation for my birthday. Your support means the world and gives this challenge even more purpose.