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In this episode, we’re joined by Marissa Groenewald, better known as The Rope Runner—an unstoppable force blending endurance sport with powerful advocacy.

Marissa recently made history by becoming the first person to complete a marathon while skipping, and she didn’t stop there. She’s already conquered the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon (56km)—also on a skipping rope—and is now preparing for her biggest challenge yet: the legendary Comrades Marathon (89km).

Her mission? To raise R500,000 for Love Justice International, an organization that fights human trafficking by intercepting victims before they’re lost across borders. Every skip she takes is a step toward saving lives.

Marissa’s passion is personal. Inspired by her mother’s work helping trafficking survivors in Asia, she’s using her platform, strength, and story to protect those who need it most.

💛 Join us as Marissa shares how she’s turning an unconventional sport into a movement for justice—and why she believes every jump can change a life.

Links:

👉 Support her campaign: BackaBuddy – The Rope Runner’s Race for Humanity

Marissa's Instagram page

Marissa's Facebook

Comrades Marathon 

Ryan Sandes: Run. Risk. Reward.: My Epic Trail-Running Adventures

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