SYNOPSIS

Mount Cameroon Race of Hope is a marathon held annually since 1973, attracting global athletes with its 38 km length and 3,200 m elevation gain. The event takes place within Mount Cameroon National Park, a hotspot of biodiversity that shelters endangered species like forest elephants. Our project aims to produce a documentary exploring the relationship between the race and conservation efforts. The film will highlight how sport, nature, and development intertwine, showcasing ecotourism as an alternative to unsustainable practices. Supported by entities like KfW and WWF, the Natural Park and the race fosters awareness and partnerships for sustainable development, despite the critical political and security situation in the region, the event it’s still taking place since more than 50 years. After field and archive research in 2023, we documented and shooted the race in Buea in 2025. The story targets diverse audiences and offers a unique perspective on African ecosystems ecology, community resilience, and the power of sport to inspire environmental and community action.

GÉNÉRIQUE

• Director

  Riccardo Raspa

• Production

  Riccardo Pavesi

• Referent

  Riccardo Pavesi

• Sales

  Riccardo Raspa

• Script

  Matteo Bico

• Film score composer

  Pablo Mateo Sanchez

• Text

  Nalova Akua

• Camera

  Luca Scarpellini