Don’t miss your chance to enjoy run through Fota Wildlife Park

The annual fundraising Eagle AC Cheetah Run was launched this week at Fota Wildlife Park.

The event, launched by Olympian Marian Heffernan, alongside her two daughters, Regan and Tara, will take place on May 15, with the gates opening from 6.30pm.

Last year’s event saw €5,000 raised for the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, contributing to the protection of the endangered Rothschild giraffe.

This year, participants of all ages are encouraged to take part in the Cheetah Run, with the option of a juvenile 1-mile race, for children aged 11 to 15 years old, and a standard 5km race, for anyone over the age of 16 years old.

The juvenile 1-mile race will begin at 7.15pm, with a maximum capacity of 125 runners, and will be followed by the 5km race, which will start at 8pm.

There will be a special focus on the Anne Lucey Murphy Memorial Cup this year, which will be awarded to the first female finisher of the 5km race.

“The annual Cheetah Run embraces so much of what is important to me, family, fitness, supporting a great cause and of course community,” said Ms Heffernan.

“I’m delighted to get involved and launch the race this year as it helps raise awareness for conservation work that Fota Wildlife Park does, as well as providing a great reason to get out there and get active.

“Every year I’m thrilled to see runners of all ages and abilities come together for this fantastic event.”

Eagle AC race director Karen Bevan said: “The Cheetah Run is one of the most exciting and unique races in the country, giving runners the chance to race through the stunning surroundings of Fota Wildlife Park.

“It’s a truly special experience, running past giraffes, ostriches, zebras, cheetahs, and more.”

Online registration for the event will open at 9am on April 1 on Eventmaster.ie, with tickets priced at €10 for the 1-mile race and €18 for the 5km race.