Cork's famous Cheetah Run to take place next month

The 16th annual Eagle Athletic Club (AC) Cheetah Run has been officially launched and this year takes place on Thursday, May 14 at Fota Wildlife Park.

The annual race serves as an important fundraising event for Fota Wildlife Park and funds raised during the event support the park’s vital ongoing conservation work.

On hand to officially launch the race was 83-year-old masters athlete Billy Cabal, who has completed more Cheetah Runs than any other runner since its inception in 2008.

The race offers participants the rare opportunity to run through the grounds of Fota Wildlife Park, passing giraffes, zebras, ostriches, cheetahs and other animals along the route.

The event features a 5k route for adults (aged 16 and over) and a one mile race for junior runners (11-15 years), with the event sponsored by John Buckley Sports and Brooks Running.

Last year the event raised €5,000 for the Red Panda Network, helping protect this endangered species. Funds raised annually support Fota Wildlife Park’s conservation programmes, including endangered species protection and native wildlife initiatives.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Cabal said the Cheetah Run is an event he looks forward to ever year.

“This is a unique event that Cork runners really look forward to, it brings people together to enjoy running, get active, spend time outdoors, and support an important charity at the heart of the community, Fota Wildlife Park,” 

he said.

Karen Bevan, one of the Eagle AC race directors, said Mr Cabal perfectly captures what the Cheetah Run is all about – “bringing people together to support the fantastic work done at Fota Wildlife Park.”

“We’re really delighted to have Billy Cabal launch the 2026 Cheetah Run. He’s our most regular runner in the event, and his consistency in returning year after year says a lot about what makes this race so special.”

Aileen Tennant, director of Fota Wildlife Park, added: “To Eagle AC and every runner who has joined the race, a huge thank you from the team at Fota. The annual Cheetah Run raises awareness, helps to fund conservation and connects people with nature. We are very grateful to you for showing up for wildlife.”

Online registration for the race is now available at Eventmaster.ie