Cheetah Run is back!

Olympian Aoife Cooke launched the run, which marks its return to the 100 acre park on Thursday 19 May after a two-year hiatus.

Fota Wildlife Park hosts the event in conjunction with Eagle Athletic and uses the funding raised to support conservation projects. The Cheetah Run is sponsored by John Buckley Sports, and Brooks Running and the registration is open for entry at eagleac.net.

The race attracts 1,000 participants and offers runners an exclusive route through the 100 acre Fota Wildlife Park and through Fota House and Gardens.

Aoife Cooke said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be launching the Cheetah Run, it’s a unique race and even more so, as the race will be returning on site for the first time in two years. So many people have been getting involved in fitness and running since the pandemic and I would say that now is the chance to take part in a very accessible competition in terms of distance.”

“Plus, I’m also delighted to see that Eagle Athletic Club is encouraging the younger runners to take part. There is a mile-long race for those aged 11 to 15, so like Fota Wildlife Park itself, the Cheetah Run is suitable for the wider family.”

Registration costs €15 per adult runner and €8 per juvenile. The juvenile race is open to those aged 11-15. The adult race commences at 8pm and the juvenile race starts at 7.15pm on Thursday 19 May.