Leg it for lions in a ‘roar-some’ race at Whipsnade Zoo

Roar-some racers taking part in the zoo’s annual fundraising run will charge around the 10km or 2km circuits.

The pack will be passing some of the world’s most incredible animals, including speedy northern cheetahs and laid-back ring-tailed lemurs.

Celebrating its 10th year, the Whipsnade Zoo Stampede sees runners sprint, strut and stomp their way around the UK’s biggest zoo, and this year will raise funds for the Lions400 campaign to protect endangered Asiatic lions.

By taking part in the 10km run or 2km kids’ fun run, runners will be putting their best foot forward to help international conservation charity the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) carry out its vital work to protect the last 400 Asiatic lions living in the Gir Forest in India.

Last year determined challengers raised more than £26,000, and it’s hoped fundraisers can limber up and do even better this time around.

Ali Corbett, ZSL challenge and community events manager, said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming runners of all abilities for our 10th anniversary ZSL Whipsnade Zoo Stampede. It’s wonderful to see runners around the route ‘paws-ing’ when they catch a glimpse of one of our many incredible residents.

“It’s been a brilliant 10 years with participants digging deep to raise funds for us. We hope people will show such fantastic support again this year and help us protect the last stronghold of Asiatic lions.”

Sponsored by Ballygowan Natural Mineral Water, places in the pack are available now at www.zsl.org/whipsnadestampede, but pick up the pace as they are limited.

Entry fees include entrance to the zoo for the day, car parking for all participants, chip timing, and medals for all finishers. Prizes will also be presented to the first three male and female runners and the first mixed team in the 10km, and the winner of the 2km.