Are you up to the challenge?

Sunday 27 January 2019

Durrell is calling for road racers to lace up their trainers and get dashing to raise money for the Wildlife Trust as it enters their 60th anniversary year.

Runners of all abilities are being encouraged to sign up for the annual 13km road race as the Durrell Challenge returns for a fourth year which the trust hopes will be “their biggest and best yet."

Racers willing to take on the challenge will take their marks on Sunday 12 May in St. Helier’s Victoria Park and the finish line is set up at Durrell itself.

Organisers have reminded participants that they are eligible for an early bird rate if they sign up before the end of January. 

The 13km route, described as “challenging” will wind through valleys and country lanes, with designated areas for the public to support the racers from. 

Pictured: Organisers are calling for sign-ups for the fourth annual Durrell Challenge (Ollie Jones/Studio M).

Runners who register as VIPs – committing to raise more than £1,200 for the charity – will enjoy some extras on the day including a welcome drink and buffet. These runners may also get a chance to meet Durrell Ambassador Henry Cavill, but organisers can’t guarantee that the film star will be present.

Once the race is finished, participants and supporters are invited back to Jersey Zoo for the ‘Really Wild Day’ where there will be an array of nature-based activities as well as an adventure quest for young wilderness explorers.

For 2019 and 2020, the Durell Challenge has taken on Butterfield Bank as a new sponsor for the race and ‘Really Wild Day’. Commenting on their sponsorship, COO at the bank Noel McLaughlin said: “We are delighted to support Durrell with its 13K road race and Really Wild Day for 2019 and 2020. Both are fantastic events, which raise money for such a worthy cause.  

Mr McLaughlin added that Butterfield “look forward to working with Durrell for the next two years.”

Lead picture: (Ollie Jones/Studio M).