Superman returns for third Durrell Challenge

Sunday 06 May 2018

Jersey actor Henry Cavill, who is well known for his role as Superman, is returning to Jersey next weekend for the third Durrell Challenge… although we can’t promise he’ll carry you.

The Blockbuster hero and Hollywood actor has competed in the 13k race for the past two years as he’s the ambassador for the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust. But as Superman shows, it’s not for the faint-hearted.

Runners will start the race on Sunday 13^th May 2018 at 09:00 at Victoria Park, before taking on a course of country lanes with some challenging hills before they reach the finish line at Jersey zoo. The race will be timed using race chip technology, and there will be water stations along the way with some post-race messages on offer at the end.

Durrell hoped runners of all abilities will take on the challenge – which has attracted almost 400 entrants from 15 countries since it started – to raise valuable funds to go towards the protection of endangered species.

Not only will Henry Cavill be among the crowd of over 600 runners expected to take part in the fundraising challenge, but he will also be hosting a VIP experience for over 40 runners who have already committed to raise over £1,000 for the trust.

Pictured: Henry Cavill has been trying to entice runners via social media to take on the Durrell Challenge. 

There will also be two other events taking place at Jersey Zoo on the day of the race. Families can enjoy a ‘Really Wild Day’ from 10:00 which promises a day out with a twist saying; “Head back to nature, kick off your shoes, feel the grass between your toes and dance. Enjoy live music as well as food and drink in Jersey Zoo’s beautiful natural settings. Let your children go wild and enjoy barefoot walking trails, magical storytelling and activities that get them closer to nature. Learn about Jersey Zoo’s superhero animals and the awesome work that Durrell does saving wildlife around the world.”

There will also be a ‘Superhero Safari’ on offer this year. Children, under the age of 10, are invited to complete an important mission for Durrell! Young adventurers will need to seek out all the superhero animals situated around Jersey Zoo and discover their unique super powers. Each mini superhero will receive a mission booklet to complete, with questions to answer and stickers to collect. Once their mission is complete, they head to mission control where it will be checked and verified. If all answers are correct their name will be entered into the “SUPER” prize draw. 

For those who really want to get involved, organisers are looking for volunteers to assist as race route marshals for the challenge. Those who are able to support the event should 505926 to register.

Lead photo: Tiffany Lang.