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Run Wild 2026: Hundreds of smiles, animal costumes and over £8,000 raised for rescued animals

What an incredible day!

Our very first Run Wild 5K took place on Sunday, and what a debut it was. From the moment our runners gathered at the start line to the final finishers crossing the line with huge smiles on their faces, the atmosphere was nothing short of amazing.

A total of 113 runners and walkers took on the wild challenge, helping to raise more than £8,500 (and counting) to support the hundreds of rescued animals who call the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary home.

Going wild in every sense

Run Wild wasn’t just about running – it was about having fun, coming together as a community and making a difference.

Participants fully embraced the wild theme, with a fantastic selection of animal fancy dress on display. Among our favourites were a giant lobster, an elegant giraffe and the brilliantly creative ‘flock of seagulls and chips’ from the team at CVS Vets.

There were plenty of smiles, laughter and encouragement from start to finish, making it a truly memorable day for everyone involved.

Entertainment every step of the way

The course was buzzing with live entertainment. Huge thanks to FaT Samba, Wight Ukers and The Watch for creating an incredible atmosphere throughout the course, and to Tori from Snap Fitness for leading an energetic warm-up before the start.

Thank you

Events like this simply couldn’t happen without the support of our headline sponsor The Price is Wight, event sponsor Gurit, our volunteer marshals, entertainers, and every runner, walker, supporter and spectator who made the day so special.

Already planning for 2027!

We’re delighted to confirm that Run Wild will return in 2027. We hope to grow the event year after year, creating one of the Isle of Wight’s most exciting and family-friendly fundraising events.

Be the first to hear about Run Wild 2027

Pre-register your interest to be the first to hear when entries open and receive 10% off your registration fee.

Every step makes a difference

As an independent charity, Wildheart Animal Sanctuary needs to raise almost £2 million every year to provide a safe and secure future for the hundreds of rescued animals in our care and continue our vital rescue and conservation work. Events like Run Wild go a long way in helping us achieve this goal.

Plans are already underway for 2027, and pre-registration is now open for anyone interested in taking part next year!