ANIMAL-LOVING ATHLETES hoping to run in the 2002 Flora London Marathon are being offered the chance to join in the race to raise funds to help animals around the world.

The IFAW Charitable Trust - the educational arm of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) - has purchased seven Golden Bond places in the London Marathon which takes place in April next year. The organisation is now looking for runners to take up those places who not only have the stamina to compete in such a challenging race, but also the determination and commitment to raise considerable funds.

Phyllis Campbell-McRae, Director of the IFAW Charitable Trust (ICT), said: “We are offering seven people the fabulous opportunity to compete in the most famous race in the world. It is also the number one annual charity fundraising event in Britain: £24 million was raised by runners in 2000. We are looking for keen runners who also love animals to join the ICT team. In return for their commitment to compete in the race and raise as much money as they can for the animals, we will give them every support in preparing for and participating in this world-famous event”.

Members of the ICT team will be given a sponsorship pack to assist them with their fundraising, T-shirts, goody bags and expect advice on their training programme, as well as support from the IFAW press office to get publicity for their participation in the race.

Runners who have already secured a place in the Marathon can also become a part of the IFAW team. Phyllis Campbell-McRae explained: “The IFAW Charitable Trust works to educate the public in the conservation and protection of animals, as well as in the prevention of cruelty to animals. The Trust’s aims are to create a better life for animals worldwide through education and research. There will be many, many people running in the Marathon who are concerned about the protection of animals and their environment who will welcome this first ever opportunity to take part in support of the IFAW Charitable Trust”.

Applicants for an IFAW Golden Bond place in the London Marathon and runners who already have places and would like to join the IFAW team, please contact Karen Aycinena at IFAW on 020 7587 6700 for further information.