Irish Olympian, Rob Heffernan swapped the roads of Rio for the runway of Cork Airport today to launch the forthcoming VHI A Lust for Life run.

Following the hugely successful run last year, this year’s event on the night of Friday September 30 will be expanded due to popular demand to cater for 2,000 participants.

This year’s runners and walkers will kick off the event at the later time of 2am, covering the 5k course into the early hours of Saturday morning.

Speaking at the launch in Cork, Rob Heffernan praised A Lust For Life and their fantastic work throughout Ireland.

“I’m a huge believer in using exercise to put mental health on the map. Runners will get to experience Cork Airport like never before, so this is certainly an event with a difference.”

Ciaran Carton, General Manager, Operations at Cork Airport said last year’s event was fantastic with a brilliant atmosphere throughout the airport. “Interest in this year’s event is already building and registrations are coming in fast.”

He added: “I would encourage anyone who has been considering their first 5k or dusting off their runners to come and join us for this truly unique event. There will be a great buzz around the terminal and if last year is anything to go by everyone will have a really great time.”

“This year’s run will support Cork Airport’s staff charity of the year, The Cork City Hospitals Children’s Club, who we are very proud to partner with.”

The VHI A Lust for Life Run Series, in association with the Irish Independent, was set up with the aim of bringing people together through exercise to create awareness around mental health. The event at Cork Airport is the third and final run this year.

Everyone is welcome regardless of fitness levels with the emphasis of the event on wellbeing and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

For more information on how to take part in the Runway Run at Cork Airport, log on to www.fitmagazine.ie

Pictured Above: Rob Heffernan with Orla Burke (left) and Holly Conroy from The Loop at Cork Airport, along with Derry McVeigh, co-founder Lust for Life and Fergal Sargent of the Cork Airport Fire and Police Service.