Zak’s Toy Run takes place tomorrow

The third annual Zak's Toy Run in memory of little Zak Moran from Navan who passed away in 2022 at the age of 11 after a brave battle with cancer, takes place tomorrow (Saturday), 6th December.

The event is organised by Zak's friends and family, in conjunction with a number of motorcycle clubs and groups including Devils Disciples MC, Green Demons SC, Tarbh MCC, Outkasts MCC, Meath Bike Meets, Lost Rats MCC and Holly Dennis Racing.

The 2025 Toy Run will start from Navan Retail Park, meeting from 10am with 'stands up' at 11.30am.

Supporters of the event include St Paul's Primary School, St Oliver's Primary School, St Patrick's Classical School, St Joseph's Mercy Convent, Tigers Childcare, Oakleaves Pre School & Montessori, Bank of Ireland and Allied Irish Bank, Boliden Tara Mines, Stauntons Pharmacy, Navan, Larry's Blackdragon Kickbox Cavan / JJB.

All the schools involved set up individual collections and dates and information is available on their social media platforms.

Zak's dad David spoke of how overwhelmed they have been by the generosity shown by people and thanked everyone for their ongoing support in helping them to keep Zak's memory alive by “spreading a little bit of magic in his name”.

“Last year we had hoped to collect a few boxes of toys for the children’s hospitals but the support we received was unbelievable and went above and beyond what we had hoped for.

“Over 2,000 gifts were donated to Zak's Toy Run. The huge amount of gifts donated was a measure of the incredible kindness of people and also a lovely reminder of how much Zak is loved, missed and remembered by everyone.

“The effort and support shown by the local community and businesses is unbelievable and has grown each year. We look forward to another successful toy run this year supported by the local community and without the support of the local community and business we could not do the run in memory of Zak,” he said.

Daivd explained that the gifts donated will be delivered on the 6th December to sick children in Temple Street Children's Hospital and Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, and handed out over the Christmas period and throughout the year.

“We know from Zak's experience in hospital that receiving a gift is a welcome distraction and gives a sick child a little lift when they are going through a tough time,” said David.

For anyone who won't make it to the collection point to drop off a toy, but who would still like to support the cause, they can do so on the Go Fund Me page 'Zak's Toy Run 2025' or by scanning the QR code on the poster.