Zak's Toy Run 2025 spreads more magic in memory of Navan schoolboy

The third annual Zak's Toy Run in memory of 11-year-old Navan schoolboy Zak Moran was another resounding success with organisers saying it was even bigger than last year.

Little Zak Moran passed away in 2022 after a brave battle with cancer and his heartbroken family wanted to do something meaningful to help other children going through treatment while also keep their adored son's memory alive and spreading a little magic in his name.

And so Zak's Toy Run was born. The idea is simple- to gather toys to donate to two children's hospitals to be distributed throughout the year to help give a little boost to the little warriors going through treatment.

On Saturday, Zak's Toy Run 2025 roared off from the Navan Retail Park with over 75 motorbikes accompanying the convoy of vans carrying the toys, which were guided by marshals to both hospitals.

Zak's dad Dave told how approximately 2,750 toys were donated this year. A staggering amount of toys that will make a massive difference to the lives of the children who receive them.

Using €10 as a guide for each present, which is a fairly low estimate in these times, Dave said that would equate to about €27,500 euro worth of toys.

There were also online donations to the Go Fund Me page to a total of €2,285 so Dave explained that in total, there were over €30,000 worth of toys donated and delivered.

He said: "The toys were all individually labelled with the 'Zak Rocks On' stickers and boxed in our home, there were a total of 160 boxes packed. Half of the boxes were then delivered to each hospital, so 80 boxes per hospital. Three vans were used to transport the boxes with big thanks to the drivers.

"Both hospitals gave us a very warm welcome and reiterated how delighted they were to receive the toys and how the toys help so much throughout the year.

"The toy run's success each year is down to the amazing kindness and generosity of the public with their donations, across a variety of groups from the local community, schools, businesses and of course the biking community.

"Without these amazing donations, we would have nothing to deliver. Each toy donated will make a huge difference to a child if even for a few minutes to take their minds off the current situation they are dealing with and in.

"We cannot thank people enough for their kindness and generosity, and for making this year's run a great success. Hopefully the run will continue to grow each year, helping more children and keeping Zak's memory alive."