Are you fast enough to beat the bulls?

Do you like the thrill of the chase? Or are you more into being chased?

Well, if it’s the latter that floats your boat then this Sunday’s second annual Validus Running of the Bulls 5k could be made for you.

Inspired by the hair-raising and world-famous running of the bulls in Pamplona, Spain, the elite runners — dressed as bulls — have a delayed start before chasing down the rest of the field.

The female and male bulls have staggered starts to make the chase as exciting as possible and prizes go to the top runners in various age category, excluding the bulls.

Last year’s race attracted 300 runners, while there is also a non-competitive run, a competitive walk and a recreational 5k walk.

This year the elite athletes include Chris Estwanik, Gideon Kigotho — last year’s winner — and Stephen Allen, while the top ladies feature last year’s winner Rose-Anna Hoey, Ashley Estwanik and Deon Breary.

The event is a MAAC-sanctioned road race and it is being held this year to raise money for charity Beyond Rugby, which was chosen by Validus employees.

Race director Candace Roach explained how last year’s inaugural event came about.

She said: “It was a joint venture between Chris and Ashley Estwanik – they’d run a couple of events like this in the States and we were looking for something to raise money locally.

“So Chris, myself and Karen Peckett, the other race director, just kind of ran with it last year.”

While there will be no holds barred when the race gets under way, the emphasis is very much on fun — and some eye-catching costumes.

She said: “It opens up the race to other runners as well — and that’s something that appeals to many people.

“Last year’s winners Rose-Anna Hoey and Gideon Kigotho are also being bulls this year so that opens it out even more.”

Candace added: “Last year the female bulls beat the male bulls so there’s a bit of rivalry there.”

There’s no doubt that the bulls dimension gives the island’s runners something else to think about other than their stopwatch.

“You can see them coming up behind you and some wear bells so your hear them coming,” said Candace.

“It raises the profile of local runners and it’s a fun event.”

The route begins in Richmond Road behind Robin Hood and ends at Chartis Building West parking lot.

Entry is online only this year. To do so log on to www.racedayworld.com. The deadline is 5pm on Friday, February 15.

The fees for competitive runners/walkers are: $32 for MAAC members, $37 for non-members, $45 for late entries (February 16 only).

The fees for recreational runners/walkers (not timed) are: $27 for MAAC members, $37 for non-members, $45 for late entries (February 16 only).

For more information, please email race directors Karen Peckett or Candace Roach at [email protected].

Alternatively call them on 278-9350 or  278-9344.