Tipperary Olympian encourages people to food donation running challenge

Tipperary Olympian Sharlene Mawdsley and Zambrero Ireland are inviting runners across the country to join the first-ever Plate4Plate Zam Run, taking place nationwide this weekend from September 25 to September 28.

Mawdsley and Zambrero are inviting people nationwide to turn their weekend walks or runs into extra meal donations, with every kilometre logged supporting their charity partner, Rise Against Hunger.

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The Plate4Plate Zam Run takes place this weekend as part of Zambrero Ireland’s ongoing mission to tackle world hunger, which sees every meal purchased in-store matched with a donated meal through their charity partner Rise Against Hunger. In 2025 alone, Zambrero Ireland is on track to donate one million meals.

From Thursday, September 25 to Sunday, September 28, log a run or walk on your favourite fitness tracking app, take a screenshot of the distance recorded, and share it on your social media account, tagging @zambreroireland.

For each kilometre recorded, an extra meal will be donated on your behalf.

Darragh Fanning, Zambrero Ireland, said: "I'm really excited about this new element of our Plate4Plate initiative. The Zam Run is the perfect excuse to get outside this weekend and make your walk or run count for more than just your fitness goals. With the help of our Zam community all over Ireland, we hope to get everyone involved, whether it's 1 kilometre or 20 kilometres, it all counts. The Plate4Plate initiative is a special part of what we at Zambrero do, helping those in communities that need it most.”

Olympic sprinter and Zambrero ambassador for the initiative, Sharlene Mawdsley, is also encouraging runners to lace up and get out to help alleviate world hunger.

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Sharlene said: "I’m so happy to be supporting this amazing cause again and proud to be part of Zambrero’s mission to tackle world hunger. The first Zam Run this year is such a fun element, and for a cause that is close to my heart. I’d encourage everyone to get out for a run or a walk this weekend, no matter what the distance, and help add to the number of meals donated.”

Rise Against Hunger distributes meals to communities in dire need, including school feeding programs in regions with limited access to nutrition. Zambrero, is on track to donate one million meals in 2025 alone, strengthening its pledge for the year.