Eddie the Eagle is taking on the Colchester Zoo Stampede!

Eddie the Eagle, Colchester United Football Club’s mascot, will be running the Colchester Zoo Stampede on Sunday 18 May to raise vital funds for us!

Here’s an exclusive interview with our feathered friend…

How long have you been the matchday mascot at Colchester Utd?

Caw! Time flies when you’re swooping around the stadium! I’ve been a part of the U’s family for a good while now, watching the team soar to new heights…and some lows! I’ve lost track of the exact number of seasons (and all the high-fives!), but I’ve seen many great moments!

What do you love about being the mascot?

I love getting the crowd pumped up! Making everyone smile and doing silly dances! Seeing the fans’ faces light up when I swoop by and being a symbol of the team’s spirit. It’s about bringing that high-flying energy to the game!

How did you get the job?

They were looking for someone with a sharp eye, a strong spirit, and the ability to rally the troops! I showed them my best aerial manoeuvres, my loudest ‘CAW,’ and my unwavering support for the U’s! They knew I was the eagle for the job! I also showed them I was very good at landing, which is very important!

Do you live in Colchester?

Absolutely! I live in a super-secret nest at the top of the stadium! So, I’m always close to the action. It’s got the best view of the whole town… Colchester is my territory!

Why are you running the Stampede?

Even eagles need to stretch their wings on the ground sometimes! I’m running to show that we’re all in this together.  I want to help everyone feel as good as I do when I’m soaring above the pitch, even if that means I have to run!  Everyone needs to feel happy, like when you get a big hug, and I want to help everyone feel super happy!

Why are you supporting Mid and North East Essex Mind?

Mental well-being is so important, even for the most soaring of spirits… and it affects everyone. I want to do my part to raise awareness and support those who need it. Mid and North East Essex Mind does incredible work, and I’m proud to be a part of it. We all need to look out for each other, and that includes our mental health.

Have you run a 10K before – do you have a time you’re hoping to achieve?

I’m more of a flyer than a runner, but I’ve been practicing my ground game! My goal is to finish strong and raise as much money as possible. If I can achieve a respectable time, that’s a bonus. I am hoping to finish before the sun sets.

How are you training?

Lots of long runs around the stadium, some speed drills on the pitch, and plenty of wing stretches! I’ve also been practicing my endurance by flying long distances and of course, working on my celebratory dance moves for the finish line!

On the big day, Eddie the Eagle will be joined by his supportive wing man, Steve Fall, 49. If you’d like to help them raise funds for local mental health support please click here and donate what you can – thank you!

Feeling inspired? There’s still time to sign up and join us for the wildest 10k in Essex! Sign up today!