The Monkstown Spartans Belfast Zoo 5K is a unique two-lap road race set entirely within the grounds of Belfast Zoo on the slopes of Cave Hill. Runners begin a steep meandering ascent through the zoo gates to the top of the zoological gardens, before descending and repeating the lap. The course finishes at the adventure play park near the flamingo lake. Backdropped by panoramic views of Cave Hill and Belfast Lough, the route is notably hilly, with challenging climbs and fast downhill sections on zoo paths. A timed event of 60 minutes, it is as scenic as it is demanding.