Picture Shows: A last second leap saves a Thomsons gazelle from a cheetahs trip. Cheetahs are the fastest land animals on the planet, reaching top speeds of almost 60mph when chasing their prey. However, the success or failure of a hunt is determined both by the cheetah's speed, and also by how well it can match the twists and turns of its prey; this one has been out maneuvered. This photograph was not shot on location during filming of The Hunt.