Birmingham Zoo Run
The Birmingham Zoo Run is an annual 5-kilometer foot race sponsored by the Birmingham Chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) and held at the Birmingham Zoo in May. The proceeds of each year's run goes to a non-profit group focusing on a particular species of wild animal.
History
The first three runs were subtitled "Stampeding for Wild Elephants." In 2009 the focus was changed to "Run Wild for Orangutans."
2006
The 1st Annual Zoo Run was held May 12, 2006. The two main events were the 10K Cheetah Challenge and 5K You Can Toucan. There was also a Turtle Trot fun run for children. Through participants and sponsors, the event raised raised over $10,000 for the International Elephant Foundation.
2007
The 2nd Annual Zoo Run was scheduled to be held May 11, 2007. Planned events were the 5K Elephant Stampede, plus fun runs the Turtle Trot (ages 0-2), You Can Toucan (ages 3-6), and Cheetah Challenge (7-12). Due to lightning, all runs were canceled and the zoo was unable to reschedule. To compensate participants, a free day for them was held at the zoo on June 10. Despite the weather, a party with food and animal encounters was still held in the children's zoo. Proceeds went to the International Elephant Foundation.
2008
The 3rd Annual Zoo Run was held May 10, 2008. Proceeds went to the International Elephant Foundation.
2009
The 4th Annual Zoo Run was held May 16, 2009. The main event was the 5K Run Wild for Orangutans. Fun runs included the Turtle Trot (for ages 0-2), Chicken Cha-Cha (3-4), Zebra Zip (5-6), and Cheetah Challenge (7-12). Proceeds went to the Orangutan Conservatory. The Zoo stated afterward on their web site that it was their best turnout to date.
2010
The 5th Annual Zoo Run will be held May 15, 2010. The main event is the 5K Run Wild for Orangutans. Fun runs include the Turtle Trot (for ages 0-2), Chicken Cha-Cha (3-4), Zebra Zip (5-6), and Cheetah Challenge (7-12). Proceeds go to the Orangutan Conservatory.
References
External links
- Zoo Run page at BirminghamZoo.com