Zoo Miami again will host a 5K race it can call its own. The Zoological Society of Florida and West Kendall Baptist Hospital have partnered to offer two fun, wild events on Nov. 16. Unlike other 5Ks and walks held at the zoo, this event will offer benefits that only the team at the zoo can offer, running through the Zoo Miami exhibit path and bringing back memories of the renowned Jungle Jog run that started 31 years ago and ended in 2002.
The Tommy Hilfiger ZooRun5K, which sold out in its inaugural year, is for folks of every speed — from cheetah to tortoise — so no matter your pace, come out for fun and exercise. This 3.1-mile timed race is walker friendly and will take place around the entire zoo. The Kidz Medical Services ZooKidsDash is a race for kids ages 2- 9. This race will include a range of distances from 100 to 525 meters and opportunities to interact with Gigi, Kaz and Pio, the popular Zoo Squad mascots.
“We are pleased to team up with West Kendall Baptist Hospital again to bring back the excitement of 5K running at the zoo,” said Ron Magill, Zoo Miami communications and media relations director. “With 2,000 race registrants already, we know that children and families want to be at Zoo Miami to experience this amazing park. Come take a walk (or run!) on the wild side,” he added.
“West Kendall Baptist Hospital is thrilled to partner with Zoo Miami in hosting this 5K race,” said Michelle Mejia, assistant vice president at West Kendall Baptist Hospital. “This event is an extension of our three-year partnership focused on the health of our environment and our community. With the Healthy Zoo, Healthy You initiative, part of the Healthy West Kendall coalition, we hope to inspire our community to make healthy living a priority. What better way than to get outdoors and run with the animals.”
The Tommy Hilfiger ZooRun5K price is $35 from through Nov. 15. Registration fees will increase to $45 on race day. The Kidz Medical Services ZooKidsDash pre-sale price of $10 is valid through Nov. 15 and increases to $17 on the day of the race. An additional processing fee will be added per transaction.
The first 4,000 5K and 1,000 Kids Dash registrants will receive free admission to Zoo Miami, a premium Tshirt, themed finisher medal, post race food and a race unlike any in South Florida. As if all of this weren’t enough, race registrants can purchase Zoo Miami tickets for friends and family with a 50 percent discount on race day. To register, visit <http://zoomiami. org/run>.
Zoo Miami is located at 12400 SW 152 St. General zoo admission is $15.95 per adult and $11.95 per child (3-12), plus tax. Children under 2 and zoo members enter free; parking is free. Zoo Miami’s hours are 9:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.; ticket booths close at 4 pm.
For more information, visit <www.zoomiami.org> or call 305- 251-0400.
