Brookfield Zoo's Zoo Run to Benefit Chicago Zoological Society's
Animal Care and Conservation Fund

Brookfield, Ill. –  Runners, walkers, and animal lovers of all ages can sprint, scamper, or stride at Brookfield Zoo’s annual Zoo Run, presented by Aquafina and Gatorade. The event, which takes place on Sunday, September 10, will benefit the Chicago Zoological Society’s Animal Care and Conservation Fund that is dedicated to making a difference for species across the globe and at Brookfield Zoo.

The 5K chip-timed race begins at 8:30 a.m. Children between the ages of 4 and 13 are welcome to register for the 1-mile Kids Dash, which starts at 9:30 a.m. The route for both races takes place inside the park along pathways that go past many of the animals, including giraffes, Bactrian camels, white pelicans, African lions, sloth bears, Galapagos tortoises, and western gray kangaroos, among others. Participants can invite family and friends to cheer them on during the event, and afterwards enjoy walking around the park at a more leisurely pace to see everyone’s favorite animals.

At 10 a.m., a ceremony will take place in the Discovery Center parking lot, where awards will be presented to the first-, second-, and third-place male and female finishers in the 5K as well as the top three participants in the 1-mile Kids Dash.

Registration for the 5K is $40 and $30 for the 1-mile Kids Dash (both have a minimal sign-up fee). Participants in both runs receive free Zoo admission and parking for themselves and their friends and family members, a sling backpack featuring the 2023 Zoo Run logo, a timed-bib, and snacks and beverages. On race day, registrants can enter and check in at the North Gate entrance starting at 6:30 a.m. Zoo Run will occur rain or shine. To register and for additional information, visit CZS.org/ZooRun.

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Photo Captions--credit CZS-Brookfield Zoo

0052 and 0105: Brookfield Zoo’s Zoo Run takes participants on a 5k course inside the park and past many of the animals’ habitats. Proceeds from the event go towards the Chicago Zoological Society’s Animal Care and Conservation Fund.

0203: A 1-mile Kids Dash for youngsters takes place during Brookfield Zoo’s annual Zoo Run.

About the Chicago Zoological Society
The mission of the Chicago Zoological Society is to inspire conservation leadership by connecting people to wildlife and nature. The Chicago Zoological Society is a private nonprofit organization that operates Brookfield Zoo on land owned by the Forest Preserves of Cook County. The Society is known throughout the world for its international role in animal population management and wildlife conservation. Brookfield Zoo is the first zoo in the world to be awarded the Humane Certified™ certification mark for the care and welfare of its animals, meeting American Humane Association’s rigorous certification standards. The Zoo is located at 8400 31st Street in Brookfield, Illinois, between the Stevenson (I-55) and Eisenhower (I-290) expressways and also is accessible via the Tri-State Tollway (I-294), Metra commuter line, and CTA and PACE bus service. For further information, visit CZS.org.