We have made the decision to hold our RUN WILD 5/10k race virtually this year. RUN WILD is one of our most successful events of the year and we always look forward to seeing everyone come out to support the Zoo, and we hope that you will consider racing with us virtually this year!

Sign up for the 5k or 10k distance and run your course any time between September 20 and October 4. Run near your home or on a treadmill – anything goes this year! Maybe you want to kayak your 5k or ride a unicycle this year. 2020 is the year we all get to be a little more creative! The race routes will be posted on our website and we are partnering with RaceJoy to make it easy for you to track your distance no matter where you run or walk.

This year we want you to help us raise awareness about some of our most endangered animals – red pandas, orangutans, and Amur tigers. Choose who you want to represent while you run! Every registered runner will receive a T-shirt and a run buff representing the animal you pick.

We would like to thank everyone for the support, it means so much to everyone here at Henry Vilas Zoo!

How does a virtual Run work?

• Unlike other races, your virtual run can be completed any time between September 20 – October 4. Whether you walk or run inside on a treadmill, or outside on a sidewalk, please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind and observe all social distancing guidelines. Virtual Run for the Zoo is great for all ages because you can run the race at your own pace! Whether you’re running the 10K or walking 1 mile with your family, know that we are all going miles together, while staying six feet apart.

How do I know how far to run? 

• We have partnered with RaceJoy to make it possible to track your distance. RaceJoy will send you progress alerts based on the distance you registered to run. It also lets you receive audio cheers from remote friends and family. RaceJoy is an optional way to make your race more interactive.

Why should I sign up? 

• RUN WILD is on of Henry Vilas Zoo’s largest fundraisers each year. With the Zoo closed for the first time in our history this year and our in-person run cancelled, holding a virtual run helps us raise money for both the zoo, and wildlife conservation efforts helping some of our most endangered animals. We’ve teamed up with AZA’s Orangutan SAFE program, the Red Panda Network, and the Tiger Conservation Campaign and part of every race registration goes directly to support their conservation efforts. Everyone who registers gets a Run Wild t-shirt, and gets a face wrap representing the animal they decided to run for. Who will you run for this year?