Photo by Jane Padfield
Kids and adults participate in a previous Make Tracks for the Zoo race event.
About 2,500 participants are expected to Make Tracks for the Zoo during its 31st annual race event scheduled for Sunday, May 22, beginning at 7:30 a.m. The long-running fundraiser typically brings in $90,000 annually to support the St. Louis Zoo’s conservation work locally and around the world.
In-person registration, located at the Zoo’s Living World information center, is $25 for the 5K or one mile run and $12 for kids’ runs. Race day registration costs are $30 for the 5K or one-mile run and $15 for kids’ runs, with all proceeds going to the zoo’s conservation efforts. Online registration, which includes a small processing fee, is available through Saturday at the Make Tracks for the Zoo website.
The day’s activities also include the free Just Like You at the Zoo educational program that helps kids learn about health habits that are crucial for humans and animals and humans alike, all while earning a prize.
“St. Louis Children’s Hospital’s Just Like You at the Zoo focuses on teaching children why it’s important for people – and Zoo animals – to take care of their bodies,” said Megan Mahar, special events coordinator. “Kids will collect animal cards at four stations throughout the Zoo where they will participate in a fun activity that teaches them about a specific behavior that is important for their health.”
Everyone who registers will receive a T-shirt and continental breakfast while supplies last. Make Tracks for the Zoo includes timed runs for people of all ages as well as untimed walks and runs in which every participant receives a ribbon.
“The variety of different races we have—5K, one mile, 1/2 mile, and 1/4 mile—really encourages any and all ages to participate in Make Tracks for the Zoo. It is so fun to watch mom or dad participate in the 5K and then stand on the sidelines cheering on their little ones to run as fast as they can when it’s their turn to race,” Mahar said. “We’re encouraging families to come visit the Zoo after the race to make a whole day of family fun.”
