Zoo run to benefit endangered African wild dogs

Run Wild For Painted Dogs, the 2013 Zoo Run, is scheduled for Saturday, May 11 at 7:30 a.m.

The race supports the Painted Dog Conservation, which works with communities in Africa to protect the continent’s most endangered species, Painted Dogs or African Wild Dogs, whose numbers have dipped below 5,000.

The race begins in the zoo’s parking lot and ends at the Trails of Africa exhibit. Because the race ends in the park, participants will be issued a free park wristband. Family and friends, however, must purchase wristbands unless they are members with their membership I.D.

The 5K is $25 ($30 after May 4), children’s races are $12, and additional wristbands for zoo entry are $7.

On-site registration is at 6:30 a.m., 5K participants assemble at 7:20 a.m. and the 5K race begins at 7:30 a.m.

Children’s races are as follows: The Turtle Trot, ages 0-2, 8:15 a.m.; The Chicken Cha Cha, ages 3-4, 8:25 a.m.; The Groundhog Gallop, ages 5-7, 8:35 a.m.; and the Serval Spring, ages 8-12, 8:45 a.m.

The Awards Ceremony begins and the zoo opens 9 a.m. Participants also receive an event T-shirt.

For more or to register visit birminghamzoo.com/events/.