Third Annual ZooRun5K presented by Gilly Vending and ZooKidsDash presented by Kidz Medical Services at Zoo Miami, November 14, 2015

Zoo Miami again will host a 5K race it can call its own! Zoo Miami Foundation (formerly Zoological Society of Florida) and West Kendall Baptist Hospital have partnered to offer two fun, wild events on November 14, 2015.

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 ZooRun5K presented by Gilly Vending, which sold out the last two years, 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 ZooKidsDash presented by Kidz Medical Services 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. Participants are also being asked to dress or accessorize like their favorite animal to win prizes at the costume contest.

“We are delighted to be working with our partners at West Kendall Baptist Hospital again to bring back our very own 5K! With over 4,000 race participants last year, 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!” said Ron Magill, Zoo Miami Communications and Media Relations Director.

“West Kendall Baptist Hospital is thrilled to partner with Zoo Miami in hosting this 5K race. This event is an extension of our multi-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,” said Michelle Mejia, AVP, at West Kendall Baptist Hospital. “What better way than to get outdoors and run with the animals.” The ZooRun5K presented by Gilly Vending pre-sale price of $30 is valid today through October 30 and increases to $35 from October 31 through November 13. Registration fees will increase to $45 on race day. The ZooKidsDash presented by Kidz Medical Services pre-sale price of $10 is valid today through October 30 and increases to $15 from October 31 to November 13. Race day fee for kids ages 2-9 is $20. 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 t-shirt, 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% discount on race day!

About West Kendall Baptist Hospital

West Kendall Baptist Hospital provides patient- and family-centered care to one of South Florida’s most vibrant and fast-growing communities. Recognized as a Magnet® organization for its rigorous standards of nursing excellence, the hospital also earned LEED Gold certification for its sustainable construction and operating practices. Its ACGME-accredited family medicine residency program operates in partnership with Florida International University’s Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. West Kendall Baptist Hospital is part of the not-for-profit, faith-based Baptist Health South Florida family. Visit http://WestKendallBaptistHospital.com.

About Zoo Miami Foundation

The Zoo Miami Foundation, formerly The Zoological Society of Florida, founded in 1956, is the non-profit support organization for Zoo Miami. Today it is one of the largest membership organizations in South Florida, with more than 60,000 members. Its activities and programs include fundraising, marketing, volunteer services, educational programs, special events and member programming. Its mission is to encourage an appreciation for the world’s wildlife and to help conserve it for future generations. For more information, please visit www.zoomiami.org under Support Zoo Miami or call (305) 255-5551.

About Zoo Miami

Zoo Miami is located at 12400 SW 152 Street, Miami, FL 33177. General zoo admission is $19.95 per adult and $15.95 per child (3-12), plus tax. Children under two and zoo members enter free; parking is free. On weekends and holidays, Zoo Miami’s hours are 9:30 am – 5:30 pm; ticket booths close at 4 pm. On weekdays, Zoo Miami’s hours are 10 am – 5 pm; ticket booths close at 3:30 pm. For more information, please visit www.zoomiami.org or call (305) 251-0400.

Contacts: Vanessa Ramos, 305-793-0241 and Cindy Castelblanco, 305-328-8811