Annual Run for the Animals supports Cosley Zoo's educational and conservation initiatives

Get your blood pumping while giving from the heart on Saturday, June 3 and join the Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 2023.

The fundraising run comes in three sizes: a 10K, a 5K and a 1/2 Mile kids run. Runners may choose to run the race in person or virtually.

The two longer races start at 7:30 a.m. while the kids fun run begins at 8:45 a.m. The run will take place near Memorial Park and will wind through the streets of Wheaton.

Hosted by the Cosley Foundation, the run raises money to support the development of new animal exhibits, educational programming and conservation initiatives at Cosley Zoo.

One of Cosley Zoo's Junior Zookeepers, Kaja Few, will sing the national anthem before the race. Representatives from Duly Health will provide post-race stretching for all interested participants.

"It is incredibly heartwarming to see thousands of people coming out in support of the zoo and its important education and conservation efforts while having a great day with friends and family. Because of this enduring support, Cosley Zoo has become one of the premier small zoos in the nation, and a special community treasure." says Susan Wahlgren, director of Cosley Zoo.

Registration for the 5K and the 10K is $40 per runner through Tuesday, May 30 and $45 from May 31 through June 3.

The Kids' Half-Mile race is $20 for runners age 4 to 10 through May 30 and $25 May 31 through June 3.

Each runner in the chip-timed 10K and 5K races will receive a commemorative race T-shirt and a finisher medal.

The Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals is the first in a series of three runs that comprise the Race Wheaton trio of races. It is followed by the Light the Torch 5K Night Run on September 30 and the Reindeer Run 5K on Dec. 2.

Register for Race Wheaton and participate in all three races for only $90.

Run for the Animals packet pickup will be available from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 1 at the Wheaton Park District Community Center, 1777 S. Blanchard St., Wheaton. Packets also can be picked up on race day from 6:15 to 7:15 a.m. in Memorial Park, 225 Karlskoga Ave. in Wheaton.

For more information, visit cosleyzoo.org/run.