Run or walk past kangaroos, red pandas, giraffes and cheetahs while supporting Binder Park Zoo and cheetah conservation during the 15th annual Binder Park Zoo Cheetah Chase in June.
This unique 5K takes place starting at 8 a.m. Saturday, June 24, at the zoo, located at 7400 Division Drive in Battle Creek. A custom Cheetah Chase shirt comes with the $55 registration for the event, and after participants complete their 5K adventure through the zoo they receive a ticket for a beer or nonalcoholic beverage courtesy of Bell’s Brewery.
“This event offers runners and walkers an unparalleled race experience with spectacular views of nature and wildlife along the entire route on zoo grounds,” said Angi Cheney, manager of volunteers, events and facility services at Binder Park Zoo.
The race is open to racers of all ages and skill levels, and whether you walk or run, “It’s a great event to just get out and walk with friends or family,” said Lindsey Casey, 34, of Ceresco, a 2014 race participant.
“Free admission to the zoo after the race and a beer for those over 21 and a cool shirt makes it super fun and unique and sets it apart from other races,” Casey said.
Binder Park Zoo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). There are 238 AZA-accredited zoos and Binder Park Zoo is one of only four zoos that does not receive tax funding, using fundraising events like the Cheetah Chase to support zoo operation and animal conservation.
“Delivering the message of conservation through exciting encounters and fun experiences, like the Cheetah Chase, lies at the heart of the zoo’s mission to ‘Connect. Inspire. Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve,’” Cheney said, “as well as its vision of ‘turning apathy into empathy and compassion into action.’”
Come join the adventure and support the zoo, and of course cheetahs, during the 15th annual Cheetah Chase on Saturday, June 24. Check-in is at 7 a.m. with the race beginning at 8 a.m. Registration is $55 March 1 through June 16. Late registration is available at an additional cost. Details can be found on the event website at binderparkzoo.org/events.
