Run Wild Races

Run Wild Races: Run for Tortoises

Located at the Metro Richmond Zoo in Moseley, Virginia, this event features multiple courses that take participants through zoo pathways and surrounding perimeter areas. The event supports the conservation of endangered tortoise species. All registered participants receive a complimentary ticket to visit the zoo on the day of the race.

The event offers several distinct formats:

• 5k: A timed all-terrain course consisting of dirt, mulch, grass trails, gravel, and asphalt. The route includes rolling hills and bridges over creeks, passing through the internal zoo and the Cheetah Conservation Center.
• Mini 1 Mile: A timed run for children ages 2 to 11. The course is approximately 70% pavement with some gravel, grass, and dirt sections.
• Wild Ninja: A 2-mile all-terrain obstacle course featuring up to 42 challenges modeled after American Ninja Warrior and obstacle course racing. It uses a scoring system based on the IUCN Red List categories to measure success.
• Virtual 5k: A flexible option that can be completed at any location.

The 5k and 1-mile events are timed, while the Wild Ninja event focuses on obstacle completion rather than speed. Participants in the on-site races may see exotic wildlife along the routes, though some animals remain off-exhibit until the zoo officially opens. The courses feature varied terrain, and strollers used in the 1-mile event must be capable of handling off-road conditions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.