Run Wild Races

Run Wild Races

Run Wild Races is a biannual event held at the Metro Richmond Zoo on May 2, 2026. The event is presented in partnership with the zoo to raise animal conservation funds. Each participant receives free zoo admission on race day and spectators receive a 10 percent discount on zoo tickets for that day.

Distances offered include:

• 1 Mile Mini fun run through the zoo pathways.
• 5K All terrain 3.1 mile course around the zoo perimeter.
• Wild Ninja Approx. 2 mile obstacle course with up to 42 obstacles.

The Mini course follows the zoo’s scenic pathways and is composed of about 90 percent pavement, 5 percent gravel, and 5 percent dirt. Mini participants ages 2 and older require a ticket; children ages 2 to 7 must have a participating parent or designated chaperone. Awards for the Mini are given only to participants 17 and under. Some exhibits are closed during the run for animal safety and open to participants after the zoo opens.

The 5K begins inside the zoo and moves to perimeter trails, including access through the Cheetah Conservation Center and areas between the zoo’s double security fences. After nearly a mile of paved paths, the course uses dirt, mulch, grass, and gravel with winding turns, rolling hills, bridges, and a few steep climbs. 5K participants ages 5 and up require a ticket; ages 5 to 10 must be accompanied by a participating parent or designated chaperone.

The Wild Ninja course blends obstacle challenges inspired by televised ninja formats with animal survival themes. Obstacles test balance, strength, stamina, and grip; competitors earn points per obstacle and can rank on an IUCN style list of survival. The event states that 100 percent of net proceeds benefit Endangered Galapagos tortoises and Sulcata tortoises. Since fall 2020 the series has donated over $66,000 to various conservation projects. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.