The 2008 Run For the Zoo - Sunday, May 4, 2008

Fueled by the high octane of greatexpectations and hard work, the 23rd annual Run for the Zoo on May 4 hit some impressive new highs this year, making it the most successful "Run" event ever. According to Judi Civerolo, NMBPS specialevents director, there were a total of 8,145 participants, over 1,000 more than last year, and fundraising topped a record amountof $150,000.

"All of this money will gotowards building the new penguin exhibit," she said. "The incredible success of thisevent has brought us closer to our goal so much more quickly than we originallyanticipated."

With a smooth, new course overlooking Tingley Beach, many racers also quickly reached their finish-line goals. Karim ElMacHoor won the overall 10k with a time of 30:38 and Maria Portilla won the women’s division with a time of 36:08.

"We're really grateful to our sponsors who helped us get the word out this year, and also to the community, the Run for the Zoo committee and the volunteers whose enthusiasm and dedication continue to grow," she said. "This success of this most beloved event simply would not be possible without all of their ongoing support." 

Volunteering

We need hundreds of volunteers to help us on Race Day, as well as before the event. If you able to give your time:

Run for the Zoo! and walk with us too!

Presbyterian - New Mexico BioPark Society

May 4, 2008 — Run for the Zoo and Walk with Us Too! is the largest road race in New Mexico for people of all ages and fitness levels including; a USATF-certified 10K run, an USATF-certified 5K run, a 5K fitness run/walk and 1-mile fun run/walk. There’s also the Altitude Challenge giving 10K runners (18 & older) the chance to win $10,000. All proceeds benefit the Rio Grande Zoo.

About Run For The Zoo

The Run for the Zoo is open to people of all ages and fitness levels. All registered runners and walkers receive an official Run for the Zoo t-shirt, post-race refreshments, free admission to the Zoo on Race Day, coupons and more. Since 1986, Run for the Zoo has contributed nearly $2 million to the zoo. All proceeds benefit the Rio Grande Zoo!

Contact

For additional information or questions about Run for the Zoo: Call 764-6280
or e-mail nmbpsevents@comcast.net

About the New Mexico BioPark Society

The purpose of the New Mexico BioPark Society, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is to promote the development of the Rio Grande Zoo, Rio Grande Botanic Garden, Albuquerque Aquarium and Tingley Beach, to further community interest in the BioPark and to help raise funds for education programs and the development and capital improvement of the BioPark.

Since 1969, the New Mexico Zoological Society, now the newly formed New Mexico BioPark Society, has contributed over $10 million to the Zoo. The NMBPS has purchased animals; equipment for the veterinary clinic and the education department; art to enhance the Zoo's exhibits; and has partially funded the renovation of many exhibits including the Tropical America, Africa, Cougar Canyon. Koala Creek, and Inukshuk Bay. The NMBPS is currently responsible for funding the BioVan, one of the Zoo's many school outreach programs.