ATASCADERO — On Your Mark, Get Set, GO! Everyone is invited to join the Running with Wildlife fundraiser. The Charles Paddock Zoo announced it is having a brand new, virtual event that will engage the community in a healthy and fun activity while supporting the Zoo’s ongoing wildlife conservation and education efforts all at the same time. Running with Wildlife is a way for families to stay active together while supporting the Zoo.

Community members are encouraged to register now and then join the race anytime between Aug. 22 through Aug. 28 to run or walk, bike or skateboard, indoors or outdoors — for a half marathon, 10K, 5K or 1 mile, your choice, done your way. Your participation is all that counts and you’ll have an entire week to complete the distance. 

All registrants will be entered into a drawing for the grand prize, Disneyland tickets. So, register yourself, the kids, the grandparents, and start exercising. All races are $10 per person, or you can choose to upgrade your registration to $20 to receive the official Running with Wildlife t-shirt! Register now at  https://charlespaddockzoo.org/events/details/running-with-wildlife/.

The Running with Wildlife virtual event is completely on the honor system. You are not required to prove your participation, but you are encouraged to upload photos of your family running, a video of your run, or a shot of your fitness watch, step counter, or anything else that shows how your distance. Join from any location and let us know where you’re participating from on our social media channels!

With a whole week to complete the event, participants are reminded to please adhere to the CDC recommended safe distancing guidelines; wear a facemask when in an indoor public space and outdoors when safe distancing isn’t possible; and avoid trails and walking paths during peak usage times. Business sponsorships are also available. If interested in sponsoring this event or to find out more, email fparotti@atascadero.org. 

The Charles Paddock Zoo is located at Atascadero Lake Park on Morro Road, one mile west of Highway 101. Over 200 animals call the Charles Paddock Zoo home, including red pandas, monkeys, meerkats, parrots, a Malayan Tiger, a variety of reptiles and more. For more information about the Zoo, visit www.charlespaddockzoo.org or call 805-461-5080.