The first ever ‘Run Wild’ event will take place at Monarto Safari Park seeing runners and wheelchair users take to the trails of the safari park, while Southern White Rhino, Spotted Hyena, giraffe and Chimpanzees watch on. All that’s missing are three enormous elephants but that could soon change…
The run will raise funds for Zoos SA’s plans to initially bring three Asian Elephants to Monarto Safari Park. Permai, Putra Mas and Burma from Perth and Auckland Zoos will hopefully move to the largest safari outside of Africa within 18 months once the $2.025 million required to move them to South Australia is raised.
Gold Commonwealth Marathon medalist, Olympic competitor and South Australian athlete Jessica Stenson said: “It’s time to lace up those running shoes and get out there on this unique course.
There’s a distance to suit all abilities from the family-friendly 3km and 10km to the elite 20km and 40km races. There’s also a virtual run for those who can’t make it to Monarto Safari Park.
“Getting fit can be fun. Train with friends, family and your running group and enjoy the running buzz,” says Jessica.
“So many people have told us they can’t wait for Asian Elephants to come to Monarto Safari Park,” said Zoos SA CE Elaine Bensted. “However, if you want to see elephants here and help us provide a home for the first three elephants we really need your help to fundraise.
I’ll be walking the 10km and I know many of our staffers, volunteers and corporate partners are setting up teams. Everyone’s getting stuck in – just like I knew the community would!
Zoos SA and Asahi Beverages have already signed up corporate teams with more expected to join in the next few days.
