Contact:  Kyle Shepherd
kyle.shepherd@louisvilleky.gov
(O) 502-238-5331 (C) 502-744-5639  

Registration for the Louisville Zoo’s 30th annual Throo the Zoo 5K Run/Walk is now open. The wildest 5K in town presented by Norton Audubon Hospital takes off at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at the Louisville Zoo. Race proceeds benefit the Louisville Zoo, which is dedicated to its mission of “bettering the bond between people and our planet.”

In celebration of the 30th anniversary, when a participant signs up for the race, they are automatically entered into our weekly prize drawing. Prizes have already included tickets to local visual and performing arts organizations, museums, restaurants and more.

“We are excited to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the wildest 5K in town!” said Louisville Zoo director Dan Maloney. “We could not do this without the support of our wonderful partners. Thank you to Norton Audubon Hospital for helping to bring this family fitness event to the community.”

One of Louisville’s most distinctive run/walk events, the course takes participants “throo” the Zoo.  Along the way, racers and walkers will be see animal ambassadors like bears, giraffes and sloths. The chip-timed course is open to runners and walkers at all fitness levels, including guests with strollers.

“Throo the Zoo is a great event that Norton Audubon Hospital is excited to be a part of each year,” said Randy Hamilton, chief administrative officer at Norton Audubon Hospital. “The Louisville Zoo offers exercise, education and entertainment for the whole family. We value the many great benefits it offers our community.”

Registration for this important Zoo fundraiser is $35 now through October 20 and can be completed online at louisvillezoo.org/throo. Register early before prices increase on October 21 to $40 and again on November 11 (through morning of the race) to $50.

Packet pickup will take place in the Zoo’s bus parking lot on Friday, November 10 from noon to 6 p.m.

A costume contest, sponsored by Swag’s Sports Shoes, is part of the festivities. Costumed race participants are invited to have their photo taken the morning of the race by Zoo staff at the photo station. The Zoo will share the photos on social media for voting starting on Tuesday, November 14.

Racers unable to attend the November 11 event, or who prefer to get their miles in at home, can register for the Zoo’s Throo the Zoo Virtual 5K race. The virtual race option allows guests an opportunity to complete the 5K distance on their own at a date, time and course of their choosing. Participants will be mailed a finisher medal and Zoo ticket for a future visit, allowing them to be part of the fun, no matter where they race. Pricing for the Virtual Throo the Zoo 5K begins at $30 with an increase on October 20.

Throo the Zoo is presented by Norton Audubon Hospital with additional support by Louisville Water Company, Outfront Media, Ntaba Coffee Haus, Pepsico, Service System Associates and Swag’s Sport Shoes.

ROAD CLOSURES: Illinois Ave. will be closed from Grenade Ave. to Trevilian from 7 to 8:45 a.m. and Illinois Ave. from Taylor Ave. to Grenade Ave. from 7:45 – 8:45 a.m.

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The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

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