MEDIA RELEASE

April 26, 2010
CONTACT:  Kara Bussabarger
kara.bussabarger@louisvilleky.gov

502-238-5331 (502-744-5639 Media Cell)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Take a run “Throo the Zoo”

Norton Audubon Hospital presents 17th annual 5K Run/Walk that takes participants past the animals 

The 17th annual Throo the Zoo 5K Run/Walk, presented by Norton Audubon Hospital, will be held on Saturday, May 8, 2010. Proceeds benefit the Louisville Zoo, which is dedicated to its mission of bettering the bond between people and our planet.

This is one of Louisville’s most unique road events, because the course does not go around the Zoo, but “throo” the Zoo—past the tigers, snow leopards and flamingos! Runners, walkers and animal lovers of all ages are encouraged to participate. Strollers are welcome, too! (However, no roller blades or pets are allowed.)  

“Norton Audubon and the Louisville Zoo are good neighbors and partners. Our lab and pharmacy help Zoo animals in need and the Zoo offers special walking hours for members of Norton Healthcare’s free Get Healthy Walking Club,” said Steve MacLauchlan, president and administrator, Norton Audubon Hospital. “We are pleased to encourage heart-healthy exercise by sponsoring this event.”

The race begins at 8 a.m. sharp on Trevilian Way directly in front of the Zoo and special registration is required. Registration forms can be completed online at http://www.louisvillezoo.org/events/throozoo.htm.

Calistoga Artisan Sandwiches at 4000 Dutchmans Lane will host a Pre-Race Party on Thursday, May 6, 2010, from 5 to 7 p.m. to allow race participants to pick up their race packets, plus it is the last chance to register in advance at the discounted $25 registration fee. This celebration will also allow visitors the opportunity to meet some of the Zoo’s very own animals.

Registration fees are:

Advance Registration – $25 – Register online at http://www.louisvillezoo.org/events/throozoo.htm until midnight on May 5, in person at Fleet Feet Sports (1500 Bardstown Rd.) by May 5, in person at Calistoga Artisan Sandwiches (4000 Dutchmans Lane) Pre-Race Party May 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. or mail completed registration (postmarked by May 5) to River City Races

Late Registration – $30 – Register in person at Fleet Feet Sports (1500 Bardstown Road) May 6-7 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Day of Race Registration – $35 - Register at the Zoo the day of the race from 7 to 7:45 a.m. in the bus parking lot.

The registration fee includes delicious, healthy post-race refreshments, door prizes and free Zoo admission for the day. Race participants will receive a special commemorative T-shirt that features a specially designed illustration of seals by Ralph Bergmann.

Door prizes will be drawn at the finish line area around 9:30 a.m., or when the last walkers have finished the course. Grand door prizes include a Norton Healthcare Hot Air Balloon ride and free lunch for a year (one lunch per month) compliments of Calistoga Artisan Sandwiches.

The 5K distance has intermediate hills (USATF-sanctioned) directly through the Louisville Zoo, with the start on Trevilian Way and the finish on Zoo grounds. 

No race packages will be mailed. Advance pickup of race numbers, T-shirts and instructions will be available during the Pre-Race Party at Calistoga Artisan Sandwiches (4000 Dutchmans Lane) on May 6 from 5 to 7 p.m., Fleet Feet Sports (1500 Bardstown Rd.) on May 7 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. or at the Zoo on race day, beginning at 7 a.m.

The coveted Ostrich Egg Award will be presented to the top male and female runners. Other awards include:

  • Top 4 males (second, third, fourth and fifth place)—not eligible for age groups

  • Top 4 females (second, third, fourth and fifth place)—not eligible for age groups

  • Top 3 males and top 3 females in age groups: 9 and under; 10-14; 15-19; 20-24; 25-29;30-34; 35-39; 40-44; 45-49; 50-54; 55-59; 60-64; 65-69; 70 and over

  • Top male and female Master and Grandmaster awards

Throo the Zoo is presented by Norton Audubon Hospital with additional support by Calistoga Artisan Sandwiches, Fleet Feet Sports, River City Races, Coca-Cola, The Vitamin Shoppe, CBS Outdoor, Whole Foods Market, Wolter Chiropractic, Brooks, Java Brewing Company, and Ralph Bergmann.

For more information on other Zoo events, visit http://www.louisvillezoo.org/events/.

 

ROAD CLOSURES: Trevilian Way from Ridgeway Avenue to Illinois Avenue, north to Russell Avenue and south to Sheridan Avenue will be closed at 7:45 a.m. for the race course until the last person enters the Zoo, around 10 a.m.   

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The Louisville Zoo, a non-profit organization and state zoo of Kentucky, 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 American Association of Museums (AAM) and by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

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Get up-to-date information about the Zoo’s upcoming Glacier Run exhibit by checking out our new Glacier Run blog. You can also show your love for the Louisville Zoo by becoming a fan on Facebook and Twitter.

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LOUISVILLE ZOO  *  1100 TREVILIAN WAY, LOUISVILLE KY  40213

BETTERING THE BOND BETWEEN PEOPLE AND OUR PLANET