Birmingham Chapter of AAZK Annual ZooRun

About the Race

The Birmingham Chapter of AAZK (American Association of Zoo Keepers) is proud to announce the return of our Zoo Run: Cardio for the Coast 3K Fun Run at the Birmingham Zoo! All proceeds will directly benefit the Alabama Coastal Foundation. This event is rain or shine. There will be no refunds offered due to weather. This race will take you on paved pathways around the zoo, through the parking lot, and on unpaved pathways. 

3K (7:00am)

All race participants will receive a custom race t-shirt, admission to the Birmingham Zoo on race day, and a chipped race bib. The custom race t-shirt or the race bib will allow you admission into the zoo. Awards will be granted to the fastest and slowest runners. Reminder that the admission is only for the active participant, so any individuals who wish to attend will need to purchase a separate spectator ticket. Zoo memberships are not valid for entry to this event as it is outside of zoo operating hours. Please note that no cash transactions will be available for any purchases. All registrations must be made through our website. 

Spectator Option

This option is for friends and family wanting to watch participants. Spectators will receive admission to the zoo only. Everyone joining the runner, including parents of runners, MUST purchase a spectator ticket to be allowed admission into the zoo. 

T-Shirts

To be guaranteed your preferred t-shirt size, all orders must be sent in by February 1st at NOON. Any late registrations will receive a t-shirt as part of the race packets, but sizes will be dependent upon availability. All t-shirts must be picked up in person at packet pick-up. You may choose to add on an additional t-shirt to your order.

Packet Pick-up Information

Packet pick-up will be in the parking lot of the Birmingham Zoo. There will be signs to direct you to the pick-up area. 
Thursday Feb 19th 12pm-1pm and 4pm-6pm
Friday Feb 20th 12pm-1pm and 4pm-6pm
Saturday Feb 21st 5:45am-6:45am
*Please be sure to bring your ID to pick-up! 

Registration

Registration ends February 21st at 6:45am. Strollers are allowed on the 3K race course, although please be advised that this race will include unpaved pathways, and take necessary precautions for the safety of the stroller passenger. Please purchase a separate spectator ticket for anyone riding in the stroller that is older than 2 years.

After the Race

When the race begins, spectators will be able to move to Henley Lawn, where the race will conclude. The after party will last until 10am, though you may begin fully enjoying your all-day zoo admission at 9am. The zoo's gift shop and restaurant will also open at normal hours (gift shop will open at 9:00am and Nourish 205 will likely open at 10:30am). As always, animals may not be on habitat on any given day based on animal needs, weather conditions, and more. 

Alabama Coastal Foundation
The Alabama Coastal Foundation (ACF) is based in Mobile and was founded in 1993 to improve and protect Alabama's coastal environment through cooperation, education, and participation. Please read more about their mission and incredible work here: Alabama Coastal Foundation's Website

Birmingham Chapter of AAZK
The American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) is a membership association for animal care professionals to exchange information and network with one another. The Birmingham Chapter of AAZK is our local chapter and we strive towards providing continuing education, raising awareness for conservation, and fostering an appreciation for the animal care profession, while assisting the Birmingham Zoo in its mission. We focus on providing resources, support, and comradery for our members. AAZK Is a nonprofit (U.S. 501c3) volunteer organization made up of professional zoo keepers and other interested persons dedicated to professional animal care and conservation. To learn more about AAZK visit Birmingham Chapter of AAZK. Follow us on Facebook (Birmingham Chapter of AAZK) and Instagram (@bhamaazk).