Polar Bear Run to support rescue team
Advertisement
Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 16/02/2016 (3682 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Runners, walkers and skaters are warming up to the idea of the first-ever Polar Bear Run, which will take place at Assiniboine Park on Sun., Feb. 28.
Hosted by the Assiniboine Park Conservancy, the family-friendly event features something for everybody, regardless of age or athletic ability.
The first option is a 10-kilometre race that starts near the Riley Family Duck Pond at 9:30 a.m., followed by two loops of a route through the park.
The second option is a five-kilometre run that starts near the duck pond at 9:35 a.m. for one loop of the route.
The final option is a 1.5-kilometre family walk or skate that starts at 9:45 a.m. near the duck pond.
Bearing in mind the polar bear theme, the walk route strolls through sections of the Journey to Churchill exhibit at the zoo. Dependent on weather and ice conditions, participants can also opt for a skate on the duck pond instead.
Marketing and communications manager Laura Curtis said the event is a fundraiser for the Polar Bear Rescue Team at the Assiniboine Park Zoo. Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship calls on this group of animal-care professionals — which includes veterinary staff, animal husbandry experts and conservation scientists — whenever polar bear cubs need to be rescued.
“This is really a great way for people to come out and enjoy the park in the winter and to also support the zoo and the rescue of polar bears,” Curtis says.
Participants can register online at here or by visiting the Running Room until Thurs., Feb. 25. In-person registrations will be accepted on the race day until 9 a.m.
Registration fees include a pancake breakfast after the race beginning at 10 a.m. in a special events tent called the Polar Bear Den located near the skating shelter. Participants will also receive a Polar Bear Rescue Team toque, a drawstring bag and a 50-per cent-off voucher for the zoo (valid from March 1 to April 30).
The inaugural run is scheduled for the day after International Polar Bear Day, and the plan is to continue hosting the event year after year.