FAQ’s

Where does the event take place?

5K runners start at the Zoo’s 10 Mile Road entrance, wind through the scenic streets of Huntington Woods and cross the finish line INSIDE the Zoo! Walkers follow a course past award-winning animal habitats as they stroll through Zoo grounds. 

What happens at the Post Race Party?

All participants, including Fun Walkers, will receive a finisher medal upon completion of their race. This unique collectible medal highlights a different animal each year! 

Additional age group medals are awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each category for the 5K (age categories are: 9 and under, 10-14, 15-18, 19-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+). In addition, plaques will be given to the overall top male and female finishers and top overall masters male and female (age 40+) for the 5K. 

Winners must pick up their awards by 11:30 a.m. on the day of the event during the Post Race Party. Awards will be located inside the medals tent, near Rackham Fountain. Medals will not be mailed. 

The Post Race Awards Ceremony will take place immediately following the conclusion of the Run/Walk. The celebration, sponsored by Kroger, will include entertainment, food, beverages, children’s activities and access to the Zoo’s 125 acres. 

Can we bring noise makers to the event?

Due to the proximity of animal habitats near the finish line, we ask that spectators do not bring in any noise makers (e.g., cow bells, whistles, air horns, etc.). Thank you in advance for your cooperation. 

What timing system is used for the event?

Newton Timing will be the official timers of Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo using the ChronoTrack Timing System. 5K participants will have electronic timing tags attached to their race bib. To receive an accurate time, please confirm your bib is clearly visible on the front of the torso, unaltered and unmodified (do not fold or wrinkle), pinned in all four corners and not covered by jackets, runner belts, water bottles, etc.

When will we receive the race results?

5K results will be available at the finish line and Post Race Party shortly after the event. Same-day results will also be available online. 

What is the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness?

Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo has been recognized by the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness as a quality physical activity event that significantly contributes to the health and well-being of Michigan residents. For more information about the Governor’s Council’s endorsement program, please visit the Michigan Fitness Website.   

Why is this year’s mascot a wildebeest? 

This year, Run Wild is celebrating the fastest animal at the Detroit Zoo — the wildebeest! These close cousins of the antelope can sprint up to 50 miles per hour, ranking them among the world’s fastest land mammals. Not only do wildebeest have speed on their side, but they also are masters of distance. Each year, more than 1.5 million wildebeest complete a 300-mile migration loop through Tanzania and Kenya. This annual journey is recognized as one of the seven wonders of the natural world.   

After you complete your Run Wild 5K or Fun Walk, join us for a day at the Detroit Zoo to meet resident wildebeest Jeffery and Lenny and learn more about what makes them the perfect race mascots. 

What is Dinosauria?

All race participants will receive free admission to Dinosauria, a temporary exhibit inside the Zoo. Along an immersive, walk-through trail, you will encounter life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, explore hands-on activities and experience a blockbuster attraction like no other. Race participants must show their race bibs for Dinosauria entry.