TORONTO August 2nd 2015. CRS Community Leader Heather Gardner is a marathon runner, indoor cycling coach, yoga teacher, and triathlete. Inspired by her friend and mentor Kim Agostino, Heather first laced up her runners after a change in career put her momentarily behind a desk. Running highlights for Heather include racing her first marathon in NYC in 2010, racing her first 70.3 Ironman in Muskoka in 2014, and the Canada Running Series ZooRun, every year because it’s such a fun race! Heather is the founder of Tribe Fitness, a Toronto fitness community sweating for social good, and enjoys supporting runners, yogis, and cyclists of every level set and rock their fitness goals. Connect with Heather on Twitter, Instagram, and her blog.
5 Great Reasons to Sign-Up for the Oasis ZooRun 10k! By Heather Gardner.
The Canada Running Series Oasis ZooRun 10k was my gateway into the Toronto road racing scene. With just over 3,000 runners it’s offers a small but electric energy, perfect for those looking for their first race, or those prepped for a personal best. When asked to recommend a race to a new runner, or to a family looking to run together and have fun, the CRS Oasis ZooRun is it.
Here are my top 5 reasons why you should race the Oasis ZooRun 10k.
1. A Party Atmosphere.
Although the Oasis ZooRun is a smaller race than most of the CRS events in Toronto, the atmosphere at the Toronto Zoo is electric. Live music will motivate you along the winding course, and the spectators will cheer your loud on your way. In the few places where humans aren’t permitted, you’re surrounded by the awesome sights and sounds of the wildlife, it’s the perfect running party.
2. It’s A Knock out Race for New Runners.
At Tribe we often use the Oasis Zoo Run as our “My First Race” Run Clinic goal race for our learn-to-run team. While the course does offer some small rolling hills, the zoo terrain is very accessible for new runners, with lots of excitement to push you through. This smaller race is well marked, with many volunteers, has multiple aid stations, and is the perfect place to win your first finishers medal. Check out our Tribe Fitness ZooRun Facebook Album to see what kind of fun we had last year!
3. Great for Groups.
With a spacious starting line and finishing area, the ZooRun is a great place to run with a group. Whether you choose to stick together or venture off searching out your personal bests, the winding course gives you plenty of opportunity to see your friends and get powered up by high fives.
4. Run Like an Animal!
While running among the animals, why not dress like one too? No doubt, you’ll see many runners dressed like cheetahs, tigers, and even flamingos, so why not join in the fun! Canada Running Series hosts an official costume contest (with prizes!) at 11:45am at the main stage in the post-race party site, so make sure you stick around to show off your wild side!
5. It’s at the Toronto Zoo!
Sure, this is an obvious one, but where else can you run alongside the wild life, catch a glimpse of the neon pink flamingos, see towering giraffes, and sprint past the elephants. Not only do you get to run here, but your race entry includes free admission and your spectators can join to watch you on route and for post-race fun for half price!
I hope you’ll join me on Saturday September 12th to run with the animals at the Oasis ZooRun 10k! This race is over 90% sold, so if you want to join in the fun, don’t delay! Register today at http://zoorun.ca .
