Residents of Johannesburg and the surrounding areas are invited to participate in the monthly Zoo Trot at the Joburg Zoo, hosted this Sunday, 9 October by Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ). Registration starts at 7am, with gates opening at 06:30am. The actual saunter takes off at 7:30am.
The entrance fee is R68 per person, and pensioners have free access. After the trot, visitors are welcome to spend the rest of the day at the zoo.
The Zoo Trot promises to be an exciting morning full of heart-racing activities. The event will begin with a morning aerobics session provided by the Directorate of Sports and Recreation, followed by face painting and a fantastic animal demonstration performed by the zoo’s marketing team. Following that will be a programme to officially relaunch the monthly Zoo Trot, which had been paused during the Covid-19 lockdown.
“The Zoo Trot takes place on the second Sunday of each month, offering Joburg residents and visitors a terrific opportunity to run or walk in a tranquil garden setting while viewing some of the most popular Zoo animals, including the Big Five, chimpanzees, and zebras,” says Jenny Moodley, JCPZ General Manager for Stakeholder and Public Relations.
Moodley says Sunday’s Zoo Trot is aligned with Senior Citizens’ Month and is an appeal to pensioners to visit the Joburg Zoo at no cost.
“The event is one for individuals, but mostly families, to come and participate and enjoy. Whether you want to take on and conquer your personal best in the 10km walk/run or just relax and take in what nature has to offer in the zoo with the 5km stroll, we cater to you,” she adds.
When the Covid-19 Pandemic hit South Africa, the Zoo Trot took a significant dip in trotters.
“It came to a complete halt; hence the success of the relaunch is so important to get the residents excited again and get them outdoors to enjoy the lovely spaces the City has to offer,” she enthuses.
Moodley encourages all Joburgers to attend the event.
“Make sure not to miss out on the Zoo Trot. The animals at the zoo are more than excited to see you. We hope to attract the running clubs, church groups, private and public sector companies, and more importantly, combine families and friends who once trotted together at our zoo.”
Written by Sascha-Lee Joseph
07/10/2022