‘Stampede’ at the Miller Park Zoo brings out more runners than pre-COVID 2020

Posted on March 8, 2021
Pratt said there was no after party or award ceremony like normal. Instead, winners will be recognized online. (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)

By Heart of Illinois ABC

BLOOMINGTON – The Miller Park Zoological Society held its 24th Miller Park Zoo Stampede Saturday. Development Director Paula Pratt said the turnout this year was greater than in 2020. The 2020 run came just before statewide COVID shutdowns.

The annual 5k run, 3k walk, and 1/4 mile kids fun run had a few changes due to COVID. This year they staggered the start times to create social distancing. They kept the finish line area clear and only allowed a certain capacity of runners at a time.

The money raised every year helps fund a special project.

“This years money is going towards an expansion of our Children’s zoo. we’re going to add a rare breed of pigs. Mule foot hogs are what they’re called. and we’re also going to build a birthday party pavilion in the children’s zoo area,” explained Pratt.

Pratt said there was no after party or award ceremony like normal. Instead, winners will be recognized online. She said it was nice to give people an opportunity to get outside and get active.

Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected].

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