AAZK Race Against Extinction

Please join the American Association of Zoo Keepers for the 5th Annual AAZK Race Against Extinction…Footprints for the Future!
• This is a challenging 4 mile trail run at Hitchcock Nature Center that not only celebrates Earth Day but helps save animals from extinction! 2015 has been deemed the year of the Gibbon and 100% of this year’s race proceeds will fund a Gibbon Conservation project!
• Not a Runner? Then join us for a 1-mile, 2-mile or stroller friendly nature hike
• Post-race food and beverages provided
• Awards for top 3 male & female finishers overall and in 10 year age increments

What is the Year of the Gibbon (YOTG)?

The Year of the Gibbon (YOTG) is an initiative focusing awareness on gibbon conservation efforts. The Year of the Gibbon will be the year to sing it out loud: save the gibbon! The YOTG sends a clear political message from the international community to combat the illegal trade and ongoing habitat destruction threatening the survival of the gibbons. We hope that this initiative will serve as a catalyst for high-level political support and commitment to protecting the gibbons in the wild across all range states.

The plight of the gibbons is so often overshadowed by their larger ape cousins. Considered the most threatened primate family, their situation is no less dire and regrettably, a gibbon will likely be the first ape extinction our generation will witness. With so many conservationists committed to the preservation of this charismatic and ecologically important species it is time to create global awareness around the issues impacting gibbon survival and garner support for gibbon protection, rescue, rehabilitation and translocation efforts. By supporting the 2015 Race Against Extinction, you will be supporting conservation of this amazing species.