Ocelot Run set for March 8 at Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville

Iggy, a 7-year-old male ocelot, is seen in this undated photo. (Courtesy: Gladys Porter Zoo)

Gladys Porter Zoo has announced the return of its annual Ocelot 5K Run.

The 5K and 1-mile fun run is scheduled for Saturday, March 8 at the Brownsville zoo. The 5K will begin at 7:30 a.m. and the 1-mile fun run will begin at 8:30 a.m., both kicking off in the zoo’s parking lot.

“The 5K route will take guests through some of the most popular areas around the Mitte Cultural District before leading them into the scenic Gladys Porter Zoo for the final stretch,” a news release read. “The 1-mile route will take guests through a fun and colorful run around the Zoo.”

According to the release, participants will receive a timing chip to record their running time with a link on the zoo’s website where they will be able to access their results, a certificate and photos.

Each participant will receive a medal at the finish line, but there will also be distinctive medals awarded to the top three runners from each age group and to the top three overall male and female runners.

Participation in the Ocelot Run is $35 for the 5K and $30 for the 1-mile fun run. The registration fee will cover a limited edition ocelot shirt, a race bib, a race medal and admission to the zoo.

“Runners of all ages are encouraged to participate in ocelot attire or costumes,” the release read. “Registration for the Ocelot Run is now open on the Zoo’s website with limited spots available. Participants are strongly encouraged to register before February 20th to guarantee the preferred shirt size.”

According to the release, the proceeds from the run will benefit the Friends of Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, which focuses on ocelot conservation.

Participants will be able to pick up their race packets on Friday, March 7 from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Meadows Room at the Gladys Porter Zoo.

Leeloo walks through her habitat Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 16, 2022, at Gladys Porter Zoo. (Denise Cathey/The Brownsville Herald)

There will also be an event held at the zoo for the general public on Sunday, March 9 for the annual Ocelot Conservation Day. The event will be hosted by the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge and Friends of Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge.

“Ocelot Conservation Day teaches about ocelots and the threats they face,” the release read. “There will be fun activities for kids, including games, ocelot crafts and raffles. Additionally, there will be a variety of informational tables, exhibits and presentations featuring ocelot conservation. The event will be from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and will be held throughout the Zoo grounds.”

More information about the Ocelot Run and ocelot conservation by visiting www.gpz.org.

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