Colchester Zoo's Stampede is set to roar back into action

The Colchester Zoo Stampede race will be taking over the zoo, in Maldon Road, and its surrounding roads on April 28. 

This 10k race offers participants not only a chance to compete on a unique course but also to contribute to a noble cause, supporting the charities Action for the Wild and Mid and North East Essex Mind.

Sights - A runner passing the elephant enclosure (Image: RunThrough)

Runners are invited to take part in a 1k dash through the zoo before venturing out into the surrounding closed roads and circling back to the finish line in the zoo. 

Participants will also receive free entry to Colchester Zoo on race day, valued at £28.50, allowing them to explore the wonders of wildlife and the zoo's incredible species.

Melissa Dench, business development manager at Colchester Zoo said: "We're delighted to be hosting Colchester Stampede 10k with RunThrough again.

"We're grateful for every participant that runs the stampede as part of each entry is donated to Colchester Zoo's charity, Action for the Wild, helping to support vital conservation work worldwide.

"Next year Colchester Zoo becomes a charity itself, therefore the Stampede will support Colchester Zoological Society and continue to aid vital conservation projects."

Speed - Fun-runners taking part in the stampede (Image: RunThrough)

The race is hosted by RunThrough, the UK's fastest-growing running events company. 

Matt Wood, co-founder of RunThrough, said: "We are so pleased to host this event at Colchester Zoo for the RunThrough community, supporting the incredible work of Action for the Wild and Mid and North East Essex Mind.

"This event offers runners a unique opportunity to race through one of the UK's top zoos, all while contributing to causes that are close to our hearts: the conservation of endangered species and their habitats and the mental health of local communities."

Stampede - Hundreds of runners making their way down a track (Image: RunThrough)

Mind is a mental health charity dedicated to enhancing well-being by promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and offering practical assistance to individuals facing mental health challenges.

Karen Mitchell, of Mind, said: “We are delighted to be headline charity partner once again for the Colchester Zoo Stampede.

“We’re calling upon fun runners to support their local Mind charity, not only to boost their wellbeing but also to help us raise vital funds for the mental health services we offer.”