Wild 5K

• Wild 5K:- Run 3.1 Miles

The race still winds through a beautiful wetland sanctuary. Over bridges and through fields, you will find yourself enjoying a variety of settings—cool, forested trails; bright, cricket-filled meadows; cattail-adorned pond edges; even a garden path. A few wild spectators may even be along the trail to cheer you on. Audubon’s well-maintained trails offer a unique racing atmosphere that will both challenge and inspire.

Of course, if running isn’t your forte, there are other ways to be a part of this exciting event. While we will certainly accept runners’ registrations up through 9:45am on race day, we are also currently looking for walkers, volunteers, and sponsors. We want to involve as many people as possible in Liberty’s success story. We had over 130 runners and walkers participate in this event when it was known as the “Run/Walk for Liberty” and we will need the help of more than 50 volunteers to make the race run smoothly on Saturday. No matter what you are most comfortable with, your help will make our revived Wild 5K successful! Audubon is even teaming up with Distinguished Young Women candidates to offer special, nature-themed events for children age 10 and under during the hours of the race.

A small race committee has been working hard since February to make sure that everyone involved has a memorable experience. Audubon staff has joined forces with local individuals including Jeff Rupp, David Hedberg, and Ellen Paquette to bring the event back this year. Rupp, owner of Sideline Sports in Jamestown, NY, has generously donated prizes for the overall finishers in the running category as well as copious amounts of time advertising and co-coordinating the event. Hedberg, also of Jamestown, was recently named co-recipient of the State Association’s Official of the Year award (Southwestern Chapter) and has kindly agreed to map the course and coordinate the finish line. Paquette, of Warren, PA, is a renowned local artist who serves on the Jamestown Audubon’s Board of Directors; she has also graciously contributed her time and creative expertise to the coordination process.

But it’s not too late to get involved! Liberty’s care costs approximately $7,500 per year, supporting us in our Wild 5K is a great way to help us offset that total and it will allow Liberty to continue to thrill the children (and adults) that visit her here regularly. Please consider investing in Liberty’s future with us this year as we bring back this unique race!

Let’s go Wild!