Over 1,200 participants run for a good cause
Big or small, young or old, ambitious or relaxed - over 1,200 Weltklasse Zürich Zoo Runners, including numerous company teams, were out and about at Zurich Zoo this evening. They ran together for a good cause, with lots of animal encounters, celebrity company and a strong signal in favour of nature conservation.
The starting signal was given shortly after 6 p.m. and led the first large group of runners onto the varied route. Among them: Olympic triathlon champion Nicola Spirig and marathon ace Tadesse Abraham, who were both inspired by the special atmosphere at Zurich Zoo.
The 2025 route led from the popular penguins near the zoo entrance past the camels and the zoo's premises up to the new Panthera big cat habitat. After a short detour to see lions, tigers and more, the route continued to the elephant park and the Lewa Savannah before a short climb brought the participants to the finish line - accompanied by lots of good humour and cheerful applause. And those who still hadn't had enough were able to take on the 2.4 kilometre route a few more times and go on another discovery tour through the closed zoo.
The autograph sessions with Swiss sporting greats Nicola Spirig and Tadesse Abraham were a particular highlight for young and old alike. The medical partner of the Weltklasse Zürich Zoo Run, Balgrist University Hospital, was also represented with a professional taping service and an in-depth running analysis.
Christoph Joho, Co-Meeting Director of Weltklasse Zürich, drew an all-round positive conclusion: «The Weltklasse Zürich Zoo Run 2025 was a complete success - a great experience for young and old. The atmosphere was fantastic, and it was wonderful to see how committed people are to a good cause. Many thanks to Zurich Zoo and our partners for the great cooperation!»
Severin Dressen, Director of Zurich Zoo, was also delighted with the successful event: «A great evening with lots of moving people - in both senses of the word. The proceeds from the Weltklasse Zürich Zoo Run 2025 will go to the Kaeng Krachan nature conservation project in Thailand, which is committed to protecting wild tigers and their habitat. A big thank you to all participants, helpers and supporters - it really was world class!»
The enthusiasm for Weltklasse Zürich projects continues and the next highlight is already on the horizon: Weltklasse Zürich will take place on 27/28 August 2025 at Sechseläutenplatz and Letzigrund Stadium. Public ticket sales for the final of the prestigious Wanda Diamond League series will start next Tuesday, 13 May 2025.
