Being Parents:
One would assume that with our regular participation in sporting activities that well, we are super active and fit parents. Actually, with our hectic work schedules and parenting duties, nothing can be further than the truth. But heeding the call as parents does mean that we stretch ourselves to nurture our kids to be better than us and to develop healthier habits than us.

Buddy Runs!
For us, being sporty and active is one of our parenting goals, which is why we make the Safari Zoo Run an annual family event since our daughter was 4 years old. This year is extra special because her little brother is joining us as a ‘runner’ for the very first time, all 2.5 year old of him (last year, he was wheeled around in the baby pram). On the race day, we saw many other toddlers joining in the fun with their older siblings and parents. 

Relive the run with us here:

An Attachment to Nature:
Among the many family runs we’ve participated, we count the Safari Zoo run by far the most enjoyable. Not only does it encourage an active lifestyle, by running in the Singapore Zoo as a family, children form an attachment to nature and it provides parents great opportunities to share the conservation messages to our kids. We particularly enjoyed this year’s run as the weather was breezy and so many animals were up and about!  Since Buddy was running with us for the first time, we gave the daughter the go-ahead to run ahead while the 3 of us complete the race at a more leisurely pace, allowing Buddy more time to look at the animals along the race route.

Here are some common questions that may help parents to decide joining the Safari Zoo Run next year!

1. How is this run different from the other major running events?

Most of the other major running events are held in the city /CBD so apart from buildings and sky scrapers, there may not be other interesting sights for kids to see. The race routes of the Safari Zoo Run take us past animal enclosure and exhibits, making it a more fun and enjoyable option to run together.

2. Is it a competitive event?

There are both competitive and non-competitive races to suit your preferences:

Competitive Races:

10km Safari Zoo Challenge (Men’s & Women’s Open) – 16 yrs old & Above

2.5km Safari Zoo Kids Dash (Kids) – 6 to 12 yrs old

Non-Competitive Races:

5.5km Safari Zoo Family Run/ 2.5km Safari Zoo Family Dash (Adult) – 18 yrs old & Above

5.5km Safari Zoo Family Run/ 2.5km Safari Zoo Family Dash (Junior) – 13 to 17 yrs old

5.5km Safari Zoo Family Run/ 2.5km Safari Zoo Family Dash (Kids) – 4 to 12 yrs old

3. What is the youngest age to join?

The official age for a race participant is 4 years old. Children below 3 years old enter for free (without runner’s entitlements) in the non-competitive family categories. 

4. How can we run and see the animals at the same time? Isn’t it a bit rushed?

Every runner is entitled to free admission to Singapore Zoo worth $33 (on race day) and free admission to River Safari worth $30 (after 12.30pm on race day).  We found the cut-off timing more than sufficient for families (like us) who wish to slow their run to a brisk stroll to admire the animals. We visited the Dinosaur exhibits after the run as it was one of the Zoo’s newest attraction.

5. What other activities are there besides running?

There is a race village with various activities and contests. In addition, interactive educational booths are set up to reinforce messages of wildlife conservation.

6. Can we bring a stroller along?

Yes, if you have a child below 4 years old.

7. Is transport and parking an issue?

There are ample parking (with free valet service) in the multi-storey car-park outside the Zoo.  For those who prefer to take public transport, a free two-way Shuttle Bus service from the Zoo to Yishun MRT was provided.

8. Where do I get food in and around the vicinity?

F&B outlets in the Zoo and River Safari operate as usual on race day.

9. How should we prepare for the run?

A good pair of running shoes is essential.  Our default brand is Skechers, with a style, size and selection which would definitely fit any sporting occasion for every member of the family!  You should also consume a light breakfast, be well-hydrated and do some light warm-ups before the run. 

10. Are there any prizes for the run?

Every runner who crosses the finish line will receive a Safari Zoo Run 2017 Finisher’s Medal which makes a good keepsake for memory.

In a quick hands-up poll before the flag-off of our 2.5km non-competitive Family Run, majority of the participants are first-timers. We are heartened to see so many families are catching on to the Safari Zoo Run experience because really, it’s a run like no other.  The daughter has expressed interest to participate in the competitive category in 2018 so till next year, we’ll be back!

Watch highlights of the Safari Zoo Run 2017 with us here: