Press Room

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 11, 2007, 2007

Cumberland, OH (April 11, 2007) – Cumberland, Ohio – Outdoor recreation enthusiasts are invited to gather once again to celebrate spring as the Wilds hosts EcoThon, a trail run and walking event, on Saturday, April 28 starting at 10 a.m. Runners choose from either a 5K or 10K course, the 5K route also being used by walkers. Both courses will take participants through beautiful rolling grasslands near the Wilds’ Butterfly Habitat. Take in views of lakes, wetlands and wooded areas as you wind through the scenic course.

Pre-registration is encouraged, although participants can register the morning of the event near the main parking lot at the Wilds. Information, directions and registration forms can be found at www.thewilds.org, or by calling 740-638-5030.

This year’s theme is “See Spot Run!” in recognition of the Wilds’ new Mid-Sized Carnivore Breeding and Research Center, which opens to the public June 1. This new 60-acre facility will be home to cheetahs, African wild dogs, and dholes (a canine from Asia), which are all globally-threatened species. Elevated walkways will enhance the visitor experience, providing excellent viewing areas of these animals in a natural habitat.

EcoThon entry fees help support a variety of conservation and education programs at the Wilds. All entrants will receive a complementary ticket to experience the Wilds’ Safari, offering views of African, Asian, and North American wildlife, as well as stops at various destinations including the new carnivore conservation center. Also included is a custom designed shirt, refreshments, door prizes, the opportunity to win unique awards and more.

Nearly 900 runners and walkers participated in last year’s event, and organizers expect even more this year. This event is made possible largely through sponsor contributions.

The presenting sponsor this year is American Electric Power. Other sponsors are: Ohio State Park Resorts, ESPN Radio/WMOA, Pepsi-Cola Bottling of Zanesville, WHIZ Media Group, Baldwin Construction Company, Southside Cycling, Great Harvest Bread Company, Wallace Fencing, Linn Engineering, Huntington Bank, Stauf’s Coffee Roasters, Clif Bar, Genesis Lifestyle & Fitness Center, and TS Architect.

The Wilds is one of the largest and most innovative wildlife conservation centers in the world, with a mission to advance conservation through science, education, and personal experience. Located on nearly 10,000 acres in southeast Ohio, the Wilds is home to more than 25 species of non-native wildlife from Africa, Asia and North America and hundreds of indigenous species. In addition to innovative, in-depth science and education programs, the Wilds offers guided experiences to the public on selected days May through October.

Further information is available by visiting the Wilds web site: www.thewilds.org or by calling 740-638-5030.