More than 1,000 runners and walkers gathered at Mystic Aquarium on Sunday for the annual Run Walk for the Penguins, supporting conservation efforts for critically endangered African penguins.
The event featured a 5K run, a two-mile walk, a kids fun run and family activities, including music, food and penguin appearances.
“Our Penguin team is always excited to interact and answer questions and hopefully get people inspired to want to continue to protect them,” said Kim Hentz, strategic events manager at Mystic Aquarium.
But the penguins weren’t just part of the entertainment. They were the reason behind the event.
“African penguins, unfortunately, are critically endangered, meaning scientists estimate they have about ten years or less out there in the wild,” Hentz said. “So, yeah, so we’re just doing everything we can to support them.”
Organizers said participation exceeded their goal, marking the event’s largest turnout since before the pandemic.
Among those supporting the cause was Cassandra Phillips, owner of Automated Business Solutions, which sponsored the event and brought a team of participants.
Among those supporting the cause was Cassandra Phillips, owner of Automated Business Solutions, which sponsored the event and brought a team of participants.
Participants also had an opportunity to meet some of the aquarium’s African penguins before the race.
Everyone registered for the run or walk received free admission to Mystic Aquarium.
