The Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals is a running event held in Wheaton, Illinois on June 6, 2026, offering both a 1-mile and a 6.2-mile option. The race takes place at Memorial Park with an early morning start at 7:30 AM. Entry fees range from $20 to $50 depending on registration choices. This event benefits the Cosley Zoo, making it a good option for runners looking to support a local organization while getting a race-day workout. The 6.2-mile distance suits half-marathon training blocks, while the 1-mile option works well for shorter training cycles or as a warm-up effort. Both distances start and finish at the same venue, simplifying logistics for groups with mixed abilities or training phases.
From the Race Organizer
The Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 5K/10K & Kids 1/2 Mile is hosted by the Cosley Foundation to support Cosley Zoo's exhibit development projects, public programs and conservation projects. Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026 Time: 7:30A Distance: 5K, 10K & Kids 1/2 Mile Location: Downtown Wheaton 5K Race Registration: $35 early-bird pricing through 4/29, $40 beginning 4/30 through 6/5, and $45 on race day (6/6) 10K Race Registration: $40 early-bird pricing through 4/29, $45 beginning 4/30 through 6/5 and $50 on race day (6/6) Kids 1/2 Mile Race Registration: $20 (ages 4-10) through 6/5, $25 on race day (6/6) If you register for the 10K, you can opt to switch your registration to the 5K by emailing jackerman@wheatonparks.org . No refunds will be issued to switch from the 10K to the 5K. If you register for the 5K and opt to switch your registration to a 10K, you will be charged an additional $5 fee. Please note that if you sign up for the virtual race, you are opting not to participate in person on June 6. FEATURED IN 2026 Course Record Award: Are you motivated to beat the Cosley Run for the Animals course records? Beat one of the course records below for your chance to win a free race registration for the 2027 event, a Dick Pond gift card, and bragging rights! Data was pulled from 1998 - present. 5K Male | 15:08 (2010) 5K Female | 17:42 (2025) 10K Male | 30:15 (2015) 10K Female | 37:10 (2005) Sub 7:00min/mi Corral: If you anticipate running a pace of 7:00min/mi or less, there will be a designated corral to ensure the race begins safely. Runners who begin in this corral will have a yellow bib. Only runners with yellow bibs will be able to start in this area. VOLUNTEER INCENTIVE: Volunteer with us! All volunteers will get a t-shirt, breakfast, and a Cream of Wheaton drink voucher. Packet Pick-Up: - Thursday, June 4 | 10A-7P | Central Athletic Complex (500 S. Naperville Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187) - Saturday, June 6 | 6:30 - 7:15A | Memorial Park (225 Karlskoga Ave., Wheaton, IL 60187)
Hotels Near This Race
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Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 2026 2026 — Wheaton, IL
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for June 6.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Wheaton, IL.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 2026 2026 — Wheaton, IL?
Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 2026 2026 — Wheaton, IL takes place on June 6, 2026. The race is held in Wheaton, Illinois.
Where is Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 2026 2026 — Wheaton, IL held?
Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 2026 2026 — Wheaton, IL is held at Memorial Park in Wheaton, Illinois.
Where can I find hotels near Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 2026 2026 — Wheaton, IL?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Wheaton. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
