Run or Walk for the Penguins at Mystic Aquarium

Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration to Host 5k Run or Walk (or Waddle!) to Benefit Penguin Research and Conservation MYSTIC, Conn. (September 30, 2009) – Lace up your sneakers and get ready to run or walk for the good of our feathered friends. Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration will hold a 5k run and two-mile walk at 9 a.m. on Saturday, October 17 to benefit our much-loved African penguins. For the first time ever, dogs are welcome to join their families in the two-mile walk. The event consists of a 5k run on a trail, field and road course, two-mile walk and ¼-mile kids' race. Prizes will be awarded in eight age divisions for males and females. Participants who raise $50 or more will receive a free commemorative race T-shirt. The top individual fundraiser will be awarded an original piece of art created by the penguins, and the runner-up will receive a free Penguin Encounter, during which he/she will interact face-to-face with a penguin. The top fundraising team (consisting of up to 10 runners and/or walkers) will receive a penguin Encounter Program and will be recognized on a plaque that will hang at the Aquarium. Visit mysticaquarium.org to register and get additional event details. If you are unable to participate but would like to make a donation, please e-mail development@mysticaquarium.org or call (860) 572-5955, ext. 160. WHAT:          3rd Annual Penguin 5k run or two-mile walk WHEN:          Saturday, October 17 at 9 a.m. WHERE:       Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration , 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355 WHY:            To benefit our penguin research and conservation efforts COST:           Individuals - $20 entry fee, $25 after October 9, Children ages 3 to 13 - $10., Families - $50, $60 after October 9, Middle school teams - $50 (up to 10 people), $5 for each additional team member All participants receive free admission to Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration on race day.