12th Annual Chimpathon - Run/Walk 5K & 10K

Event Overview

There’s no race like it in the world!

Join us on Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the 12th Annual Chimpathon 5K &: 10K Run/Walk at Save the Chimps—an extraordinary, 150-acre sanctuary that is home to nearly 220 chimpanzees rescued from research laboratories, the entertainment industry, and the pet trade.

This is one of only three times each year our gates open to the public—and the only day you can experience the full 5K/10K loop around the sanctuary. Unlike our guided walking tours, Chimpathon offers sweeping views of all 12 lush island habitats as you run or walk the flat, chip-timed course, passing chimpanzee families foraging, playing, and enjoying life together.

Fundraising Initiative

AGAIN in 2027 — First 100 Chimp Champs: The first 100 participants to commit to raising $500 will become VIP Chimp Champs, leading the way toward our goal of $50,000 — enough to fund one full year of care for two of our beloved residents. With every mile, you help give the chimps a life of peace, comfort, and companionship.

No animals permitted as they may disturb the chimps.

Packet Pickup

• Date & Time: Wednesday, 2/17, 3 pm- 7 pm
• Location: Walking Tree Brewery, 3209 Dodger Rd, Vero Beach, FL 32960

• Date & Time: Thursday, 2/18, from 12 pm-4 pm
• Location: Orange Theory Fitness, 884 SW St. Lucie W Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986

Race Day: 7 am. Due to time constraints on race day, we recommend picking up your packet in advance at the above locations. If you are unable to, race-day packet pickup will be available onsite from 7:00 am to 7:45 am.

Race Amenities

VIP Participants – First 100 Chimp Champ Registrants: Exclusive perks when you commit to raising $500 for the chimps:

• Free race registration: skip the entry fee and start fundraising right away.
• Limited-edition Chimpathon magnet: available only to fundraisers.
• Exclusive VIP “Chimp Champ” t-shirt: stand out on race day.
• VIP meet-up/photo opportunity: on race day with fellow Chimp Champs and sanctuary leadership.

The Impact:

• $500 provides nutritious meals, veterinary care, and enrichment activities for our residents.
• $50,000 overall from 100 Chimp Champs covers one year of care for two chimpanzees.
• Meeting your goal is easier than you think:
• 10 friends and family donating $50 or 20 friends and family donating $25.

All Participants Receive:

• Finisher’s medal.
• Chimpathon performance t-shirt.
• Overall and age-group awards.
• Post-race food &: refreshments.
• Professionally chip-timed course.
• The satisfaction of knowing that your run helps provide lifelong care to rescued chimpanzees.

Fundraising Impact

Save the Chimps is the world’s largest privately funded chimpanzee sanctuary, providing dignified, lifelong care to chimpanzees retired from research laboratories, the entertainment industry, and the pet trade. Today, they live in large family groups on beautiful island habitats, with the freedom, companionship, and expert care they deserve to truly thrive.

100% of donations raised through Chimpathon go directly toward their care—helping ensure every chimp can live out their days in peace, comfort, and safety.

Awards Categories

• Top 3 Overall Male and Female.
• Top 3 Masters Male and Female (40+).
• Age Groups: 8 &: Under, 9-11, 12-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80+.

Parking

Volunteers will manage parking at the race site on race day. Please carefully follow their guidance and drive slowly within the gates of the sanctuary property.

There is only one entrance into the sanctuary. Please provide yourself with extra time before the race to park and walk to the starting area. For the safety of our participants, vehicles will not be able to enter the sanctuary after the race has started.

Location

Save the Chimps
16891 Carole Noon Lane
Fort Pierce, FL 34945

Please note that Save the Chimps is not open to the public.

For more information, visit the official race page.