Built on 50 feddans near the west bank of the Nile by Khedive Ismail in 1891, Cairo's Giza zoo was once one of the biggest and most beautiful zoos in the world. In recent years, there was a public outcry due to the deterioration of many facets of the zoo, but statements from the Ministry of the Agriculture – which has always been in charge of managing the premises – stressed that renovations and restoration had already been launched to bring the zoo back to its former glory. An event this Friday will give the opportunity for sports lovers to witness the zoo in its current state. Cairo's TriFactory, one of the leading sports communities in Egypt, is collaborating with the private sector's M2Developments to launch the first of its School Series race in 2018. Students of any age can register in the event, dubbed ‘The Jungle Run,' and can choose one of three running courses; a 2.5K Family Run, a 5K race for student athletes aged 13-18, and a 5K race (general entry). Kneading their way through the vast area of the premises, the participants will have the opportunity to enjoy the enchanting ambience of the Giza zoo, and get a chance to win prestigious rewards. Every runner to cross the finish line will receive a medal and a certificate. Winners of each race will be presented with trophies, and for the grand prize, the fastest 5K student athlete will win a scholarship to Geneva Business School. The second fastest will win a summer scholarship to EU Business School. TriFactory was one of the earliest pioneers in encouraging Egyptians to adopt a healthier, more energetic lifestyle, introducing triathlons vigorously into Egyptian society. They specialise in endurance sports, triathlons, and mass participation events, providing training for athletes as well as facilitating sports travel and organising events in that field. To ensure a better environment for the animals and the visitors, the organisers are planning a clean-up of the zoo ahead of the event. The registration time on Friday is scheduled at 7am and the running courses will take off at 8am.
