ZSL Patron Scott Storey is going the extra mile to support our global projects to create a world where wildlife thrives.
The wildlife enthusiast will run a total of 567 miles – one for every species cared for at ZSL’s London and Whipsnade Zoos.
Scott said: “I’ve been coming to ZSL’s zoos since I was about five. I’ve always loved visiting the big cats and remember the opening of the ‘Web of Life’ [now known as Tiny Giants] building, which helped me overcome my fear of creepy crawlies. My love for London and Whipsnade Zoos grew as I grew.”
“Over the past 10 years, I've frequently travelled to London for conferences and always made time to visit London Zoo, so given my lifelong support for animal charities, my wife and I decided to go beyond just visiting or membership and instead became Patrons.”
“On a personal level, ZSL has shown me and my family true kindness during tough times, and the Zoos have been a haven for me, especially when I’ve struggled with my mental health. It made total sense for me to become a ZSL Patron and really cement my support for what they’re doing – not only caring for incredible species in their zoos, but also their vast work around the world.”
Scott’s running journey began after a routine blood test revealed he was pre-diabetic. Driven to improve his health, he began with local park runs and a Couch to 5K program until a friend encouraged him to start running through the local streets of Sheffield and the Peak District's trails. This personal health journey not only transformed Scott's life but also inspired him to use his new hobby to support ZSL.
Scott added: "I was visiting Whipsnade Zoo last year and having a moment of reflection at the tiger habitat when I decided I was at a point in my career where I had some free time and spare money to give back to nature and realised that I could use my new-found passion for running to support my long-term passion for wildlife.
Running 567 miles—one for each species at London and Whipsnade Zoos—seemed like a great target to set myself, and I'm hoping to get as much sponsorship as I can for doing so!"
Despite facing challenges, from blisters to runner’s fatigue, Scott is determined to reach his target: “I’m not a typical runner. I’m 6”4 and 19 and a half stone, so I’m not the fastest, but I am stubborn; I will keep going. When I’m out in the cold and rain, I just have to remember I’m doing it for a fantastic charity that has supported me during some of my lowest times while also protecting the natural world that supports us all.”
Amelia Scudamore, ZSL Senior Philanthropy Manager says, "Here at ZSL, we know that to create meaningful change, we need to ensure everyone understands why that change is needed, and we can do that through our Zoos. A lifelong love of wildlife is one of the greatest gifts we can give our zoo visitors, and seeing how Scott has been so inspired by childhood visits that he’s gone on to be a Patron who is running 537 miles to support our work is proof of that.
Hannah Eaton, ZSL’s Individual Fundraising Manager continued, “We’re so grateful for all the support of our fundraisers and Patrons like Scott, whose support helps us continue our vital work. We’ll be cheering him on!”
In July, Scott will take on his first marathon at the Rasselbock Marathon in Sherwood Pines and will also be taking part in the Manvers Dusk til’ Dawn 12-hour endurance event in Wath-upon-Dearne, where participants run as many 3.21 mile laps of the lake as possible.
Scott Storey, one of our amazing Patrons has pledged to run a mile for every species at its two zoos. Follow his journey and donate!