Happy Elephant Sponsors Run Wild Races to Help Save the Endangered Pygmy Hippo
We’re thrilled to announce that Happy Elephant is once again, an official sponsor of the Run Wild Races event in Richmond, Virginia! This high-energy, family-friendly race is more than just a chance to get outside and have fun — it’s a movement with a mission. And this year, 100% of our net proceeds from the event will go toward protecting one of the planet’s most elusive and endangered animals: the pygmy hippo. One in particular has captured the spotlight: Poppy.
Meet Poppy — Tiny, Shiny, and Totally Irresistible
Poppy may be small, but she’s making a huge impact. As a rare and elusive species, pygmy hippos like Poppy face severe threats in the wild—including habitat loss and illegal hunting. With fewer than 2,000 pygmy hippos left in the wild, these shy and solitary creatures are quietly vanishing from their forest homes. But thanks to our charity partner, Run Wild Races, that’s starting to change.
100% of net proceeds from Run Wild Races go directly to pygmy hippo conservation efforts. Funds benefit Fauna & Flora, an organization using cutting-edge tech and community-led efforts to protect these shy creatures in Liberia’s dense forests.
What to Expect on Race Day
Whether you’re walking, running, or unleashing your inner ninja, Run Wild Races on Saturday, May 3rd is for everyone! The 1 Mile, 5K, and Wild Ninja courses wind through the zoo, offering close-up views of rhinos, cheetahs, zebras—and, of course, Poppy herself!
After the race, participants can explore the zoo for free, and their cheering squad gets 10% off zoo admission on race day. Happy Elephant Ambassadors will be there handing out free samples of our famous biodegradable laundry sheets and exclusive deals only available to race participants.
Why Happy Elephant Runs Wild
At Happy Elephant, our mission has always been rooted in protecting the planet’s most vulnerable ecosystems and species. Our readily biodegradable products are sustainably packaged to help keep waterways safe because we believe a happy planet supports a thriving world for all creatures, big and small.
From the rainforests of Borneo to the heart of Virginia, we’re proud to sponsor events that inspire action, spread joy, and spark change.
So grab your herd, lace up your sneakers, and come run wild for Poppy! Together, we can make a difference—one step at a time.🌍 Learn more about the pygmy hippo and our conservation efforts at happyelephant.com 🐾 Sign up for the race at runwildraces.com 💚 Support Fauna & Flora’s work in West Africa at fauna-flora.org #RunWildForHippos #HappyElephant #PygmyHippoProject #FaunaAndFlora #ConservationInAction #EndangeredSpeciesAwarenes
