Hoards of runners turned out on Discovery Day for the Yukon Wildlife Preserve’s annual Run Wild Fundraiser.

Youth set the bar high with Nathyn Sutton finishing the five-kilometre course in 24:25 to win the youth male 12-years and overall category. Second place went to Noal Bradford in 26:11 (male seven-years) as Tyler Bradford was third in 26:26 (adult). Roisin Lyder was the first female across the line in 27:21.

The fifth annual Run Wild raised $1,400 for animal rehabilitation.

With the exception of 2014, this year had the highest participation at 83 and raised the most funds.

In 2014, the infamous red fox won the hearts and wallets of Yukoners as more than 120 turned out to run, walk or bike the course. That year, the event was centred around the male fox with the more than $2,000 raised going to support it.

This year, ahead of the race, the preserve released three red squirrels that had been orphaned and were ready to go back to the wild after being cared for.

The unique fun run showcases many of the animals in the care of the preserve.

Racers start by the bison, running past mule deer, moose, muskox and thinhorn sheep.

Then the course takes a turn for the steep as racers pass many “cute distractions,” said Lindsay Caskenette, manager of visitor services, including various kinds of foxes and one year, bears.

The race winds behind the moose enclosure and back to the start.

The funds raised go towards the rehabilitation and care of the animals that come through the preserve’s doors. They use x-rays to diagnose injuries quickly on-site and have a laser to aid with recovery.

Each animal receives unique care.

“Sometimes they don’t require much,” said Caskenette. “Sometimes it’s a little more complicated.”

Every little bit of fundraising and participation at the race helps.

Compared to the 36 who came out last year, Caskenette was very happy with the 83 who participated this year.

Especially, with everything to do in the Yukon.

“A huge thanks for people to come out and spend their day with us,” she said.

“We’re happy people decide to spend a bit of time with us and all for a really good cause.”