Edmontonians in gorilla gear raise money for the endangered animals

Hundreds of Edmontonians donned gorilla suits and hit the pavement Saturday, raising money and awareness for the endangered mountain gorilla. PHOTO: Robert Antoniuk.

Hundreds of Edmontonians donned gorilla suits and hit the pavement Saturday, raising money and awareness for the endangered mountain gorilla.

It was all a part of the third annual Edmonton Gorilla Run.

Organizers tell CTV News that 265 participants – dressed in gorilla suits – raised an estimated $13,000 for the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project and the Mountain Gorilla Conservation Fund – which helps orphaned mountain gorillas that live in the jungles of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

"Today was very successful," said run organizer Raemonde Bezenar.

"It's difficult to get your message out, but what a fun way (this was) by dressing up a bunch of people in gorilla suits to help a highly endangered species from extinction."

The race kicked off and ended in Victoria Park and participants went through a 5-kilometre loop around the river valley.

The first place male winner of Saturday's race was Dylan Wojcichowsky who completed the track in 25 minutes and five seconds.

The first place female winner was Cheryl Surtees with a time of 30 minutes and two seconds.

Organizers say the most senior gorilla participant was a 71-year-old man.

There were also gorilla costume themes including The Village People and Red Riding Hood.

The run is organized in partnership with the Canadian Friends of the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project.