Trophies and cash prizes are also on the table, and students, teachers and parents across the Dubbo region are being encouraged to register and support their local school.

“It is great to see young people and families being active and enjoying the outdoors together,” schools challenge coordinator Sarah Strahorn said.

“We have a great community here in Dubbo as well as a beautiful zoo and river.

“Why not be a part of the fun and enter an event?”

The 2016 Dubbo Stampede will run on 28 August and features the 5.5 kilometre Dingo Dash, ten kilometre Cheetah Chase, Zebra Zoom Half Marathon (21.1 kilometres) and Rhino Ramble Marathon (42.2 kilometres) events.

The shorter Dingo Dash is ideal for school groups and families, who can choose to walk or run around Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

“There are three categories in the School’s Challenge to account for schools in the region of different sizes,” Mrs Strahorn said.

“The idea is that each school tries to gather as many registrations as they can.

“The school with the most registrations in each category receives a trophy and $500 cheque.”

Parents and children will also have the chance to meet multiple Commonwealth and World Championship marathon gold medallist and patron of the Dubbo Stampede, Robert de Castella.

Robert is still passionate about distance running, especially ensuring young Indigenous people have opportunity to pursue this also.

Dubbo’s own elite athlete Jane Fardell is also supporting the Dubbo Stampede as ambassador.

Runners and walkers alike have until midnight on Friday, August 26 to register, but categories are filling fast.

Participants can still be eligible for early bird benefits if they register before midnight on Sunday, July 31.

Visit www.dubbostampede.com.au to register.

Entry in the Dubbo Stampede includes free entry to Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

The Daily Liberal is a proud sponsor of the 2016 MAAS Group Dubbo Stampede.