Runners brave the cold at the 45th annual Samson Stomp and Romp

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Dedicated runners are sometimes willing to brave the single digit numbers, like we are having today. Sure enough, they were out on Sunday, Jan. 19, running through the Milwaukee County Zoo. 

It was the 45th annual Samson Stomp and Romp, a fundraiser for animal care at the zoo. There was a 5k competitive run, followed by a 2k fun run. One of the organizers tell us that as long as the course is safe to run, they won't cancel the race. CBS 58 asked if today's turn out surprised her.

"Not surprised. It's a longstanding Milwaukee community event. It's the only time people can run through the zoo and have this exclusive, y'know kind of private opportunity. So, everyone here was happy to be here. Everyone knows what the race is about," said Megan O'Shea with the zoo. 

O'Shea tells us there were no cold weather-related issues among the runners today. The event is named after Samson, a gorilla who was one of the zoo's most popular attractions for more than 30 years, through the 50s, 60s, and 70s.