Zoomars Beats Top Attractions With Retail Excellence Award

The petting zoo that boasts over 100 guinea pigs now has another feather in their cap with their IAAPA’s “Brass Ring Award” for 2018.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA — Residents of San Juan Capistrano love Zoomars Petting Zoo, with its lovable characters, like the adorable Gillie Guinea Pig.

Recently, the plush stuffed animal who has branded the park and taught bravery through his storybook received national recognition.

On a whim, Zoomars owners entered an international theme park contest. In November, they were thrilled to learn they won an award in the Games and Retail Excellence category for the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions’s “Brass Ring Awards.”

In November, Zoomars was recognized, along with prominent locations such as Sea World, Disney World, and Great Wolf Lodge, for "a spectacular achievement."

The sweet beloved Gillie Guinea Pig won over finalists from Hong Kong Disneyland (Cookie the Dog), and Sea World Gold Coast Australia (Slyder the Sea Lion).

Owner Carolyn Franks told the Capistrano Dispatch that she "wanted to create a lovable character who could teach children about overcoming fear, including respect for their animal friends at the zoo."

Gillie is accompanied by the book, "The Tale of Gillie Guinea Pig," an illustrated tale of a Guinea Pig on an adventure to overcome fear, as well as an iTunes album with songs produced by bands across San Juan Capistrano.

The award symbolizes the tradition of amusements, where the "brass ring"is an earned prize for achievements in excellence.

Zoomars is located at 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano or call: 949-831-6550

For more information, visit: www.Zoomars.com

Photo: Shutterstock