Photos courtesy of Redbud Classic
Oklahoma City’s premier running and cycling event, the Redbud Classic, will return on April 15–16, and your
favorite canine companion is welcome once again in the one-mile Woof Walk.
Celebrating its 40th year, the Redbud Classic has brought fun, fitness, and philanthropy to the Oklahoma City community since 1983. This year’s event will benefit Wings Special Needs Community. Dogs will have the opportunity to strut their stuff at the Redbud Classic — wagging tails and all — at 12:30 p.m. April 15, starting and ending at Nichols Hills Plaza.
“Dogs bring so much joy to our families and community, and we’re excited to bring the Woof Walk back for another year, especially since we had such a great turnout in 2022,” says Kristin Hersom, Redbud Classic
race director. “This event is fun for the dogs and their humans, and we look forward to seeing all your four-legged tail waggers again this year.”
Before the Woof Walk, eventgoers can participate in the 10-mile and 30-mile bike tours, 50-mile fondo, and one-mile Kids’ Fun Run. Events for April 16 will include 5K and 10K timed running events, a two-mile walk, a two-mile Baby Stroller Derby, and a 5K wheelchair and pushchair event.
New in 2023, the Redbud Classic is “Rerouting the Redbud.” In this effort, not only are the April 15 racecourses changing, but the Redbud Classic is encouraging the way its participants, volunteers, and eventgoers think about giving back to their communities. Whether you’re trying to discover ways to get back out into your community to
celebrate life in good company, stay committed to your health and wellness goals, or lend a hand to your neighbors in need, you can reroute 2023 with the Redbud Classic.
The start and finish lines of the April 16 races will be at Nichols Hills Plaza — right next to the Redbud BASH.
Although dogs aren’t allowed on the racecourses on April 16, they are welcome to join the fun at the Redbud BASH — the official after-party of the Redbud Classic. Held at the finish area in Nichols Hills Plaza at 1:00 p.m. April 16, the BASH promises to be tasty and fun. A variety of Oklahoma’s premier food trucks, beverages from COOP Ale Works, free family-friendly games and activities, and live entertainment will amp up the celebration.
The Redbud Classic Aids Wings
Since 1983, the Redbud Classic has raised nearly $1 million for local nonprofits through its annual weekend tradition. Each year, the Redbud Foundation board of directors selects an Oklahoma City nonprofit organization with whom to partner and serve as the beneficiary of event proceeds. The beneficiary for the 40th anniversary year is Wings Special Needs Community.
Wings is a local nonprofit where adults with disabilities can feel safe and independent, develop productive job skills, and live healthy, satisfying, and enjoyable lives while serving their community. In their commitment to enhance the lives of its members, Wings has two programs, the Day Program and the Social Club. Members are taught health, culinary, art, and life skills and can further develop in a fun, safe, and social environment.
“We want to remind people that participating in the Redbud Classic isn’t just about having fun or meeting your wellness goals; it’s about coming together as a community to support our neighbors in need,” Hersom said. “We are thrilled to have Wings as our
race beneficiary this year and look forward to helping its members thrive.”
Doggy Rules, Regulations, and Registration
The Redbud Classic wants all dogs to have as much fun as human citizens, so there are a few rules for participating:
• Every dog requires a separate registration.
However, multiple humans can walk one
dog for one registration.
• Owners must pick up after their dogs and
dispose of bags in trash receptacles.
• Only spayed and neutered dogs are allowed to participate.
• Participating dogs should be accustomed
to crowds, other dogs, children, and noisy
environments.
• Dogs must be leashed at all times with no
retractable leashes allowed.
• Adult owners must sign a waiver for each
dog and for any minor family members
who join the family dog on the Woof
Walk.
Registration for dogs is $20 and comes with a bandanna for the dog and a medal for the human. Note: The registration price increases to $25 on April 1, so sign up soon to meet the early-bird deadline.
While you’re deciding which events work for you and your family, don’t forget to register your canine companion. If your furry friend desires more than a bandanna while strutting along the one-mile route, dress up your tail wagger in a costume!
For complete event details for humans and dogs, including dates, start times, course maps, and registration information, visit www.redbud.org.
