OkcPets Magazine March 2023

Let the Dogs Out Redbud Classic Welcomes Dogs for Woof Walk Photos courtesy of Redbud Classic O klahoma 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 philan- thropy 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, espe- cially 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 “Re- routing 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 communi- ties. Whether you’re trying to discover ways to get back out into your community to celebrate life in good company, stay commit- ted 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. 36 OKC Pets • March / April 2023 Socializing is an important part of the Redbud ClassicWoof Walk for dogs and people.