City of Hickory to host inaugural Ruff, Ruff, Run 5K and Festival

As part of its 5K series, the Hickory Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism Department will host the inaugural Ruff, Ruff, Run 5K and Festival this September.

The Ruff, Ruff, Run 5K race will begin at Winkler Park on Sunday, Sept. 29, at 1 p.m. 

This race is for dog lovers, as all participants will run with their dogs along a 3.1-mile loop consisting of both paved and wooded trails. 

All dogs must have proof of vaccinations and be leashed for the duration of the event.

Before and after the race, runners, dogs, and families can enjoy the Ruff, Ruff, Run Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The festival will have food trucks, music, dog vendors, and dog obedience demonstrations.  

Vendors will host dog yoga from 2:30-3 p.m. to close out the event. 

Registration for the Ruff, Ruff, Run is open online at runsignup.com/Race/NC/Hickory/RuffRuffRun until Sunday, Sept. 29, at 12:45 p.m. Registration fees begin at $15 and include a custom t-shirt. Prices increase to $20 on Sept. 16.

The Ruff, Ruff, Run 5K and Festival is sponsored by SynergyLabs, Complete Rehab and Sports Therapy, Metronet, Cooks Sports & Outfitters, and Mini Mall Storage.

Winkler Park is located at 2500 Clement Blvd. in Hickory.
 
For more information, contact Lance Riddile at 828-261-2254 or via email at lriddile@hickorync.gov.