Bear Creek Enjoyable Run preview

“Last year’s Bear Run had over 500 registrants as well as over 60 canine participants, which was the most participants ever registered. The run continues to grow each year and we hope to match or increase 2024’s registrant number this year,” mentioned Mary Jo Lewis, director of the Bear Creek Nature Center. 

BCNC hopes to lift about $13,000 this 12 months. Financial sponsors embrace Animal ER Care, Black Bear Diner, Fossil Craft Beer Company, House of Dogs, Mountain Equipment Recyclers, Revolution Rehab, The Colorado Springs School and The Pet Gal. 

Other Sponsors embrace Peaceful Warriors Yoga, which can lead the pre-run Bear Yoga class, and Ormao Dance Company, which can lead a dance session previous to the run. Aravaipa will present assist through the occasion. 

All new runners obtain a bear swimsuit to maintain and put on through the run. Returning runners can mud off their bear swimsuit from earlier occasions. Costume value is included with the charge for brand spanking new runners: $65 for adults or $45 for kids. Returning runners who’ve their bear fits can register for $25 per grownup or $20 per baby. Participants should put on the official bear onesie swimsuit supplied with registration.

Also, contestants will take part in a parade to point out off their costume and non-contestants will vote on their favourite through write-ins. Winners shall be introduced previous to the beginning of the race, and prizes may be picked up following the race. Categories are: Best Individual Costume, Best Group Costume and Best Canine Costume. 

“Participants are invited to embellish their bear costumes and participate in the pre-run costume contest,” Lewis mentioned. “Participants will be asked to register for the costume contest online before the run. Costume contest winners will be chosen by votes cast by other Bear Run participants.”

Sponsor Black Bear Diner provides espresso for runners earlier than the run, and different sponsors and companions hand out snacks at their cubicles. Following the run, contributors that go to Black Bear Diner on Garden of the Gods Road sporting their bear fits will obtain a reduction on their meals. 

“Another post-run option for runners is to visit sponsor Fossil Craft Beer Company. If they wear their bear suit, they will receive discounted pints of beer,” Lewis mentioned.

The fundraiser helps Friends of El Paso County Nature Centers, the 501c3 that helps El Paso County’s Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers. These funds allow the character facilities to hold out their mission of connecting individuals to their pure and cultural sources and galvanizing stewardship. 

“The nature centers accomplish this through offering a wealth of affordable programming to reach various ages and audiences in our community. A couple areas that will benefit from Bear Run funds are nature camp scholarships for youth and continuing to offer our Trailability program at no cost,” Lewis mentioned. “This program at Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers gives people who might not otherwise have the physical ability to access trails the chance to do so in a Terrain Hopper vehicle. This program is free for participants and events like the Bear Run help us continue to offer at no cost.”

Lewis mentioned the enjoyable run and stroll is a spirited neighborhood occasion that caters to all ages and talents. Dogs are also welcome. “This is a great way to stay active, tap into your silly side and raise funds for a great cause,” Lewis mentioned. To study extra, name 719-520-6388.