Young athletes and their pets can make a run for it at the IRONKIDS Fun Run and Doggie Dash on April 15

THE WOODLANDS, TX – Children’s Memorial Hermann at The Woodlands is the presenting sponsor of the 2023 IRONKIDS Texas Fun Run and Doggie Dash on the morning of Saturday, April 15, in The Woodlands.

The IRONKIDS Fun Run offers young athletes the opportunity to feel the excitement of competition, while enjoying the outdoors and promoting healthy living. Running clubs and individuals alike are welcome. Each athlete receives a “Goodie Bag” with a race bib, shirt, and the pride of calling themselves an IRONKID. When each race is complete, competitors earn a finisher medal. Children’s activities begin at 8:30 a.m. at Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Dr.

The races include the Diaper Dash – a 26.2-ft. race for independent crawlers under 2 years of age; the Toddler Dot Trot – an 80-ft. race for independent walkers aged 1 - 3; a half-mile race for ages 3 - 8; and a mile race for ages 5 - 17.

The race event includes a new race this year. The Doggie Dash will follow the children’s races, beginning at 11 a.m. During the Doggie Dash, each leashed, vaccinated dog and their handler have the option to compete in two courses: a half-mile and a mile, both for dogs aged 6 months and up.

Their “Doggie Bag” features a dog’s shirt, race bib, and bandana. When the dash is done, competitors will earn a finisher dog tag. Race officials ask that all dogs be socialized and comfortable with being around crowds and other dogs, big or small. This event is for fun and participants should distance themselves accordingly for safety during the dash.

The Northshore Park event site will feature a special village filled with fun and activities. Attendees can enjoy snow cones, arts and crafts, an obstacle course for kids, tour a pediatric transport ambulance, mingle with mascots, get their faces painted, meet area pediatricians, check out some pet vendors, and more. Parking is available across Lake Woodlands Drive in surface lots.

Register today for $25 per child (or dog), online at ironman.com/ironkids. A portion of the proceeds benefit Memorial Hermann Foundation and Operation Keep Pets Alive. Early “Goodie Bag” pickup takes place on April 13 and 14, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the YMCA for IRONKIDS and Doggie Dash (6145 Shadowbend Place, The Woodlands, TX 77381). For “Doggie Bag” pick up only, you can go to two area PetSmart locations: 19075 I-45, Shenandoah, and 6545 Grand Pkwy. in Spring. You may also get your “Goodie Bag” or “Doggie Bag” at the event on April 15 at Northshore Park, from 8:30 to 9:15 a.m. Questions can be directed to Nicole.Geller@ironman.com.