The 16th annual Bailey's Doggie Dash took place on Saturday, October 17th. The Doggie Dash would not have been possible without all of the amazing participants that came out to support the parks, despite the brisk temperature. KCPF would also like to thank our Doggie Dash sponsors who made the day a success as well.
Our executive director, Kate Meyer, had a chance to talk with Kevin Sweeney, who created the 5k run/walk 16 years ago with his dog Bailey. Kevin started the Doggie Dash due to his enjoyment for running with his dog Bailey. At the time there were no opportunities for an owner/dog running event in the Grand Rapids area. After participating in a few Lansing area dog-run events Kevin decided to start one of his own.
When asked how Kevin became involved in KCPF, he explained that he believes in the Kent County Parks mission of building a park system that everyone can use and enjoy. His passion for parks and the outdoors led him to donate all of the proceeds from the run to KCPF.
“Creating the Doggie Dash was not only a way to create a fun-filled event for owners and their dogs, but was also a way for me to give back to the park system I enjoy so much", said Kevin.
Thanks to generous supporters like Kevin, as well as the 5k participants, sponsors, and volunteers, we are able to fulfill our mission statement of inspiring others to move by investing in the parks and trails of Kent County.
“Inspire. Move. Invest.”
Once again, congratulations to all of the participants and their pups that ran or walked last Saturday.
