Redbud Classic Returns To Oklahoma City With Races For All, Philanthropic Cause

The annual Redbud Classic came back to Nichols Hills Plaza this weekend in usual fashion with races for all ability levels and a worthy cause to support.

Redbud Classic's motto is "Fun, fitness, and philanthropy," and it attracts runners from across the city and beyond.

“Yeah I think that’s what it’s all about,” says Brian Birchell, a participant in the 10K run. “Fun and fitness are great reasons to run but when you get a bigger why behind the race it really helps.”

This year, the philanthropy is Wings Special Needs community.

“We were just so excited to partner with the Redbud Classic to help bring more hope to families with the proceeds coming to us,“ said Cheri Weaver, Wings Special Needs Community Executive Director.

“Wings has a special place in, I feel, like everybody's hearts,” says Kristin Hersom, the Redbud Classic Race Director.

And it provides essential services to those in OKC’s special needs community.

“Wings means community," says Weaver. "It means a social life, it means vocational opportunities.”

“We want to shed some light on the fact that this organization gives peace of mind to families with special needs individuals," says Hersom.

She added that it's a cause that matters to the entire Redbud Classic team, and it inspires runners like Brian.

“It's always just nice to help people who need the help," says Birchell. "It's not so much about that organization versus any other for me but it's just about doing what i can do to help others.”

Hersom also says it’s a friendly reminder to all who participate.

“It really shows the importance of being active," she says. "Doing something every day to get out and be active in the community.”

For the main event, Birchell and his fellow runners took off on a 10K race, followed by a 5K and a 2 mile walk. All proceeds from the weekend will benefit Wings Special Needs Community.