The 33rd Annual Don Osborne Memorial Run hosted by the Oakdale Lions Club.

Hey there, fellow runners and community enthusiasts! If you missed out on the action last weekend, let me take you through the thrills of the 33rd Annual Don Osborne Memorial Run hosted by the Oakdale Lions Club. Trust me, you’ll want to lace up your sneakers and mark your calendars for next year after reading this!

Set in the heart of our charming town, the event unfolded at Williams Meyers Park, right behind the much-loved Oakdale Library. The streets around G Street and South Second Avenue were bustling with excitement, as participants of all ages lined up, ready to tackle either the 5k run or the more leisurely 1-mile run/walk. And here’s the kicker – the event promised to go ahead come rain or shine, highlighting the resilience and spirit of our community!

Despite a slightly overcast sky that Saturday morning, the atmosphere was nothing short of electrifying. The local Lions Club, known for their commitment to community service, made sure everything was set for a flawless event. The course was well marked, lying on flat, paved city streets with superb traffic control ensuring safety for every jogger, walker, and sprinter.

Now, let’s talk about the perks! Every participant was greeted at the finish line with light snacks, fruit, juice, and water. The refreshments were a godsend, especially for those who pushed their limits on the course. The smiles and high-fives exchanged over bananas and granola bars really encapsulated the friendly, supportive vibe of the run.

The turnout was impressive—an eclectic mix of serious runners aiming to beat their personal best, families enjoying a healthy day out, and even a few local celebrities who jogged alongside enthusiastic fans. Kids darting around, parents with strollers, and some seasoned runners in their 70s and 80s proved that this event truly had something for everyone.

What made this year’s run particularly special was its dedication to Don Osborne, a figure whose memory continues to inspire and shape community events in Oakdale. The event wasn’t just about breaking a sweat; it was also about celebrating community spirit, remembrance, and the pursuit of health and happiness.

As the event wrapped up, the chatter was all about personal achievements and planning for next year. Whether it was someone’s first 5k or their fiftieth, the sense of accomplishment was palpable. For many, the Don Osborne Memorial Run is a not-to-be-missed annual tradition, a day to look forward to for reconnecting with neighbors, making new friends, and soaking in the vibrant community spirit.

So, if you’ve been thinking about joining in on a local event that combines fitness, fun, and community, the Don Osborne Memorial Run should definitely be on your radar for next year. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to enjoy a pleasant walk, this event promises a warm welcome and an invigorating start to the day.

I’m already looking forward to next year’s run. How about you? Let’s keep our sneakers ready and our spirits high - I hope to see many familiar and new faces at the starting line come 2026! Until then, keep running, keep smiling, and keep fostering the wonderful community spirit that makes events like these unforgettable.