Bumpus Hounds
Although the Old Man is barking mad about this, be sure to join us for the 8th Annual A Christmas Story Run and get ready for the Running of the Hounds! This year we are celebrating in a very unique way and are proudly featuring our four-legged, canine friends at this year’s event!
That’s right, this year, we are allowing participants to bring their dogs to the event! All Bumpus Hounds receive an official "Show Mommy How the Piggies Eat" medal to wear on their collar this holiday season, a themed bandana, race bib, race bag and doggie treats! Registration also includes transportation for the 5K participants. (10K participants start and finish at the same location).
Cleveland Race: The “Runners with Canine Category” will be limited to 400 and the run starts at 9:00AM EST.
The run will have 4 starting “waves” in the following categories:
First WAVE at 9:00AM EST is for RUNNERS ONLY
Second WAVE at 9:10AM EST for RUNNERS and their CANINES ONLY
Third WAVE at 9:15AM EST for WALKERS
Fourth WAVE at 9:20AM EST for WALKERS with CANINES
There are Bumpus Hound "Relief" stations along the way! Starting Line: on the north side of Public Square on the grass sections. Mid Way: At the Lincoln Park (water station), grassy areas. Finish Line: Just beyond the finish line on Buhrer Street (signage signifies area).
* Note, Dogs are not allowed in the A Christmas Story House. Please make arrangements for Mrs. Parker to watch the dogs while you tour on race day, or come back during the holiday season!
Bumpus Hound FAQ
Q: What is a Bumpus Hound Run?
A: This is the second year for runners/walkers to participate with their dogs. Register your canine! They get some amazing treats including a “doggie participation medal,” bandana, official Bumpus Hound bib, dog treats and transportation.
Q: How do I register my dog?
A: When you go the website, after you register yourself, before check out, there is an option to also register your dog.
Q: I have more than one dog, can I register more than one dog?
A: This is a complicated answer. Cleveland Race: Registration in Cleveland is a 1 to 1 ratio. That means one dog per runner. If you have 2 dogs and you would like both of them to run, another runner will have to sign up and then sign up your second dog with them.
Q: What if I want to sign up for the Cleveland race, but I have a dog that cannot run/walk the distance, but I still want them to be a BUMPUS HOUND and get the goodies?
A: Sign yourself up for the Cleveland Race and during that process sign up your dog also by selecting the "Bumpus Hound Event Swag" option during your registration process. You will receive their supplies with yours when you pick up your race packet during race week!
Q: Can I register just my dogs and not run?
A: No, the dogs would need to run with their owner. We cannot have them running off and stealing the neighbor’s turkey on Christmas Day!
Q: If I am registered for the Cleveland Race and am unable to make the trip to Cleveland on race day, can I have my packet and my dog’s packets mailed to me?
A: If your plans change and you can't make the trip to Cleveland, participants have the option transfer their funds and apply them to the "A Christmas Story Bumpus Hound Run Experience!! This include the event swag for dogs which includes the official Bumpus Hound Medal your furry friend can wear on their collar this holiday season, Dog Bandana, Race Bag and Doggie Treats! Switch by November 10, 2019 for guaranteed delivery before the official event on December 5th, 2020
Q: I am thinking about ordering the extra Bumpus Hound shirt for my dog. What are the sizing ranges and how much are they?
A: The shirts are $15 each. They tend to run small. The sizing parameters are as follows: S (5-10lbs) M (11-23lbs) L (24-45lbs) and XL (46-70lbs) and 2X (71-85lbs) and 3x (86lbs and larger) ** for dogs that have a larger chest area, purchase one size up from weight range.
Q: Will there be assistance for my dog if for some reason he/she has a medical need before, during or after the race in Cleveland?
A: Yes! We will have Veterinarian Medical personnel available at the Starting area, designated water stops and the finish area at the A Christmas Story House just beyond the finish line. They will be at the first tent at each finish area and designated with the signature “Red Cross” sign. Services are provided by Gateway Animal Clinic.
Q: If my dog needs a clinic for medical attention, will there be an option?
A: Yes! Gateway Animal Clinic on West 19th street which is on the race route have committed to meeting your needs for emergency services on race day. Just tell them you are with the race and they will address your needs timely.
Q: Tell me more about my dog needing a muzzle or neck collar on the bus ride. I may not be comfortable with that.
A: The 5K is a point to point race (starting line and finish line are at different locations). That means participants and their dogs will be riding the busses back to the starting line in an enclosed space for a 20-minute ride. Our insurance company and bus company are only covered with these safety precautions in place. Thank you in advance for your understanding and safety of all participants.
Q: How will the busses work with participants with dogs and just participants?
A: After you finish with your Bumpus Hound, receive your Major Award and have your post-race refreshments, you can board the busses! Owners with dogs will be the last ones on the bus and the first ones off the bus. This ensures they have the shortest time on the bus and proper procedures are followed. :) Please ensure your dog is muzzled or it will not be allowed on the bus.
