07/13/2026
We had the pleasure of getting to meet with some pretty impressive people (and pupper) on Friday! Tony, Lindsay, Velvet and Diamond came in to share with us a little bit about The Ruff Ruck Challenge. Boy are we inspired!
Some may know that Ron was inspired to run in The Ruff Ruck Challenge last year and won FIRST PLACE while also setting a new record. Ron had always said the energy of the run was inspiring and uplifting and he would continue to a part of it in any way that he could. When he returned from the run absolutely giddy with his win; we heard snippets of the beginnings of The Ruff Ruck and what it stood for and just how big of a deal it is. We automatically knew if we had the opportunity, we have to share it and help in anyway that we could to support this AMAZING cause.
⭐️Starting this TUESDAY until The Ruff Ruck, Lakeside Cafe will be giving back 5% to the cause EVERY Tuesday!
The Ruff Ruck Challenge is back in Muskegon this October, and if you have ever thought about joining us, this is the year.
Whether you want to compete, walk with friends, or just be part of something that puts service dogs with veterans and first responders who need them, there is a place for you with us at Wonderland Distilling this year.
A few ways to get ready between now and October:
• Train on your own. Plenty of people prefer it, and it works.
• Join the Ruff Ruck Training Group (private group, find us by search). Company when you want it, accountability when you need it, and a place to ask questions if you are new to any of this. No ruck required, you can walk and ease into it at your own pace.
• Drop in on Rescue Ruck at Big Lake Humane Society when we start back up (soon). Walking shelter dogs on the nature trail the veterans built. Easiest yes you will make.
Three ways to participate on event day, pick the one that fits where you are:
• The Freedom Walk — your pace, your distance, your way. No experience required. Most first-timers start here, ruck or just walk.
• The Frontline Challenge — 4-person team event. Bring your crew, 100 lbs distributed amongst your team, must be lead by a veteran or first responder.
• The Challenge — 12 miles, 35 lbs, under 3 hours. Ruck and Vest divisions.
