As everyone knows, every May, Bristow holds its annual Wildflower 5K Run. This year will mark the 37th annual run and will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Every year someone very deserving of having the run dedicated in their honor is chosen. This year Bob and Carol Webb have been chosen and are honored to have their faces on the 2025 Wildflower Run t-shirts. The Webbs are from Bristow, Bob being born in Newby and Carolyn in Bristow. They have been married for 67 years, but have been together for 70. Bob is 86 years young and Carolyn 85. The Webbs are possibly the oldest and most devoted competitors, having participated in every run held.The Webbs say the are honored to have been recognized as the runners on the 2025 tshirts.
It all started 37 years ago after reading an article from Dr. Chip Cooper in the Bristow Newspaper announcing the beginning of Bristow's Annual Wildflower 5K Run. The Webb's three children, who are also runners, encouraged them to enroll. They say that is all the encouragement they needed.
Not only do the Webbs participate in Bristow's 5K run but have entered and enjoyed 5K's is Tulsa's Run For a Cure and the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot in Phoenix, Arizona, with all their family members running toegther. The Webbs said, “None of the 5K runs compare to Bristow's Wildflower Run.”They said Chip Cooper, along with wonderful friends and committees have made Bristow's Wildflower Run the very best. They spoke of Cooper's desire to make Bristow and the surrounding areas the healthiest places to live.
People come from out of state and all around to participate in this run. The 5K run starts in the center of Bristow
See Honoree, Page Three and continues around Bristow's beautiful Lake Massena and city park area. Colorful wildflowers have been planted along the run area and Carolyn said, “The flowers are breathtaking along the trail.” Volunteers and friends greet you all through the length of the race giving the runners inspiration and encouragement. Half way through the race volunteers hand you paper cups of water to aid and inspire the runners on. The encouragers hand off the water as the runners are running so they don't have to stop. The runners are able to drink, toss the cup behind them and the volunteers pick them up. The Webbs say it is so exciting to cross the finish line, checking their time and having the crowds welcoming and cheering their completion.
Together they have won over 40 medal's and have a large collection of t-shirts. Carolyn said, “The first time I entered the race, I was strolling along with a young mother pushing her child in a carriage. It started lightning so Dr. Cooper picked us up on the far side of the lake trail as we were the last ones in the race. And there is no shame in being last. We did it.” Carolyn said, “ You don't have to be in top shape or a distance runner to compete. Bristow's Wildflower Run is an experience you will never forget.”
Chip Cooper, his remarkable team,the merchants and individuals donate their time and money each year so the race can be the very best and a day of enjoyment for all those who attend. The Webbs recommend everyone give the race a try, you can walk, run, or jog, but it is guaranteed to be that experience you never forget. Mark your calendar for May 10. You can register at Runsignup. com or on the morning of the race. The Fun Run/Walk