Though it may sound quite frank to say, every animal that passes through the Oklahoma National Stockyards will — eventually — become a contributor to putting beef on consumers’ tables; This is a simple fact of which we are quite proud.
But, today, beef is debated as a healthy source of protein. Such discussion has the potential to harm our complete protein’s reputation.
For example, according to the American Heart Association, “The American Heart Association recommends choosing healthy sources of proteins, mostly from plant sources.”
And while every consumer has the right to choose how they feed their family, those who make up the Oklahoma National Stockyards consider it a responsibility to connect consumers with both livestock and beef.
One way the stockyards is working to do this is by partnering with the Oklahoma City Running Club, the Landrunners.
Chuck Mikkelson, a member of the club, said the purpose of the group is, “To support health and fitness through recreational running. Fall training is based for the Tulsa Route 66 Marathon & Half Marathon. However, we have runners also training for numerous other fall races: Chicago, New York, Berlin, London, Cape Cod, Albuquerque, Wichita, Salina, and then we have some that just like to stay in shape and enjoy running with the group.”
This year, Stockyards City Main Street is set to host Stockyards Stampede on Oct. 15 at 10:00 a.m. Prior to the kick-off longhorn processional, the Oklahoma National Stockyards arch will serve a very different purpose than the start for our favorite longhorn friends. At 7:00 a.m., the arch will be the starting line for the Landrunners’ training run.
“Stockyards Stampede falls on our longest training run, which is 10 miles for those training for the half marathon and 20 miles for the marathoners. 80% of the group will run the 10-mile route, or less, so they all should be back in time for breakfast and the stampede,” Mikkelson said.
In an effort to connect the runners with beef, the Oklahoma National Stockyards partnered with Redgate Beef, a local beef operation in Northwest Oklahoma, to provide beef sticks at the starting line.
What better, and delicious, way for these athletes to refuel, and build and repair muscle than with a high-quality protein source like beef,” said Sheri Glazier, Oklahoma Beef Council nutrition consultant. “Beef sticks and jerky are such a great and nutritious way to conveniently add protein for those with an active lifestyle.”
