Mark your calendar: the Ruff Ruck Challenge, a fundraiser supporting service dogs for veterans, returns to Lakeside on October 10, 2026. Registration and home base for the day will once again be at Wonderland Distilling, with check-in starting at 11 a.m.
Participants have two ways to take part. Choose the fun run for a $35 entry fee, or step up to the competitive Ruff Ruck — a 12-mile trek in under 3 hours while carrying a 30-pound ruck. Most who take on the full challenge should expect it to take 3-4 hours with the added weight. Either way, it’s a chance to push your own limits while directly supporting veterans who need trained service dogs.Once you’re back at Wonderland, the event turns into a celebration — a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, and the distillery’s handcrafted cocktails, all part of the day’s festivities.
The event traces back to Tony Laskowicz, who first laced up to raise money for a dog in need of medical care. Since then, through his business ventures and other fundraising efforts, Tony has built real momentum for thecause in the community. Teaming up Ron Estlick, from Lakeside Cafe this year the initial run by one…now has a goal of making $100K. BOOM! It’s amazing to wee more and more of these events hitting 6 figures for their purpose. Training a service dog isn’t cheap — estimates runanywhere from $17,000 to $40,000, and that’s before factoring in ongoing veterinary care, food, and shelter. For many veterans, that cost is simply out of reach. That’s the gap Tony, Ron, and their team are working to close. The Ruff Rock is a 501c3 Non Profit.
If you’re a runner, a walker, or just someone who wants to be part of something meaningful, don’t wait until the last minute — register now for Ruff Ruck Challenge at Wonderland Distilling and join the community in Lakeside on October 10th. You can click on the image below to learn more!
