If you live in DTLA you know there’s a pretty vibrant neighborhood in the proximity of Staples Center called South Park. California Hospital Medical Center sits right at the south end of this community at 1401 S. Grand Avenue. This past Sunday, April 13th, California Hospital Medical Center hosted their 2nd Annual Heart of the City 5K run/ walk. They obviously have some pull with the city because we were treated to the pleasure of strolling down the middle of the pristine, empty, quiet streets of this newer, more modern section of downtown. Whether it was the decorum of this chic neighborhood or the proximity of FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising) never have I seen so many well-dressed dogs out for a morning stroll!
The event started in front of California Hospital Medical Center at 8:00 a.m.
Parents pushing babies in strollers, lots of leisurely walkers and dogs galore! Here Coco has turned around to make sure I’m going to catch up!
Let’s just say I was more in it for the fun of it–but I did spend a little time on my wardrobe, too.
Now here’s some serious competition!
Love the matching shoes and wings!
Coco & Jay make their move to overtake the beflowered prancing poodle
The finish line in our sights!
Yes, there were medals for the winning runners–more on that for another post..but the biggest competition was about to go to the dogs…
Who would you pick?
It was a close competition but the pup in the red and white polka dot I Love Lucy dress (some called it a Minnie Mouse frock) took home the prize.
And there were those who just couldn’t believe that any self-respecting dogs would subject themselves to such humiliation. Thank goodness Matteo Pasquini from the famous Pasquini Espresso Company was there serving free cappuccinos and sufficiently distracting dog owners from thoughts of XXL velour doggie jogging suits.
Make a note on your calendar to check The Heart of the City 5K website next January to see when the 2015 event will take place. This year the fund-raising goal was $123,000 and so far $80,263 has been reached. There are 6 days left to donate. Click HERE if you’d like to support the work of this dedicated facility that does so much for the downtown L.A. community. More to come on this amazing place with heart after I get my tour in May!