BEFAST 5K

Join us for the B.E.F.A.S.T. 5K — Stroke Awareness Run Saturday, May 16, 2026 ·

Cherokee Nation Outpatient Health Center · Tahlequah, Oklahoma

In-Person 5k starts at 8:30 A.M.

In-Person 1k Fun Run starts at 8:00 A.M.

Race day registration and packet pick-up: 7 A.M. to 8:20 A.M.

Coupon code for WINGS members only: BEFAST26

Race Director Contact Information: Dillon Lemasters: dillon-lemasters@cherokee.org

Timing by: TATUR Racing

Medals to top 3 male/female standardize group in 5k

Shirts will be handed out after race completion while supplies last (Note: 5k virtual option will have shirt pick up at later date)

Submit results for virtual May 16 - May 23

Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke. Every minute without treatment means lost brain cells — which is why knowing the signs and acting fast can mean the difference between recovery and permanent disability.

B.E.F.A.S.T. is how we remember the warning signs of stroke:

B — Balance: sudden loss of balance, headache, or dizziness E — Eyes: blurred vision F — Face: one side of the face is drooping A — Arms: arm or leg weakness S — Speech: speech difficulty T — Time: time to call for an ambulance immediately

This May, in honor of Stroke Awareness Month, Cherokee Nation Public Health, Cherokee Nation Health Services, and Regional Brain Institute are bringing the community together for the B.E.F.A.S.T. 5K — a stroke awareness run open to runners, walkers, and supporters of all ages and abilities.

To our stroke survivors — we want you here. Your presence is powerful. Whether you walk the fun run, cheer from the sidelines, or simply show up, you are the reason this event exists. Look for our stroke survivors in red — and if you are one, we'd love for you to be in red right alongside us.

The day includes:

Free on-site health screenings — blood pressure checks, glucose screening, and more Diabetes and nutrition education Stroke education and awareness resources Cholesterol and hyperlipidemia information Smoking cessation support and resources

You don't have to run to participate — all screenings and educational resources are free and open to the public, no registration required.

Whether you're lacing up for the race or stopping by for a screening, your presence matters. Together, we can build a healthier, stroke-aware community — one step at a time.