The race was more than a race; it was a spectacular event with 1,300 runners and many sponsors. It took lots of organization from the Anniston Runners Club, especially Brooke Nelson, the race director, and the others supporting her. In addition to the volunteer members of the club, there were many other volunteers, including families of runners, residents of Anniston and Calhoun County, residents along the race course, the Anniston Fire Department and many other groups and organizations.
It was great to see the athletes of the Jacksonville High volleyball team and the Anniston High teams take time out from their Saturday mornings to support us. The Jacksonville volleyball team was at the first water station. Anniston High teams were stationed at the turn onto Woodstock Avenue, giving “high fives” and cheering on the runners. This really gave me the energy I needed for the final push up the hill and to the finish line.
Of course, there are lots of others who were there, and I don’t know their names, but I appreciate all they did to make the race a successful event. Best of all, we can see how much can be done by the people of Anniston and Calhoun County working together to make such a great success and a positive impression of the area.
I’m looking forward to many more great Woodstock 5K races.
Tom Griffin
Jacksonville
