Area relief ministries hosts 3rd annual 5K Color Run

JACKSON, Tenn. — The streets of downtown Jackson were lit with a variety of colors for the 3rd annual 5K Color Run.  Area Relief Ministries hosts the run every year, and organizers said more than 80 runners signed up. Each year folks come out in their most festive outfits.

Fred McKinnie said “the staff and the board we pulled together and made sure it happened it’s an exciting event for the community,” said Fred McKinnie, interim executive director.

Before runners took off they gathered together to create a color blast. Although there were people who participated in the past, there were also some newcomers who joined the fun.

“This our first time on the 5K I know I’m not going to win I’m gone keep up with this guy,” said Mark White, first time participant.

McKinnie said the donations and registration fees will have a huge impact on the organization.

“The proceeds are benefiting Area Relief Ministries and the various programs that we offer in the community, Room in the Inn, the Hub Club and emergency assistance.” McKinnie said.

Some community members said it is all about supporting the city.

“We love these events. We’re with Englewood Baptist Church. I’m a minister there and we do our best to support the city of Jackson and whatever they do,” White said.

Braden Riddle, came in at 20:45, and his friend Thomas Tilleros followed less than a minute later. Those two young boys were the first to get back.

First place winner, Braden Riddle said, “it was really fun.. it was worth it.”

“It was really hard.. kept thinking it was done and then we had another lap. There’s just a lot of hills and stuff, but it was fun overall,” said Runner up, Tilleros.

Organizers said two winners from each age group received medals.