By Marla Jones, Managing Editor • marla@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — The Rainsville Freedom Run celebrated their 11th year with 980 registered runners! Five countries and 15 states were represented. This was the largest for the Run.

The Freedom Run boasted an Olympic runner from Mexico, several other aspiring Olympians, and plenty of elite (paid) runners.

"This is a great event and I am amazed at the quality athletes we're bringing to Rainsville," said Race Coordinator Jerry Clifton. 

This year, there were over $10,000 in door prizes and $25,000 was donated to local charities. The charities that benefitted from the Run include: The Summit, Running for Uganda, Running for Joy, Kids Bolt, Turning Point Pregnancy Center, DeKalb County Adoption Center, Care Packages for Our Troops, Distinguished Young Women, and Feed My Starving Children.