Story By Marla Ballard

The Rainsville Freedom Run, also known as the “Best Small Race in America,” will hold its annual event on Saturday, June 7. The 17th year of the annual run kicks-off at the DeKalb County Schools Coliseum at 7 a.m.

 More than 1,000 participants from across the country and some from across the globe are expected in Rainsville this coming weekend.

 The Freedom Run includes both a 5K and a 10K. The event draws serious runners who use the opportunity to race, while others choose to walk to support the community event.

“We have many walkers who join us, especially in the 5K,” said Freedom Run Founder Jerry Clifton. “And people of all ages join as well.” 

 Clifton said the funds generated by the 2025 Freedom Run will remain in the community, helping local citizens and local charities. “The event helps charities that include: Marked for Life, Women’s Care Center, Bread of Life, The Father’s House, DeKalb County-AL Animal Adoption Center, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and Distinguished Young Women of Alabama,” said Clifton.

“We have reached $600,000 this year in donations. It just gets better every year.”

 The 10K Overall Prize: 1st place, $1,000; 2nd place, $800; 3rd place, $600; 4th place, $400; and 5th place, $200. The 5K Overall Prize: 1st place, $600; 2nd place, $400; 3rd place, $300; 4th place, $200; and 5th place, $100. Additionally, thousands of dollars of door prizes will be given awarded along with a $1,000 grand door prize.