Dear Editor,

 

On behalf of the Reindeer Romp 5k organizing committee, I would like to thank everyone, runners and volunteers alike, who made our inaugural Romp a success. We had 66 runners participate in the event in spite of the chilly weather on Dec. 10.

As a seasoned runner, it was especially gratifying for me to see so many very young runners participate along with their families.

The local track coaches should pay attention to these runners, all with such great potential.

The money from the Reindeer Romp is being used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from area farmers.

Fresh produce is something most Christian Outreach Alliance Food Pantry clients cannot afford but is an important dietary supplement. Additionally, this helps our local economy when purchases are made from the farmers.

We want to thank the local businesses who supported us in our first Romp. BradMoore’s Southern Grill provided gift certificates for the “Most Christmassy Outfit.” Hibbett Sports, Papa John’s Pizza and Kids Foot Locker provided merchandise for a post race drawing. We also want to mention help we got from Screenco for the shirts, Automotive Excitement and Slones Office Products for promotional material and Selma Trophy for the winners’ medallions.

We are indebted to AmeriCorps for providing those helpful volunteers and to Tammy White who provided the artwork printed on the shirts. We cannot overlook the support we got from Elton Reece and the Selma Parks Department

The first Reindeer Romp 5K was a big success if for no other reason than it helped local farmers and businesses when times are tough.

But most importantly, it helps those most needy individuals and families living in our own community.

We are already looking forward to next year’s event — a bigger race with more runners and even greater community involvement.

 

Bill Potter

Selma