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Over 1,000 participants across the country competed in the annual Selma to Montgomery relay race on March 16.

Competitors met at Rexall Drug Company registered and prepared for the race. They either walked or rode on a bike through the 12-hour, 51-mile journey. The race began at the Edmund Pettus Bridge and ended at the State Capitol in Montgomery.

Mount Juliet, Tenn., resident Jamie Scott Jenkins said he always enjoys competing in the historic race, sponsored by the Civil Rights racing series. 

“Last year when I ran the Selma to Montgomery Relay, I left with two takeaways. The amazing feeling of running on hallowed grounds in homage to Civil Rights giants, and  Nashville can win it,” Jenkins said. “Fast forward one year, the same feeling resounded, and our team won and set a new course record. Mission accomplished.”

Amy Sykes, also from Mount Juliet, said the energy at this race is unmatched and was proud that Nashville had six groups represented.

New York photographer and worldwide runner Regina Fleming said she had a good time competing in the race. Fleming, a world-class runner she is honored to participate in the race. Fleming is a six-star finisher, an honor given to anyone who has finished six races worldwide. She runs with  “Team Sole Journey:”  Steven Forbes, Lenora Mariner,  Andrea Haritos,  Sharon Marine, Yolanda Jefferson. McKinley Mason is also part of the team.

Cibolo, Texas, resident Ricky Kyles said the Selma to Montgomery race has historic meaning.

“All races are most definitely not created equally,” Kyles said. “The historical context by itself is humbling. To stand on the very bridge where a significant event took place so people who look like me can have a chance at the American Dream must not go unnoticed or unappreciated.”