Running Man event draws 84 students

By Sam Waller

The Feed Store had an almost identical number of participants from a year ago but an unprecedented result for the 24th annual Running Man event Oct. 29.

Three teams – seventh graders, juniors, and seniors – tied for first place with all three returning 100 percent of their runners without any being caught.

Feed Store director Tisha Wilkins said it is believed to be the first time more than one team has scored 100 percent.

“I do not recall more than one,” she said. “That was fun. Everyone was excited about getting back.”

Wilkins said 84 students from junior high through high school and 13 adult runners participated. Each class was taken to a different location in Albany and was tasked with getting back to The Feed Store without being spotted.

“We had a great turnout,” Wilkins said. “I had lots of great volunteers as far as adult runners and spotlighters and more volunteers helping to register. It was exciting because the band made it back from the area marching contest in Lubbock, and we had several band members come in to run.”

Wilkins said the event went smoothly with no unfortunate instances.

“It went well,” she said. “After this many years, the process is pretty well down.”

The evening began at 9:00 p.m. with runners checking in and providing the required permission forms signed by parents.

Jamey Calvary of the Big Country FCA spoke to participants before the race.

The Halloween alternative event was started in 1997 by the youth organization IMPACT as a substitute for less desirable activities.