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Cold weather means polar run




Runners take off at the start of the race. Debbie Herrera | Johnstonian News

Selma’s seventh annual Polar Bear Run on Jan. 14 gave runners and walkers a chance to support animal welfare while keeping their New Year’s resolutions. 

This year’s event showcased Bailey’s Human Rescue, a nonprofit working to reduce the overpopulation and euthanization of cats and dogs. The rescue accepted donations for its shelter.



“I am glad they invited us back,” said Morgan Estes, one of the group’s leaders.  “We have gathered more donations this year than last year.”

The rescue accepted dog and cat food, blankets, household cleaners and monetary donations for vet visits and medications. 

“It’s super sweet that we could come back, and we had a great turnout,” said Mädchen Bronson, a volunteer. 

For safety, police and firefighters in their vehicles led the runners along the marked route.

Runners had positive reviews of this year’s track and event. 

“The track was well marked for us,” said Susanne Smith. “When you run, you don’t think about where to turn and what to do, so those markers are very helpful. This is one of the best races I have been a part of.” 

New Selma Parks and Recreation Director Alyssa Fox was excited to host the event. “This is my first time hosting a 5K run, and I want everyone to enjoy it,” she said. “We had 35 runners and a handful of dogs and two cats that joined this year.”

The top finishers in this year’s run were John Horner, first place; Travis Pace with dog Toby, second place; and Jason Holloman, third. 

“We want to thank all our sponsors, our town, firefighters and police officers for making this event possible,”  Fox said. “We will be here again next year same time and place.”

Second-place winner Travis Pace crosses the finish line with dog, Toby. Debbie Herrera | Johnstonian News