Russell Forest Run Makes Donation to Local Schools

For the past 14 years, on the last Saturday in February, runners from across the nation make an annual trek to Russell Crossroads for the Russell Forest Run 5K and 10K races. Each year, the event benefits students in our local schools. Last Tuesday, August 1, we were able to make our largest single donation to date—$12,000 to the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation. Because of the support of thousands of runners over the past 14 years and the support from sponsors and volunteers, the Russell Forest Run has donated close to $122,000 to the foundation!

The Russell Forest Run 10K course is one of the more challenging courses in this part of Alabama, but the breathtaking view from atop Heaven Hill (yes, another Alabama hill) as you turn and head toward the finish line makes it almost worth it. And, that final mile is almost completely downhill as runners break for The Stables and the famous Grits Bar at the post-race party!

Please add the date to your calendar for the 15th annual Russell Forest Run. It will be Saturday, February 24, 2024. We hope to see you then!

Photo (l to r): Lisa Harris, ACSEF Executive Director; Robert Gunn, Race Director; Leanne Calhoun, ACSEF President.