DECATUR — When the sun topped the clouds at 6:35 a.m. it was as if a gas station snack bar heat lamp hit full force on a slew of little roller treats. The shimmering dogs and Tornados, however, were glistening runners making final preparations for the Community Free Clinic Spirit of America 5-Miler at Point Mallard Park.
Summer bronzed and warming quickly thanks to the ‘leventy-billion degree heat and humidity, a field of 76 toed the line for the oldest July 4 holiday race in North Alabama. With history dating 30 years, in association with the city’s longtime Spirit of America Festival, the road race along with the festival golf tournament, hot air balloons and massive fireworks show is part of the area’s solid holiday history.
Joel Lamp added his name to the race’s history books Saturday morning, winning his third straight Spirit of America title. The 41-year-old veteran runner from Decatur finished in 29:24 to win by four minutes. That was faster than his 2024 and 2023 wins.
Lauren Estes, 35, of Cullman, grabbed her first Spirit title with a fine time of 40:37. She was 17th overall.
Bakir Zamora, 17, and Jake Stevens, 14, both of Decatur, were second and third in 33:15 and 33:29
Kathy Sandlin, 51, of Moulton, was second (23rd overall) in 44:20. She took Women’s Masters honors with that finish. Lucy Daigre, 16, of Decatur, was third (25th) in 45:13.
Tyrone Harris, 45, of Athens, grabbed Men’s Masters honors with his finish in 35:23. He was sixth overall.
Slight changes were made to this year’s course. Runners started by the new Jimmy Johns Pickleball Courts and made a loop around the soccer field before heading out on the path along the golf course. Instead of going all the way to the main road leading to the water park, though, at 2.4 miles the route hit the riverside trail heading back to the finish line. The outbound was about 2.4 miles and inbound was 2.6ish. The lakeside shade was nice though little relief from the humidity.
Race proceeds benefitted the Community Free Clinic. The race is put on by the River City Runners, with a host of sponsors and volunteers.
See all of the results here.
