DAPHNE, Ala. — Supporting Educational Enrich-ment in Daphne’s Schools’ Classic Rock 5K and Fun Run on Saturday drew hundreds of runners and supporters to join in the festivities. From running enthusiasts to preschoolers, crowds enjoyed sunshine, exercise, free hamburgers and several children’s activities.

Registered runners numbered over 1,000 this year, according to organizers.

Among 5K runners were the Corporate Cup runners, a group that goes to several races throughout the year and the person with the fastest total time wins a trophy.

Other participants cited varying reasons for joining the race. Some said the aspect of raising money for local schools was most appealing.

“Our friend’s daughter goes to school here and we wanted to help out,” Kelly Fuller said.

Youngsters also understood the reason for the occasion.

“We wanted to support the schools,” Gracie Robbins, 8, said.

Her father cited the event as an opportunity to help out.

“My daughter attends Christ the King,” Jeff Robbins said. “It (the race) is a good way to get involved.”

Michelle Bailey walked beside her husband in the Fun Run. She agreed that the children fueled her motivation.

“We’re here to support our son and his school,” she said. “…and (we’re participating) because it’s good for us.”

The race gave many people the opportunity to get off the couch and do their bodies good in the warm sunshine.

“You just feel healthier,” Leah Trainer, 11, said.

The work out, combined with a competitive drive, pushed Trainer’s friend Katie Parker.

“We’re here because our school had a competition between the classes to have the most people enter the race; and it’s good to get exercise,” she said.

The Daphne Middle School cheerleaders wore purple uniforms and carried signs of encouragement for the runners.

“They (the runners) need inspiration and support to keep going,” Olivia Whitfield, 13, a DMS cheerleader, said.

Others simply enjoyed the outing as a community and family event. Angela Rothermel ran with her husband and three sons, ages 5, 8 and 9, in the Fun Run.

“I did it last year with Nathan (Rothermel’s 9-year-old) and we had so much fun. We decided to do it this year as a family,” she said.

Carriann Toombs, an organizer, was impressed by the turn out.

“I thought it was the best one (race) ever. It was a big community event and we were really excited,” she said.