More than 1,000 people took to the streets of Nashville for the second annual St. Jude Music Fest Road Race on June 12, raising more than $80,000 for the hospital. Of the total, $27,000 was raised by 153 St. Jude Heroes, who raise donations for the hospital as they participate in races, marathons and other endurance events.
Hosted by country music star Jo Dee Messina, the 5K race is the first family run and charity event to be included in the annual CMA Music Festival celebration of country music.
St. Jude patient Ellen officially started the race after performing the national anthem for the crowd of runners and walkers. Her father also thanked participants for helping to support the mission of St. Jude before the runners took off from the State Court House in downtown Nashville.
St. Jude Heroes who raised $250 were treated to tickets to the CMA Music Festival's concert the evening of the race, and those who raised $500 were invited to an exclusive brunch with Messina. Radio personalities Big D and Bubba from WSIX 98 in Nashville served as emcees for the event and presented the race awards.
"This is the second year that St. Jude and I have teamed up for the 5K here in Nashville," Messina said. "I was thrilled with the turnout and fundraising done by the runners. I hope to set up a St. Jude 5K tour so that we can let runners all over help raise money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the amazing things they do."
