‘Big annual Christmas party’ Meadow Brook Runs set for Dec. 16

The annual Meadow Brook Runs 5K and Fun Run, which raises money for the nonprofit Jesus Video Project of Alabama, will take place in the Meadow Brook Corporate Park on Saturday, Dec. 16.

And after hosting the event for 23 years, Bob Cosby, race director and Jesus Video Project CEO, said it is almost like a reunion.

“It’s like having a big annual Christmas party for friends old and new,” he said.

The 5K will begin at 9 a.m.; the 1-mile fun run will begin at 10 a.m.; and an awards ceremony and prize drawings will be at 10:30 a.m. 

The event has about 180 sponsors, including USAmeriBank — the lead sponsor for 21 years — according to Cosby. 

Nearly 20 food vendors will take part, including Baumhower’s Restaurant, Bud’s Best Cookies, Chick-fil-A, Dreamland BBQ, Firehouse Subs and Papa John’s Pizza.

Runners will receive Christmas T-shirts and gift bags. They also get to enjoy what the event website calls “the most beautiful course” in Birmingham.

“The course goes around two pretty Daniel Corporation lakes, with a large central geyser fountain not found on any other local race course,” Cosby said.

For admission, voluntary tax-deductible contributions can be made to the 501(c)(3) The Jesus Video Project of Alabama. A minimum donation of $15-25 is encouraged.

Late registration and packet pickup will be open on race day from 7:30-8:45 a.m.

To register or get more information, call 991-6054 or go to meadowbrookruns.org.