By Ngoc Vo

Xtreme Athletics is holding the second annual Xtreme Zombie Run to help raise funds for its competitive cheer squads and gymnastic teams.

The run will be at 4986 U.S. Highway 231 in Brundidge, beside Ellis Metals on Oct. 25.

The program includes a one-mile fun run for children 11 and under and a zombie run 5K. Jodie Singleton and Josh Filiault, Xtreme Athletics co-owners, came up with the idea because they wanted something different, according to Singleton.

“Most people just do normal 5K,” Singleton said. “But we want something special. We decided to have the Zombie run around Halloween … It was a fun event last year, the kids really enjoyed so we decided to have it again.”

Singleton said approximately 200 runners participated in last year event. She is expecting more than 300 runners this year.

The proceeds of the run will go to buy equipment, cheer skirts and leotards for Xtreme Athletics members, according to Singleton.

“We are also hoping the run will cover their competition costs,” Singleton said. “The cheer squads and gymnasts participate in around six competitions a year.”

Registered runners will received an email notifying them their wave times. According to the organizer, the first wave will start at 8 a.m.

The Xtreme Zombie Run is a 5K obstacle run where participants competing against each other and against zombies.

Runners will be given three flags representing their health level, Singleton said. The zombies will try to get those flags. In order to win the 5K, runners have to complete a series of man-made and natural obstacles and make it to the finish line with at least one intact flag.

Zombies for the run are parents and Xtreme Athletics employees. Runners will need to use speed, agility, and strategies to overcome the obstacles in their path, according to the organizers.

Joy Scarbrough, leader of one of last year’s teams, said the run was an exciting experience. Scarbrough’s team had 30 members aged from eight to 50.

“We do not have anything like this before,” Scarbrough said. “The run is grate for all ages. Any time you go outdoors to exercise is wonderful… The kid had such a good time. They really enjoyed trying to avoid the zombies. It was an exciting run. You never knew what would be around the next corner.”

Registration forms and fees for the run are available at Xtreme Athletics and on its website. Participants can register individually or in teams. Xtreme Athletics can also be reached at 334-770-FLIP.