Runnin’ and Strummin’ in Louisville

LOUISVILLE, Miss. (WCBI)- Running and music is the perfect combination.

The city of Louisville put them together to create the first ever Runnin’ and Strummin’ event.

“Without music, this world will be a very, very different place,” said Senator Giles Ward.

The Runnin’ and Strummin 5k and music festival took over Legion State Park.

And this event is a little different than most.

“We thought it would be a good way to get things going in the morning, and then Candace began to tell us you know that’s a little bit unique. Our plan was to have four venues between the lodge and the entrance to the park. So runners coming in on that last mile, they were going to hear gospel music, country music, bluegrass as they ran that last leg,” said Ron Gammill.

Though it was brisk Saturday morning, many folks still made it out.

Organizers say they are happy runners got the chance to experience the great outdoors.

“We really want to do it to raise awareness for the park, to make some money for Legion State Park. We want to keep it open because our community loves this park. People run and walk in this park all the time, fish, kids go to the playground. We’re trying to raise money to keep the park alive,” said Canice Cefalu.

“This park was built in 1933 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the CCC’s. They are historic log cabins all along this park. It’s just something that everyone should see and enjoy, and it is literally in our backyard. Eighty percent of this park is inside the city limits of Louisville, Mississippi,” said Senator Ward.

And that goal is already being made.

Runner Ffion Price says she didn’t know the park existed, but she is happy she does now.

“It’s been really really cool. We checked out some of the trails behind. We walked around the lake, but it’s really pretty. It’s amazing that it’s only like 30 minutes away from Starkville, so we will probably definitely going to come back, and like check it out again when we have another day,” said Price.

The event closed off with a firework program and veteran tribute.