Jarrett Jacobs, left, co-chaired the Toughman Committee and also took part in the road race.

Pell City hosted the Toughman Alabama competition last weekend, an event that brought hundreds of athletes from across the country to the Lakeside Park Sports Complex.

“The event was a huge suceess, and we thank everyone for their participation. We had more than 350 racers compete and thousands on hand to witness this event,” said Ofes Forman, chairman of the local event committee.

“The purpose of bringing the Toughman Triathlon to Pell City was to make a major economic impact, as well as showcasing Logan Martin Lake and Lakeside Park. All hotels in Pell City were completely filled, and some of the hotels in the suurounding areas. Restuarants and gas stations saw a definite increase in customers and sales.”

The event committee also included co-chairmen Jarrett Jacobs and Michael Murphy, coordinator Erica Grieve, secretary Estelle Forman, assistant secretary Elsie McGowan, and assistant coordinator Holly Murphy.

Event sponsors were Metro Bank, Therapy South, Zaxby’s, Alabama Power, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Riverside Refractories, Lakeside Hospice, MAPS, Triplet’s Food Store, Bill Hereford, Jack’s, Town & Country Ford, Butts to Go, Mitcham Financial Services, Big Deddy’s BBQ & Wings, Golden Rule BBQ & Grill, Dr. Robert Deshazer, and Royal Foods of Alabama.

“We owe a debt of gratitude to our sponsors for their generous financial support,” Forman said. “We would also like to thank the St. Clair News-Aegis and the city officials for their support. A special shout-out should go to council president James McGowan and councilman Terry Templin for coming to the event.”

Forman reserved most of his thanks for event volunteers.

“They directed traffic in the hot sun and provided water stations for thirsty runners and bikers, and they provided their services willingly and with much enthusiasm. Special thanks to the Throttle King Bike Club and the Pell City Line Dancers.”