Raindrops came down, but the Irish spirit prevailed on the Town Square Saturday as many gathered to celebrate St. Patrick's Day early and to raise money to benefit Relay for Life.

Kerry Klein, who coordinated the Third Annual Shamrock Run/Walk said the final tally for money raised is not in yet, but she estimates it to be over $1,700.

The event was held this year in memory of Tom and Jennie Rodgers, prominent Edgefieldians, who both died in the last two years. Mr. Rodgers died after a long battle with cancer and Mrs. Rodgers died from the results of a tragic horseback riding accident.

"Considering the rain, the crowd was fantastic," said Klein. "Edgefield is a small town, but the people have huge hearts."

Because of the rain, Klein said, only 103 runners/walkers signed up this year. Only 58 crossed the finish line.

Top overall winners were Sami Nyamongo (first place, coming in at 10 minutes and 38 seconds); Orinthal Striggles (second place, 10:44); and Larry Evans (third place, 11:16).

Nyamongo and Striggles, who have won first and second place for the past three years are professional runners.

Nyamongo is from Atlanta, originally from Kenya, and has been running a long time.

Striggles is from Columbia.

He graduated from Benedict College and has been running professionally since 2003. His 8-year-old son, Samuel, ran in this year's race.

"He did very well. He finished in the top 21 overall," said Striggles.

Both said they would like to see this race grow.

"Some things have changed, but we'd like to see thousands attend, not only those from Edgefield County, but all around. We're all about health and wellness education."

Trent Miller took the prize for the Top Local (Edgefield County) Runner and the Top Middle School Student. He came in at 14 minutes, 16 seconds.

He has been running for about three years and plays soccer and football at JET Middle School. Others in the Local Categories include Rhett Jolly, Top Elementary School Student; Thomas Morgan, Top High School Student; and Anne Kiser, Top Senior (55 and up).

The Best Irish Dressed Runner/Walkers were Alisha Harley and Samantha Timmerman.

The Best Irish Dressed Storefront title was shared by The Edgefield Advertiser and Edgefield Office Supply. Coming in Last was Debbie Durham, who won a pound of chocolate, a diet coke and a date with the mayor.

Elizabeth Holmes was the First Female to cross the finish line and she got a $17 gift card to Target.

In the Little Leprechaun Race ( 7 and under), Ashley Deese and Jackson Harling took the lead.
Former Mayor Bob McKie, who walked in the race, came in 56th.

He asked, "Do you have anything for the 76-year-old category?"

Current Mayor Ken Durham came in 19th.

He said, "I am amazed at how many people weathered the rain to come out. I can't think of two finer people for the event to honor than Tom and Jennie Rodgers. I thank Kerry and all the volunteers. People don't realize how much work goes into it."

Irish music, face painting, green carnations, free Kool-Aid and cookies and a Relay for Life representative were set up on the Square. Area restaurants were open for business with Irish specials.

"God bless the volunteers who made it through the rain," said Klein. "And praise the Lord it wasn't on Sunday when there was more rain. I had a great time with everyone, especially with my mom, 'The Queen of Ireland.'"