Jackie Robinson Boys & Girls Club in Cairo to host 5K on Saturday

CAIRO — From the time the Jackie Robinson Boys & Girls Club opened in Cairo in 2009, it was a place that was close to Marshell Wilcox’s heart.

The mother of current Tampa Bay Buccaneer J.J. Wilcox worked to ensure that the children would receive the care and guidance they needed when they walked through the doors. She carried out this mission until she succumbed to lupus a few years ago.

Since then, that same place she dedicated much of her time to has honored her memory with the Annual JRBGC 5K Run/Walk on Mother’s Day weekend.

The annual event also is a fundraiser for the club.

In addition to music and prizes for the top three overall male and females in each age group, the event will feature an appearance by Wilcox. Wilcox spent the last few seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and is now a little closer to home. He has taken over the responsibility of being a positive role model in his community much like his late mother was.

Over the last few years, Wilcox has been able to become more involved with the event, much to the delight of his father James Wilcox Sr.

He said it’s been great to not only have his son home, but to get the community together for a day of fellowship.

“We just want them to enjoy it,” Wilcox Sr. said. “[Leave with] a smile and to hug their kids. You might not be able to hug them tomorrow. That’s what my kids have learned. So just come out and appreciate one another.”

The actual race will be held on Saturday with pre-race registration starting at 7 a.m. and the race kicking off at 8 a.m. with the Boys & Girls Club serving as the starting line. The club is located at 101 6th St. S.W. in Cairo.

Registration for the race is $20 comes with a T-shirt while supplies last. Those interested in participating can register on the club’s website at www.mnw-bgc.org.