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Another special homecoming for Cairo’s own J.J. Wilcox
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CROSSING THE FINISH LINE in first place in the male category, age 20-29, is J.J. Wilcox.
More than 100 people participated in Saturday’s 5K run to benefit the Jackie Robinson Boys & Girls Club in Cairo Saturday. The run/walk is held annually in memory of Marshell Wilcox who worked at the Boys & Girls Club. Wilcox’s family was on hand for the event, and her son, J.J. Wilcox, finished the run in first place in the male, age 20-29, category.
Wilcox, a safety for the Atlanta Falcons, took time to visit with members of the Boys & Girls Club Friday afternoon. Stephen Francis, director of the club, says Wilcox is a hero to the children.
“J.J. understands that the kids want to see him, talk to him and touch him, so he gives them all the attention that they desire of him when he comes,” said Francis, “He is a living reality of what is possible if we work hard, excel in the classroom and believe in ourselves. J.J. doesn’t owe anybody anything. He is doing enough by representing his community with pride wherever he goes.”
The club was decorated with Falcons paraphernalia and the club members wore Team Wilcox t-shirts during Wilcox’s visit to the club on Friday.
On Saturday, Wilcox joined his father, James, and sister, Iesha, at the 5K where Cairo Mayor Booker Gainor presented them with a special proclamation naming Aug. 13 as Marshell Jones Wilcox Day in Cairo.
J.J. Wilcox was among the 120 runners and walkers who completed the route. In addition to the participants, there were approximately 200 people who donated to the event, according to Mr. Francis.
“All in all, everyone was a winner in that the race was for a good cause. We would like to thank J.J., his wife Stephanie, his sister Iesha and his father James Wilcox for their continued support of our JRBGC. We would also like to thank everyone that came out in support of our event and those that gave donations,” said Francis.
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