Minooka Park in Jemison will be muddy and messy on March 16 with more than 200 racers expected to participate in the Minooka Mudder 5K.

Cornerstone Fitness and Wellness co-owner Barry Baker said participation from the community as well as surrounding areas across the state has been overwhelming.

“This is the first mud run we have had in Chilton County,” Baker said. “We have had a great response from people wanting to participate.”

Baker said more than 200 people pre-registered for the race set to begin at 8 a.m. with more participants expected to register the day of the race.

“So far, everything has gone very smooth for our first time,” Baker said. “We will learn a lot from this year and hopefully make the one next year even better.”

Minooka park manager Gerald Arrington and volunteer Michael Deeson have been making last minute preparations to a lot of the man-made obstacles located along the 18-course race.

“This is going to be a lot of fun for those participating in the race,” Arrington said.

Arrington said a lot of the obstacles would be a “surprise” for racers participating but some of them included a mud pit and a wall racers had to climb as well as a lake that will serve as a barrier to cross over.

Chilton County sheriff Kevin Davis provided material for some of the obstacles that he acquired from army surplus including commercial size rafts that will be located in water for racers to use as they cross over the water.

Baker said Deeson and Arrington have been a tremendous help in preparing the race and nothing would be possible without their help.

“It is going to be a lot of messy fun,” Baker said. “We are thankful for everyone who has helped including volunteers to help with safety type things like handing out water and towels to the racers.”