Freedom Run Press Release
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The 48th Annual Freedom Run Committee is pleased to announce the 2024 Freedom Runner posthumously, Jerry Frakes.
Jerry passed away January 11, 2024, at the young age of 83. This honor is given to Jerry as a nod to the brilliance and spunk he brought to the Freedom Run. To help celebrate him and his contributions to not only the race but the community, his family, wife Connie, son Kelly and daughter Robin, as well as Jerry’s grandson Austin, will join runners at the start and finish line on race day.
The Freedom Runner honor is given to a local runner who stands and/or stood for community spirit/valued our nation's freedom and who has demonstrated success in the Freedom Run.
Jerry is remembered by representing all of the above, including being Freedom Run’s Race Director for 30 years. It was his incredible achievements as an athlete, businessman and community leader that continue to be spoken about throughout this community since his passing.
“What was synonymous with the name Jerry Frakes was his massive smile, boisterous laugh and high-powered energy beyond any other human being,” said Terrah Stroda, Freedom Run committee member. “If you knew Jerry Frakes, you knew two things: Coors Distribution and ‘go until you drop.’
Jerry worked alongside Jerry Mathis for many years, coordinating and crafting what was then called the “Coors Freedom Run” from 1976 until he passed the baton in 2006.
Known for his wild and noteworthy American Flag running shorts, Coors logo on neon sunglasses and loud megaphone, Jerry expertly crafted a running event that was equal parts competition and community party. By showcasing high-level athletes, but welcoming recreational runners just the same, he designed what is now the longstanding tradition of fun and competition where the finish line will never change and the route is meant to be fast and exhilarating.
“When we asked Connie permission to honor Jerry, she was full of amazing stories and sent some pretty epic Jerry pictures,” said Stroda. “As she talked, I was struck with my own early childhood memories of Jerry. I’ll never forget when I picked up my first Freedom Run race packet and got the full-on Jerry Frakes firm handshake, ornery jokes and laughter as he personally handed me my first pair of the legendary Coors neon glasses for the run.”
The committee invites you to join them as they honor Jerry at the starting line on July 4th in Junction City by registering here. For race updates, please follow the Freedom Run - Junction City Facebook page.
To learn more about Freedom Fest and for a schedule of events, visit the Freedom Fest website.