By AMY JONES / Associate Editor

COLUMBIANA — The founder of the Shelby County Never Ever Give Up Race, which honored Shelby County High School graduate Chris Goodwin last year, is taking recommendations for this year’s race honoree.

Jane McDaniel created the event last year to help raise money for Goodwin, who lost a leg after a car accident in February 2012. The event raised more than $2,000 to help with Goodwin’s medical bills.

This year’s race will honor another Shelby County resident who needs help, but McDaniel said she doesn’t know yet who that person will be. Race organizers are accepting recommendations until March 31.

“(We will) try to help out someone who really deserves it,” McDaniel said in an email interview. “I hope to accomplish our goal, to help those that need and deserve a little help — those who never ever give up!”

This year’s race will be June 29 at 8 a.m. — the morning of Columbiana’s annual Liberty Day celebration. The race, which winds through the city of Columbiana, will follow a similar route as last year, although the route may be adjusted slightly due to vendor set-up considerations, McDaniel said.

Last year, 44 people participated — more than double what race organizers were expecting. This year, McDaniel said she’s hoping for 150 participants.

“I dream big,” she said.

Early bird registration for the race is ongoing until April 1. The cost for early bird registration is $25; for those who sign up after April 1, the cost will be $35.

McDaniel said she’s also looking for sponsors and volunteers for the race.

The Never Ever Give Up Race is a national event, started by the Jessie Rees Foundation in honor of Jessie Rees, a 12-year-old who passed away from cancer in 2012. However, Rees’ family gave McDaniel permission to use the NEGU name, according to the Shelby County NEGU Race website.

To sign up or find information about volunteering or being a sponsor, visit Shelbycountynegu.com.