Covington County Relay for Life organizers said the annual event was a success, raising a total of $107,000 to help the American Cancer Society in its fight against the deadly disease.

“This was a wonderful event,” event chairman Ressie Gray said. “We took in a little more than we were anticipating, and that was great to see.”

Gray said the event’s initial goal was $113,000, but organizers had set their expectations a little lower due to the downturn in the nation’s economy.

“We were a little short, but with the economy the way it is, I think we did wonderful to raise the $107,000,” she said. “It was a great night. It was wonderful to see the number of people from the community who came out and made the event a big success.”

Gray said those who attended Relay for Life this year enjoyed the newest activities, including a boxcar race and a “Relay Idol” competition.

“Those were both a huge hit and I’m sure they’ll be something we do every year now, in addition to the (womanless) beauty pageant,” she said. “Both events were huge successes, and everyone loved the fireworks as well.”

Gray said preparations will begin for the 2010 Covington County Relay for Life in August.