For more Jamboree In The Hills coverage from WTOV9,visit our special section.

With tarps and coolers in hand, hundreds of people lined up to claim prime Jamboree In The Hills real estate Thursday morning.

At 8 a.m., the Jamboree site went from an empty amphitheater to a lawn full of country music fans in just minutes.

Some of the runners said the annual Redneck Run -- which happens each morning so fans can claim their spots for the festival seating -- is just a part of the Jamboree In The Hills experience.

When asked if the muddy conditions posed a concern, they said not at all and that in fact, it makes the run more fun.

Fans gave it their all to claim their spots and those participating said they have one goal in mind: to get the best view of the day's performers.

But the run is no easy feat and for some, it takes planning and preparation.

"We woke up early, we started hydrating ourselves with some water (and) Gatorades, did some calisthenics," said Brock Whiteman.

There are some rules involved. Everyone must have the proper shoes and tarps, but most important, runners are given this piece of advice: Whatever you do, don't fall!

 Mike Drexel and Chuck Lewis, who also participated in the run, said, "Stay on your feet and aim for the sidewalks. I fell for half of it. I fell but I got back up and I made it count. After the race is over and the fear of falling is gone, runners are able to take pride in the spots they've claimed and enjoy the show. …You haven't lived Jambo unless you've done that -- unless you run. That's what makes it. It's a hate-love relationship. You hate to love the Redneck Run, but you do it every year."

For those who will be running to claim their spots for the next three mornings, seasoned runners say plan on getting in line early, wear running shoes and be careful.

For more Jamboree In The Hills coverage,visit our special section.