Come experience America’s friendliest marathon this Saturday, November 16th in Richmond, Virginia at 8am! While there is no race day registration, there is still time to sign up. The entry fee is $130. At this point, runners who wish to participate must stop by the Arthur Ashe Center either today from 5-9pm or tomorrow, Friday November 15th, from 11am-5pm.
Runners World Magazine had this to say on the well-known Richmond Marathon, also calling it one of the 12 must-do marathons:
This marathon starts and finishes in charming historic downtown Richmond, once the capital of the south. The scenic, fast loop course takes in all of the city’s old neighborhoods, traveling up Monument Avenue, past statues of Confederate soldiers and Richmond native and tennis star Arthur Ashe, through the campus of Virginia Commonwealth University, then alongside the James River. Along with the typical water and sports drink stops, this is probably the only race in the country that offers junk food stops, at miles 16 and 22, stocked with Gummy Bears, cookies, and soda. There are also two wet-washcloth stations, at miles 17 and 23, perfect for cleaning up for your finish-line photo. Three party zones set up along the way with free food, prize giveaways, and noisemakers for spectators and family means lots of enthusiastic, cheering support. The last mile features a fast downhill to the finish in the trendy Shockoe Slip area, where there are plenty of postrace goodies, including bagels, fruit, and pizza, and a band to celebrate your finish.
And for all you marathon addicts, rest assured, this event is a Boston Marathon qualifier!
Another great option for those hesitant to run 26.2 miles, myself included, is the HCA VA 8K. The entry fee is $50 and the same rules apply for registration as that of the marathon. The 8K will start at 7am – an hour before the marathon begins. Like the marathon, the 8K will start at 6th & Broad Streets and end on a downhill slope at 5th & Tredegar Street at Brown’s Island and the Canal Walk on Richmond’s beautiful downtown riverfront.
A race of this level isn’t complete without a team of volunteers. If you’re interested, sign up here. There are many different and fun ways to be part of this great event.
There will be live music and entertainment throughout the course. Check here for a list of performers and their locations. The post-race celebration will be held on Brown’s Island with food, drinks, and activities for children. It will be a wonderful time to celebrate the accomplishments of all the participants!
