The Rundown: RVA’s active events for Fall 2015, Part 2

Body movin’, body movin’, we be getting down and you know we’re fall groovin’. Cycling, family runs, turkey trots, charity, and a TON of doughnuts.

November 2, 2015; 9:55 AM • by Kathryn Pullam

Original — October 07, 2015

Hallelujah! The summer doldrums with the twin demons of heat and humidity are behind us and the crisp air and colorful leaves of autumn are here–perfect running weather. Luckily for us, there are a slew of opportunities to get your run (or walk, or bike) on in October and November. Beer, Marines, costumes, three-legged rescue pups, pizza–fall races have something for everyone.

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RVA Pick

Anthem Richmond Marathon/Half Marathon/8k – Saturday, November 14th

• Event Type: Run
• Distance(s): Full marathon, half marathon, 8k
• Location: Starts at Broad Street between 6th and 8th; ends at 5th and Tredegar Streets
• Time: 7:00 AM (8k), 7:30 AM (Half), 7:45 AM (Full)
• Registration: It’s complicated; ranges from $40 to $135. Best to check website.

THE big kahuna when it comes to Richmond racing is, without a doubt, the Richmond Marathon. Dubbed America’s Friendliest Marathon by Runner’s World Magazine, the Richmond Marathon offers a near-perfect race experience at all distances: superb organization, scenic routes, enthusiastic crowds, and a ton of swag at the finish line. Marathoners: just don’t take the beer that eager Bellevue residents offer during mile 24… trust me, you’ll regret it. You’re better offwaiting for the pizza at the finish festival on Brown’s Island. Half marathoners: those aren’t hills in Bryan Park, they’re just inclines. 8kers: Don’t eat all the pizza before I get there.

The races are equally fun for spectators. Make yourself a clever spectator sign (“Let the course be with you;” “Ryan Gosling is waiting at the finish line;” “I do marathons… on Netflix”), dust off your UCI cowbell, and head out to the course to cheer on the nearly 30,000 participants. Penny Lane Pub offers the perfect opportunity for morning libations AND spectating; you can’t beat the block party atmosphere in Bellevue; and you’ll love the opportunity to holler at runners in-between mouthfuls of brunch at your Main Street eatery of choice.

Pro tip: The half marathon tends to sell out, so register NOW. First time marathoners, stash a credit card in your checked bag or your short pocket – you’ll want to buy an official finisher shirt once you’re finished (available only on Brown’s Island).

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Chill vibes

5th Annual Dunkin’ Donuts Munchkins Run – Saturday, November 21st

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k
• Location: St. Christopher’s School, 711 St. Christopher’s Road, Richmond
• Time: 9:00 AM
• Registration: $25/youth, $30/adults through November 5; $30/youth, $35/adults through November 18th

Do you like doughnuts? Do you like running? Would you like to eat doughnuts WHILE running? Then this one’s for you. Organizers promise a 5k course where you’ll be “surrounded by thousands of yummy Dunkin’ Donuts Munchkins.” As if that isn’t enough, you’ll also get to belly up to free coffee, bagels, hot chocolate (and of course… doughnuts) at the post-race 5k. Whew. With all those glorious calories in reach, you might want to consider running the course twice.

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Move for good

2nd Annual Rapids Run for Veterans 5k – Saturday, November 7th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k, ¼ mile Kids’ Fun Run
• Location: James River High School, 3700 James River Road, Midlothian
• Time: 10:30 AM
• Registration: $20 for adults, $15 for students

This 5k offers the great opportunity to meet, greet, and thank our veterans at a post-race breakfast. See how you measure up in a Marine Corps obstacle course, snap a selfie with a big blow marine or Humvee, and check out Herb Delbridge’s Purple Heart Truck, which honors those who served in the Vietnam War. Fittingly, all proceeds will go to the Fisher House Foundation, which provides a home away from home for the families of wounded warriors. Oorah!

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For families

St. Francis 5k Fun Fest & 1k Kids’ Run – Saturday, November 7th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k, 1k Kids’ Run
• Location: Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center, 13170 St. Francis Blvd, Midlothian
• Time: 9 AM
• Registration: Free for the kids’ run, $30 for the 5k

Entertainment and festivities follow this race celebrating St. Francis’ 10 years of service to the community.

Lion Pride 5k & Kids’ Fun Run – Saturday, November 7th

• Event Type: Trail Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k, 1 Mile Kids’ Fun Run
• Location: Goochland Elementary School, 3150 River Road West, Goochland
• Time: 8:15 AM (Kids’ Fun Run); 9:00 AM (5k)
• Registration: $25 through October 28; $35 through race day

The Goochland Elementary School PETA brings another new 5k to the central Virginia race calendar and another opportunity to set a fresh course record.

Short Pump Mile and Kids Fun Run – Sunday, November 8th

• Event Type: Kids’ Run
• Distance(s): 1 Mile, 400M
• Location: American Family Fitness Short Pump Location, 11760 W. Broad Street, Henrico
• Time: Wave starts beginning at 7:45; check website and registration page for details
• Registration: $15 or $13 per runner for a family registering three or more participants

Delayed from October 4th thanks to the impending threat of Hurricane Joaquin, this one-of-a-kind event for kids up to age 18 combines school pride with individual competition as schools compete to have the highest participation and individual students compete for cash prizes in their age groups. The littlest runners get their shot at glory in the Short Pump Express Run–a non-timed 400 meter fun run for the 5 and under crowd.

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For the “So Crazy It Just Might Work” crowd

Piedmont 8 Hour Run – Saturday, November 21st

• Event Type: Run
• Distance(s): As far as you can go in 8 hours
• Location: Powhatan State Park, 4616 Powhatan State Park Road, Powhatan
• Time: 8:00 AM
• Registration: $40

Billed as the opportunity to “see how far you can run,” this endurance event gives you the chance to find out. Run the beautiful three-hour trail loop as many times as you want to (or can) over an eight-hour period.

You’ll need lots of food to go for eight hours and you’ll get it – everything from cookies to hot broth and hamburgers will be available for runners. While you’re running, the family can enjoy the playgrounds, boating, cornhole, and other activities.

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For pet-lovers

Dorey & Her Story 5k – Sunday, November 15th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k
• Location: Bryan Park, Richmond
• Time: 10:00 AM
• Registration: $20

Who can deny the “aw” factor of a tripod rescue pup? Dorey, a rescue from Richmond Animal Control, is a three legged pup who loves to tear up the pavement in a good run. Her determined and sweet demeanor inspired her owner, Lauryn, to start this race to benefit Richmond Animal Control. There are waves for non-dog runners, runners and dogs, and walkers. This is your chance to meet Dorey and help dogs like her find their forever homes.

Hounds on the Hill 5k and Canine Fun Run – Saturday, November 21st

• Event Type: Run/Canine Fun Run
• Distance(s): 5k, 1 mile
• Location: Clover Hill High School. 13301 Kelly Green Lane, Midlothian
• Time: 8:00 AM (Canine Fun Run), 9:00 AM (5k)
• Registration: It’s complicated; best to check the event website. Ranges from $20 to $50.

Here’s another chance to run with your canine companion–you know you’re gonna want to buy the adorable Hounds on the Hill branded doggie bandana so your pup doesn’t feel left out.

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Turkey Trots

Central Virginia Turkey Trot 5k and Kids’ Mile – Thursday, November 26th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k and Kids’ Mile
• Location: Midlothian (Course TBA)
• Time: 8:00 AM
• Registration: $15 for Kids’ Mile) and $35 for 5k through November 4; 5k price bumps to $40 after November 4.

A new kid on the Turkey Trot block; stay tuned to the website for more details. So far, I can tell you there will be a race, it will be in Midlothian, and there will be medals.

Richmond Road Runner’s Turkey Trot 10k – Thursday, November 26th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 10k
• Location: University of Richmond, Tyler Haynes Commons, Richmond
• Time: 9:00 AM
• Registration: $25 for RRRC Members through October 31, $30 thereafter; $35 for non-members through October 31, $40 thereafter.

According to the Calorie Control Council (sounds authoritative, yes?) the average American consumes around 4,500 calories during a typical Thanksgiving celebration of snacking followed by a traditional turkey dinner with trimmings. By my not-so-scientific calculations, you’d have to run 45 miles to make up for that and let’s face it… that is not happening.

But you can put a small dent in that intake with this perennial Richmond favorite. The Richmond Road Runner’s Turkey Trot sells out every year, despite the challenging, hilly course that meanders around University of Richmond’s campus and the vicinity. Trust me, after this course you’ll feel like you earned a double helping of mashed potatoes (even if you really didn’t).

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Previously

Golden Leaf 15k – Saturday, October 17th

• Event Type: Point to Point Trail Run
• Distance(s): 15k
• Location: La Crosse, Virginia
• Time: 8:00 AM
• Registration: $35 through October 16th; $40 on race day

Fall is made for running, and there are few things better than a trail race during the height of the season. The Golden Leaf 15k offers a goldilocks distance and rare point-to-point course along the Tobacco Heritage Trail. There’s something really special about starting in one place and ending somewhere totally different. Makes you feel like you really went somewhere. Organizers promise a flat course of mixed soft and paved surfaces with plenty of fall foliage and quaint towns.

The other elements of this race that make it my out of town pick? The meet-up point for the shuttle to the start is the La Crosse caboose (as in train caboose) and finish line goodies include your choice of cider or hot chocolate.

Bottom to Tap – Saturday, October 17th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 3 miles(ish)
• Location: 17th Street Farmer’s Market, 100 N 17th Street, Richmond
• Time: 11:00 AM
• Registration: $34 through October 16th; $40 walk up on race day

Looking for a super laid-back run that doesn’t take itself seriously (in a good way)? This is the one for you. Sponsored by New Belgium Brewing Company, Bottom to Tap is all about the brews and the fun. No timing chips, no race results, and a competition called “Outrun the Rooster” that involves roosters, hares, and a $1,000 prize. But don’t let the tongue-in-cheek FAQ page fool you–this course includes the now world-famous cobbled climb of Libby Hill, which means every rooster, hare, runner, and walker will more than earn their free post-race beer.

Ashland Harvest Run and Pumpkin Walk – Saturday, October 17th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 10k, 5k, 1 Mile Family Fun Walk
• Location: 1112 Maple Street, Ashland
• Time: 8:00 AM
• Registration: $30

The Center of the Universe is as good a place as any to hit the streets for a few miles on a crisp Saturday morning. This is a flat course that winds through Randolph-Macon and the historic heart of Ashland with that offers the unique Ashland experience of trying to outrun the Amtrak to the finish line (let me know if you beat it–I never have).

Martin’s Tour of Richmond Gran Fondo – Saturday, October 17th

• Event Type: Cycling
• Distance(s): 26 miles, 58 miles, or 101 miles
• Location: Richmond Raceway Complex, 600 E. Laburnum Avenue, Richmond
• Time: 7:30 AM/7:45 AM/9:30 AM
• Registration: It’s complicated. Best to refer to the website; ranges from $40 to $115 for if you pre-register and $50 to $125 for walk up registration.

Now that it’s all over, are you finding yourself in Big Bike Race™ withdrawal? Well then, this is your fix. Heck, “Big” is even in the name – “Gran Fondo” means “Big Ride” in Italian. Gran Fondos are mass participation, mass-participation cycling events that are wildly popular in Italy. All cyclists, from recreational to competitive, are welcome to participate and with three distances to choose some, you’ll likely be able to find the right one to match your fanny’s current level of bike-seat stamina.

St. Edward-Epiphany 5k Eagle Challenge – Saturday, October 17th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k, ½ mile kids’ run
• Location: 10701 W. Huguenot Road, Richmond
• Time: 8:00 AM
• Registration: $35 per individual, $110 per family

The Eagle Challenge claims the best 5k course in Richmond – a combination of rolling hills and flats through the Woodmont neighborhood.

Panther Pride 5k/1 Mile Walk – Saturday, October 17th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k, 1 mile
• Location: 1500 N. Lombardy Street, Richmond
• Time: 8:00 AM
• Registration: $35 through October 16; students free

The inaugural Panther Pride 5k/1 Mile Walk is being held in conjunction with Virginia Union University’s 150th Anniversary and Homecoming activities and they are pulling out all the stops. There’s a pre-race warm up with former VUU track star Reggie Thornton; VUU Alumnus JonJonTheDJ will spin the race soundtrack; and the race T-shirt is sweet looking AND odor resistant (bonus!).

VCU Broad Street Mile – Saturday, October 17th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k, 1 Mile
• Location: Broad Street between Belvidere Street and Hermitage Road
• Time: 10:00 AM
• Registration: It’s complicated. Best to refer to the website; ranges from free to $45

A fundraiser and street festival built around a 5k and mile run, this is one of Richmond’s most unique running events. Registrants can choose to support an official charity partner or fundraise for any one of their favorite charities through CrowdRise. One Mile runners choose one of five themed mile races: Kids Mile, No Limits Mile, Spirit Mile, Senior Mile, or Doggy Dash (yep, you can run this one with your dog).

Afterwards, hang out at the free festival with live music, food trucks, local vendors, and kids activities.

Make a Difference Day 5k – Saturday, October 24th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k
• Location: 1300 Semmes Avenue, Richmond
• Time: 11:00 AM
• Registration: $30

Hosted by the Pediatric Connection, the Make a Difference Day 5k is part of the national Make a Difference Day campaign, a USA Today initiative to unite volunteers across the country to improve lives of others on October 24th. Your 3.1 miles will help support Ronald McDonald House Charities, Doorways (formerly Hospital Hospitality House) and the Evelyn D. Reinhart Guest House at Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital. Aside from the fantastic causes behind this event, it also offers runners a course that looks simple but is in fact quite challenging–two of the three miles will be spent taking on the infamous cross winds of the Lee Bridge.

Run DBC 5k – Saturday, October 24th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k
• Location: Derbyshire Baptist Church, 8800 Derbyshire Road, Richmond
• Time: 8:30 AM
• Registration: $30 for adults (ages 13 and up); $20 for kids (12 and under)

Another inaugural offering on Richmond’s charity run scene, the DBC 5k benefits CARITAS, the largest homeless services provider in greater Richmond.

Race 4 Taylor 5k & ½ Miler – Saturday, October 31st

• **Event Type: ** Trail Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k, ½ Mile kids’ fun run/adult walk
• Location: Powhatan High School, 1800 Judes Ferry Road, Powhatan
• Time: 8:30 AM
• Registration: $20 for 5k, $10 for ½ mile

Spent more time under the bleachers than running when you were in high school? This is your chance to recapture that teen spirit by hitting the Powhatan High School cross country course. All proceeds from this race benefit Powhatan resident Taylor Roberts, a young lady who was in a car accident in February 2015 that resulted in a severe spinal cord injury. Taylor has a long recovery ahead; join the community rallying support her.

Petersburg Halloween Half Marathon & 5k – Saturday, October 24th

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): Half Marathon, 5k
• Location: Union Station, 103 River Street, Petersburg
• Time: 7:00 AM
• Registration: $85 for the half, $35 for the 5k

Starting and ending in Old Towne Petersburg and with an elevation chart that looks a little bit like the arched back of a black cat, this half marathon isn’t one for the faint-hearted. Costumes are encouraged; I’d recommend wings.

Trick or Trot 5k and Monster Dash – Saturday, October 31st

• Event Type: Trail Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k and Kids’ Fun Run
• Location: Robious Landing Park, 3800 James River Road, Midlothian
• Time: 9:10 AM (Kids’ Fun Run aka Monster Dash); 9:30 AM (5k)
• Registration: Free for the Kids’ Monster Dash; $30 for 5k

The trails of Robious Landing Park are a great introduction to trail running and suiting up as Halloween’s Jason or Big Foot would be costume perfection for this 5k benefiting the Virginia Hemophilia Foundation.

Call Federal Marathon Jr. – Saturday, October 24th

• Event Type: Kids Run
• Distance(s): ½ mile, 1 mile
• Location: Byrd Park, Fountain Lake, Richmond
• Time: Races start at Noon; pre-race concert starts at 10:30 AM and warm-up at 11:30 AM
• Registration: $20 through October 22nd, $30 for walk up registration on October 24th

Think you’ve got the next Kara Goucher or Meb Keflezighi on your hands? Or just a kid who likes to run? Then this is the perfect opportunity for your kiddo to catch the racing bug, which could lead to future fame and glory or, in the short-term, just a really successful nap time. It’s October, so of course there’s a costume contest, and it’s a race, so everyone gets a medal. Byrd Park’s Fountain Lake provides the perfect fall backdrop and Sports Backers brings the fun.

Great Pumpkin 5k & Kids’ Fun Run – Saturday, October 31st

• Event Type: Run/Walk
• Distance(s): 5k, 1k kids’ fun run
• Location: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, 1800 Lakeside Avenue, Richmond
• Time: 8:30 AM
• Registration: $45 for the 5k; $15 for Kids’ Fun Run

Without a doubt, this race offers the most beautiful course in RVA. You can’t beat the backdrop of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden for this flat and fast 5k. The kids will do a lap around Sydnor Lake and everyone will enjoy the post-race party.

Pro Tip: Lewis Ginter members receive a $10 discount on entry fees

November 2, 2015 9:55 AM · in Bon Air, East End Daily, and more 0