Right Around the River Blog

Run to the River Hits Rocketts Landing This Weekend

Post Date: 10-18-2011

Get your running shoes on and feel-good vibes going -- Richmond's only urban cross-country race, Rocketts Landing Run to the River, is this Saturday, and we can't wait for the sweaty fun to begin!

As dedicated sponsors, Run to the River holds a special place within our community, since the event dually functions as a challenging 10k hill run/5k walk and fundraiser for the Neighborhood Resource Center (NRC). Located in Richmond’s East End Fulton Hill neighborhood, NRC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing area residents with an array of resources to support personal and community growth. Their annual Run to the River race is a strong aspect of their annual funding goals.

"We are really excited about Run to the River 2011,” says Race Director Annette Cousins. “With attendance at the center increasing in 2011, the funds raised through Run to the River are more important than ever.”

Rocketts Landing Run to the River, Neighborhood Resource Center, Richmond, Virginia

Last year, the funds raised by race participants helped provide over 800 children and adults with access to many of the programs and resources the community now depends on for daily life. And with more than 200 runners and 40 fundraisers expected this year, the NRC hopes to raise $30,000 to support their vast resources including a Montessori Preschool, after-school tutoring and job support services.

From a race perspective, the course is also one of the most challenging in the city — and this year brings new levels of trials.

“The race features a new course that is just as challenging, but includes a portion of the Virginia Capital Trail,” describes Annette. “Runners will still tackle two sets of stairs, cobblestone roads, grassy hills and urban streets.”

Rocketts Landing Run to the River, Neighborhood Resource Center, Richmond, Virginia

You’ll also experience some major hills on this course, with the highest topping off at 190 feet. And, just like any great race, participants will enjoy an awards ceremony and finish-line party at the Neighborhood Resource Center, featuring live music, homemade food, free massages and more!

Registration is still open for anyone interested to race and even raise funds as a Fundrunner, their “Samaritans with Sneakers.” To learn more, be sure to visit the Rocketts Landing Run to the River website. We look forward seeing you bright and early this Saturday morning!

Rocketts Landing Run to the River, Neighborhood Resource Center, Richmond, Virginia