Rocketts Landing Run to the River Part II

Friday, September 25, 2009

Who said raising money was supposed to be a cakewalk? More like an uphill 10K.

The 2nd Annual Rocketts Landing Run to the River on Saturday, October 17, benefits the Neighborhood Resource Center (NRC) of Greater Fulton Hill, a non-profit organization that runs a school and community outreach center.

Their programs include tutoring, Montessori preschool, after school programs, art, music and GED classes. They will also soon open a café, in partnership with Tricycle Gardens, featuring organic food options with many of the ingredients grown in the NRC garden.

“We are very pleased to be building our relationship with Rocketts Landing,” says Bridgette Huff, NRC’s Race Director and Board Secretary. “It’s been very encouraging how the community and residents are reaching out and supporting us in our mission.”

The race is expected to be a larger event this year, with potentially three or four times as many participants. Local musicians will play alongside the courses, and there will be a halfway party at the Park House in Libby Hill Park.

Three different courses are featured: 10k Hill Run, 5k Walk and 1k Fun Run.

The 10K Hill Run follows the same course as last year, beginning in Fulton Hill and continuing through Montrose Heights, Fulton Bottom, Church Hill and Rocketts Landing. Three major hills included in the course are Libby Hill, Powhatan Hill and Fulton Hill, all of which are short and steep, yet should not deter runners from participating. Terrain will include pavement, sidewalks, grass, cobblestones and stairs, with elevation ranging from 170-feet above sea level at the top of the race to 12-feet above sea level at the Rocketts Landing marina. 

“If someone’s preparing for the Richmond marathon, this is a great way to practice,” Huff says.

A designated member of Richmond Road Runners Club has measured the course to ensure it meets USATF standards.

The 5k Walk and 1k Fun Run are not nearly as strenuous. The 5k Walk spans Montrose Heights, Fulton Hill and Rocketts Landing, while the 1k Fun Run will take place on Salem Street. Though the latter race is geared toward kids of all ages, parents are encouraged to participate as well. “Dogs and strollers are also welcome,” Huff says.

Upon completing the race, participants will be able to enjoy NRC’s Finish Line Party and Alternative Health Fair with complimentary breakfast, massages, consultations from alternative health practitioners, live music and tours of the NRC.

Additionally, the top two “fundrunners” who raise the most money will receive either a one-year annual membership to Richmond Balance, a personal fitness gym in Shockoe Bottom, or a gift certificate offering a two-night stay at The Homestead in Hot Springs, VA. Awards will also be presented to the top three men and women in the 10K and 5K races.

To register for the race and to learn more, please visit Runtotheriver.org.