Richmond isn’t just running, it’s racing ahead. From neighborhood sidewalks to the scenic stretches along the James River, the region’s running culture has reached undeniable momentum. That energy is now translating into national recognition, as multiple Sports Backers races have earned top rankings among the largest events in the United States.
A Record-Breaking Year for Richmond Races
In fall 2025, the Allianz Richmond Marathon made history when all three race distances — the Allianz Richmond Marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and Richmond 8k — sold out completely. More than 21,000 runners representing all 50 states and 24 countries took to the streets on November 15, marking the largest field in the event’s 48-year history. Even more telling, registration for the 2026 event is already pacing ahead of last year’s record-breaking numbers.
National Recognition Puts Richmond on the Map
Earlier this year, Running USA, the premier industry resource for the running community, released its list of the top races of 2025. According to the 2025 Top Races Report, the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger ranked as the 23rd largest race in the United States and the 5th largest 10k in the country (a fact made even more intriguing since it’s made up of 90% locals). The CarMax Richmond Half Marathon placed 91st among all U.S. races and ranked as the 32nd largest half marathon in the nation. The Allianz Richmond Marathon earned distinction as the 17th largest marathon in the United States—placing Richmond alongside some of the most iconic races in the country.
“A huge part of why Sports Backers events are showing up on the same lists as the New York City and Chicago marathons is the Richmond community,” said Meghan Keogh, Race Director for the Allianz Richmond Marathon and the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger. “The unwavering support from our sponsors, volunteers, emergency personnel, runners, walkers, spectators, and residents creates an experience that’s both nationally competitive and uniquely Richmond. That collective spirit is what fuels our continued growth.”
Richmond’s rise as a running destination is no accident. In 2022, the Road Runners Club of America recognized the region as a Runner Friendly Community, a designation that has only been reinforced by the rapid growth of local run clubs, walking groups, and grassroots fitness initiatives. Visitors increasingly travel to Richmond not only for race day, but for the welcoming atmosphere, vibrant neighborhoods, and scenic courses that define the experience.
With participation trending upward across its portfolio of events and early 2026 registrations already signaling another strong year ahead, Sports Backers continues to build on a momentum that shows no signs of slowing.
Richmond isn’t simply hosting races — it’s building a movement.
For a full calendar of 2026 Sports Backers events and training teams, visit sportsbackers.org.
About Sports BackersWith a key message of Let’s Go, RVA, the mission of Sports Backers is to inspire people to live actively. A nonprofit organization, Sports Backers is dedicated to producing nationally recognized quality sporting events and programs that motivate residents and visitors alike to be more active, supporting youth running and fitness programs, and advocating for safe and connected networks of bike and pedestrian infrastructure. Learn more at sportsbackers.org.
