On Saturday Apr. 12, nearly 25,000 runners and walkers gathered in Richmond for the 26th annual Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k. This event transforms the historic Monument Avenue into a vibrant celebration of fitness and community.
This race is accomodating for runners of all paces, with a flat, tree-lined course and an ideal setting for both competitive runners and casual joggers. 21-year-old, University of Richmond cross-country standout, Henry Haase clinched first place with a time of 30:31. Beyond the race, the event is celebrated by the community with local bands and DJs lining the course, and numerous fans to encourage runners throughout the entire 6.2 mile course.
Junior cross-country runner, Anna-Jane Molis, has been running since 8th grade, and has been an avid participant of the Monument Avenue 10k.
“I have done the Monument every year because I think it’s a fun run and it supports local communities,” Molis said.
Many athletes and runners have a pre and post race routine, typically consisting of fueling with easily digestible carbohydrates, hydrating, and engaging in a light warm-up to prepare for the event.
“Pre-race I just eat yogurt and after I load up on carbs,” Molis said.
The event has become a staple in Richmond’s spring calendar, with over 500,000 runners and walkers having crossed the finish line since its opening race in 2000.
“The most memorable moment was finishing the race and getting the medal,” Molis said.
The Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k also served as a platform for charitable efforts. The VCU Massey Cancer Center, a longtime partner, raised over $221,000 through the Massey Challenge, with 545 individual fundraisers and 2,410 unique donors contributing to the cause. Additionally, programs like Kids On The Move and The Healing Place utilized the event to promote active living and support individuals in recovery.
As Richmond continues to embrace the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k, the event not only celebrates athletic achievement but also fosters a sense of community and support for local causes.
