On the Run

Noura Bayoumi

Contributing Writer

More than 40,000 people participated in the 13th annual Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k race this past Saturday.

Named one of the best races in the country according to USA Today, this 6.21-mile race has grown to be the fourth largest 10k in the country.

The Monument Avenue 10k began in 2000 when executive director Jon Lugbill had the idea of creating an event on Monument Avenue.

“Monument Avenue is such a beautiful street, and it’s actually the only street listed on the National Historic Register,” said Jackie Holt, communications manager for Sports Backers, an integral sponsor and organizer for the Monument 10k.

Ukrop’s was already organizing the Richmond Marathon but didn’t want to host a traditional 26.2 mile marathon because they believed too small of a population of runners could complete it. They wanted to create an event that the entire community could take part in.

“It’s an event that the entire community celebrates. It’s a staple of fitness for our region,” Holt said.

Throughout the race, there were non-stop live music, cheering competitions and costume contests. Various bands were conveniently located at places where runners would need some extra energy.

“I loved all the entertainment around me; it was so helpful at keeping my mind off of running, and most of the bands were really energetic and great to listen to,” said VCU freshman 10k participant Carrie Dawkins.

Dawkins’ favorite part of being in the race was being able to go back and cheer on the remaining runners after she finished.

“It felt great to see someone smile and speed up because we cheered them on,” Dawkins said.