Let’s Go Rva!
Sports Backers fosters community through events, advocacy, and fitness, promoting a healthier, active lifestyle for all.
Get Moving With Our
Upcoming Events!
March 7, 2026
Virginia Credit Union River City Half & 5k
Richmond is gorgeous and this event shows it off like never before! The half and 5k courses are rich in architecture, lush foliage, river views, and more!
YMCA 10k Training Team
Our team of amazing coaches will be with you every step of the way to the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger finish line on April 18.
April 18, 2026
Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k
The Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger is RVA’s favorite spring tradition! Since 2000, people from around the Richmond region and beyond have gathered to share in the journey of crossing the 10k finish line.
April 18, 2026
Atlantic Union Bank 10K Mini
Race day isn’t just for you…it’s for your kids too! This one-mile run for kids 4-12 is sure to be the best intro to how fun running can be. Add some mascots, a shirt, and finisher medal and you’ve got the perfect Saturday! Make the #ukrops10k a family affair!
Building a Healthier Community
Fitness Warriors
We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live an active lifestyle. Regardless of your neighborhood, income, or cultural background—being active is important to your overall health & well-being.
Bike Walk RVA
Bike Walk RVA, a Sports Backers program, advocates for safe, connected spaces to bike and walk for all ages and abilities. From the transformative Fall Line trail to neighborhood traffic calming and protected bike lanes, we empower advocates to shape a built environment that makes active transportation accessible and desirable for everyone.
Kids on the Move
Fitness should be FUN, and that’s why we’ve created an action-packed program designed specifically for kids. From creative exercises to running across a finish line, Kids On The Move makes staying active an adventure! Through a variety of program initiatives, children across the region make friends, build confidence, and learn healthy habits that will follow them through life.
FALL LIne
The Fall Line will be a transformational 43-mile long, north-south trail spine for our region’s active transportation network. It will connect seven localities in Central Virginia: Ashland, Hanover, Henrico, Richmond, Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, and Petersburg.
Active RVA
The Active RVA Certification and Awards program recognizes the Richmond region’s exceptional employers and schools that are implementing innovative programs to promote physical activity. Hundreds of organizations have earned Active RVA Certification for their embrace of active living.
Volunteer
There are 8,000 people annually who volunteer to make Sports Backers and its events and programs the successes they are.
Donate
With your support, we can make this region a more attractive and vibrant place to live where safe opportunities to walk, run, bike, swim, or workout abound and where access to these activities are available to all.
Latest News & Updates
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Swamp Rabbit Trail Study Trip to Greenville
Swamp Rabbit Trail Study Trip to Greenville Written by: Emily Schreer, Policy and Planning Manager In Greenville, South Carolina, the 28-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail has shaped how the city connects its neighborhoods, grows its economy, and invests in public space. In early February 2026, Sports Backers brought together developers, artists, foundations, nonprofits, and representatives from Richmond, Henrico,…
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episode 113 – 100 runs of a lifetime with bart yasso
episode 113 – 100 runs of a lifetime with bart yasso For years Bart Yasso has been a name in the running industry, most notably he was the Chief Running Officer at Runner’s World Magazine. Now Bart is sharing his top runs in a book with National Geographic. One of his picks is the Ukrop’s…
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dominion energy riverrock opens registration, announces music lineup for 2026 festival, and highlights impact of the brown’s island improvement project
dominion energy riverrock opens registration, announces music lineup for 2026 festival, and highlights impact of the brown’s island improvement project Written by: Nan Callahan, PR & Communications Manager national touring acts and regional favorites headline richmond’s signature outdoor sports and music celebration, may 15-17 RICHMOND, VA – Dominion Energy Riverrock, the nation’s premier outdoor sports…
It’s Here! Sports Backers New Office & Active Living Hub
Located on the Fall Line trail, Sports Backers’ new headquarters and Active Living Hub is a vibrant center for community engagement and active living.