Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k Opens Registration: Get Ready to Party on Monument Avenue on April 12
Richmond, VA – Richmond’s favorite kick off to spring is back for its 26th year! Registration for the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger is officially open at sportsbackers.org. This iconic event, which celebrates health, wellness, and community, is a must-do for tens of thousands of participants each year. Ranked #43 on RunSignUp’s list of the 2023 Top 100 Largest Races, the 10k brings together runners, walkers, and spectators for a high-energy day like no other. Last year, the event celebrated its 25th anniversary with over 24,000 participants and Sports Backers expects to see participation grow for the fourth year in a row. The early bird sale held this past April drew nearly 3,500 registrations and the Richmond running community turned out in record numbers at the recently held Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon. Early sign-ups are recommended as the event continues to grow, following the exciting return to Monument Avenue in 2022. Youth pricing is available for registrants aged 14 and under and the Atlantic Union Bank 10k Mini, which sold out in 2024, is back for young runners ages 4-12. Virtual registration for both the 10k and 10k Mini is also available, along with registration for the YMCA 10k Training Team.
Debuting in 2000, the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger is known for being accessible to participants of all fitness levels, from seasoned runners to first timers, and walkers. The YMCA 10k Training Team is also a great resource for anyone looking to train while building a supportive community leading up to race day. With its flat, race-friendly course, it’s the perfect event for setting personal goals or simply enjoying a day of fun and unity. The event has earned its reputation as a must-do springtime celebration, thanks to the 10k Spirit Contest presented by The Richmond Experience, live bands and DJs, enthusiastic volunteers, and thousands of spectators lining Monument Avenue.
“While the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger is celebrating its 26th year, it continues to attract new participants, keeping the excitement fresh and vibrant each year,” said Meghan Keogh, Race Director for the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k. “The energy and camaraderie within our community are truly inspiring. Last year we saw nearly 4,000 more runners than the previous year, and we’re excited to keep that momentum going for another unforgettable race day on Monument Avenue!”
This year marks a special milestone as the VCU Massey Cancer Center celebrates its 20th year as an official charity partner of the 10k. The event has served as a powerful fundraising platform for the Massey Challenge, allowing participants to honor loved ones affected by cancer while supporting cancer research. The Massey Mile, a course highlight, features vibrant décor and the signature energy of the VCU Peppas, making it one of the most memorable moments of the race.
“We’re thrilled to celebrate 20 years of the Massey Challenge and honor our past, as well as our future,” said Amy Williams, Massey Board Chair and Massey Challenge Chair. “This partnership with the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k has been a perfect opportunity to raise cancer awareness, promote active living, and have fun with our community—all while supporting a future free from the burdens of cancer.”
YMCA 10k Training Team Kicks Off on February 1
Registration is also open for the YMCA 10k Training Team and the team is set to hold its first group training session on Saturday, February 1, 2025. The 10-week program emphasizes the team approach to training as it prepares participants to successfully complete the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k. The 10k has been a staple in the Richmond community, attracting thousands of runners and spectators each year since its debut in 2000. Whether you are looking to jumpstart your fitness journey or are ready to add more intense workouts into your training schedule, the motivational coaches and supportive teammates on the YMCA 10k Training Team will have you ready for race day.
The YMCA 10k Training Team will take place at 18 host sites around the Richmond region, including YMCA branches and select community locations. More details and registration for the YMCA 10k Training Team can be found at https://www.sportsbackers.org/training-team/ymca-10k-training-team/.
Both the YMCA 10k Training Team and Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k will offer income-based registration rates for anyone who qualifies and would otherwise not be able to participate. More details can be found at https://www.sportsbackers.org/events/monument-ave-10k/10k-pricing-registration/.
VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center celebrates 20 years as the official Charity Partner of the 10k
The VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and Sports Backers Youth Programs will once again serve as the official event charity partners of the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger. 2025 marks the 20th year of the partnership between Massey and the 10k, allowing participants to act in the fight against cancer and help raise crucial funds for Massey’s life-saving mission.
This year is particularly exciting as Massey celebrates its 20th anniversary of being involved with the 10k. As a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive cancer center, Massey is among the top 4% of cancer centers across the country and the first in a new generation of community-centered cancer centers — one where world-class science and research is informed by the people we serve.
With cancer impacting 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women over their lifetimes, the fight against cancer is a fight we all can stand behind. Massey’s commitment to improving the health of our community and to advancing access and education to help prevent, detect and treat all cancers, makes them the perfect charity partner for the event. 10k participants can “10K the Massey Way” leading up to and on April 12 by creating their own personalized fundraising page at www.masseychallenge.com.
Sports Backers Youth Programs to Serve as Event Charity Partner
Sports Backers invests in the future of active living in our region through our youth programs such as Kids On The Move and the Active Living Leadership ALL Stars Program. From the youngest kids getting an opportunity to be a part of a fitness club, reaping the socio-emotional benefits while moving more, to those on their way to adulthood and applying to college, Sports Backers is passionate about supporting Richmond region youth. We do this by providing the resources they need to be successful, whether that be a pair of running shoes for a child in need, covering the cost of bus transportation for a run club to attend one of our signature events, or providing a scholarship to a promising student-athlete. Your donation makes it possible for us to support the most important part of our community – our kids. They are the future and we know that by investing in them and instilling healthy habits now, it benefits us all.
For more information and registration for the 2025 Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger, please visit www.sportsbackers.org.