Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board Presents 10th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary Run®, 3-Mile Walk and Young Patriots Fun Run on April 19
King of Prussia, PA (PRWEB) February 04, 2015 -- The Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board will present the 10th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run ® on Sunday, April 19, 2015. The course, located throughout Valley Forge National Historical Park, winds over rolling hills and past significant historic landmarks on the site of General George Washington’s 1777-78 winter encampment and is a unique challenge for runners of all skill levels. More than 1,200 runners from six states, including runners from corporate teams and local clubs, are expected to trek the five-mile, USA Track & Field-certified course, while others can participate in the 3-Mile Walk or Young Patriots Fun Run. The race has raised a total of $207,000 over the past nine years to support Park and Visitor Center improvements. Organizers anticipate the family-friendly event will raise $25,000 this year.
The scenic course steps off at 8:30 a.m. from the Muhlenberg Brigade, where General Peter Muhlenberg anchored the outer line of defense in preparation of a potential British attack. Runners also pass monuments of Revolutionary War notables such as General Anthony Wayne, Baron von Steuben and the Patriots of African Descent, as well as cannons and log cabins, and the National Memorial Arch, which commemorates the service and sacrifice of the men and women of the Valley Forge encampment.
The three-mile walk begins at 8:40 a.m., following much of the same course. Dogs on leashes are permitted for this walk.
Kids ages 6–14 are encouraged to join in the Young Patriots Fun Run (approximately one mile), which begins at the start line of the 5-miler at 8:50 a.m. Each of the young runners receives a participant’s medal.
“We are thrilled to be celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Valley Forge Revolutionary Run®. Valley Forge National Historical Park is one of the region’s most visited destinations and we are eager to help preserve and improve the Park with funds from this year’s Run,” said Bill Fitzgerald, president of the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board. “This is an event we look forward to
every year, as it offers a memorable experience for the participants and spectators, showcasing the exquisite landscape of Montgomery County and connecting people to the region’s historic roots.”
“The Revolutionary Run is a great event that engages participants and the community in preserving one of the nation's historic gems, Valley Forge National Historical Park. The park, its beauty and its history provide meaningful inspiration to runners and walkers every day; this event is a great way to celebrate that in a way that benefits the park,” added Kate Hammond, superintendent, Valley Forge National Historical Park.
The Revolutionary Run awards cash prizes to the top three male and female finishers in the 5-mile race. The Revolutionary Run course record of 24:41, set in 2012, is held by Philadelphian Michael McKeeman.
The Revolutionary Run is part of the USATF Mid-Atlantic Grand Prix and Club Challenge, a series of 11 events at various distances that take place in the tri-state area. “The comradery among runners is fantastic. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and in this case, this wonderful park,” said Ed Maher, Grand Prix Coordinator, Mid-Atlantic USA Track & Field.
How to register
Pre-registration for the Revolutionary Run is required. Participants can register in advance by mail or online through March 28 for $35. Starting March 29 through April 18, registration is $40. USATF members receive a $2 discount. The registration for the 3-mile walk is $20 and $10 for the Fun Run. There is no day-of registration.
Packet pick-up will be at the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board's office located at 1000 First Avenue (Suite 101) in the Maschellmac Office Park in King of Prussia. Registrants can pick up their packets from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, April 17; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 18; or on race day at the Packet Pick Up tent in the park.
“Over the past ten years, proceeds from the Revolutionary Run have helped make significant improvements to the Park, including the connector trail from the Knox parking lot to the trail system, programming in the park with the story telling benches by Historic Philadelphia and the beautiful new Visitors Center entrance,” said Don Naimoli, president, Friends of Valley Forge Park.
For more information and to register visit valleyforge.org/revolutionary-run/.
Dan Weckerly, Valley Forge CVB, http://www.valleyforge.org, +1 (610) 834-7990, [email protected]
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