The inaugural event emerged as a Top-Rated event on RaceRaves
RICHMOND – The Virginia Credit Union River City Half & 5k, Sports Backers’ newest event, made a remarkable debut in 2024, garnering rave reviews from participants on RaceRaves, a popular race review platform. The event earned an impressive 4.7 out of 5 overall rating, with 26 reviews contributing to its recognition as a RaceRaves Top Rated event in its very first year.
“We are thrilled with the success of the Virginia Credit Union River City Half & 5k,” said Molly Johnson, Race Director. “We can’t wait to build on this positive momentum, enhance the participant experience, and showcase the beauty of Richmond’s riverfront to both returning and first-time runners on March 8.”
The event’s scenic route is one of its most celebrated features. Runners are treated to breathtaking views as the course winds through the University of Richmond campus, over the Huguenot Bridge, Riverside Meadows, Pony Pasture, Westover Hills, the Nickel Bridge, Windsor Farms, and more. This emphasis on scenic beauty was reflected in the RaceRaves score for Scenery, which earned a near-perfect 4.8 rating.
Participants praised the gorgeous river views and enjoyed early signs of spring, lush foliage, and picturesque neighborhoods, creating a memorable race-day atmosphere. The course does feature some challenging hills, but the views make the climb worth it and provide runners with a sense of accomplishment. These tougher course points gave the Virginia Credit Union River City Half & 5k a solid 4.0 rating for Difficulty.
Sports Backers prides itself on delivering a seamless and participant-focused race-day experience, and this event was no exception. From logistics to on-course support, the meticulous planning resonated with runners, earning the event a 4.6 rating for Production.
“Sports Backers never disappoints with its race production, and their hard work truly lends to RVA’s many racing events to stand out in the country and be so popular,” said one reviewer. “Overall, an unforgettable experience, and I can’t wait to come back next year for round two!”
The race concludes at the University of Richmond along Lakeview Lane, where participants are welcomed into a vibrant Post Race Festival. Finishers of both the half marathon and the 5k receive a long-sleeved technical shirt, a finisher medal, and two drink tickets. Half marathon participants also receive a branded tote bag.
Runners can enjoy Papa Johns pizza and local craft beer from Hardywood Park Craft Brewery as they celebrate their accomplishment. The Swag category earned a solid 4.1 score, reflecting participants’ appreciation for meaningful keepsakes commemorating their training and race-day triumph.
Sports Backers is excited to build on the positive feedback and continue curating a top-notch experience for runners in 2025. The second annual Virginia Credit Union River City Half & 5k will take place on March 8, 2025. Interested participants are encouraged to register early, following the event sellout in 2024. For more information and to register, visit https://www.sportsbackers.org/events/rivercityhalf/.
About Sports Backers
With a key message of Let’s Go, RVA, the mission of Sports Backers is to inspire people to live actively. A nonprofit organization, Sports Backers is dedicated to producing nationally recognized quality sporting events and programs that motivate residents and visitors alike to be more active, supporting youth running and fitness programs, and advocating for safe and connected networks of bike and pedestrian infrastructure. Learn more at sportsbackers.org.
