Registration closed as of April 2

The rubber of the shoes meets the road at historic Mount Vernon once a year since 1985 for the annual George Washington Parkway Classic, formerly a 15K until 2001 when it became a 10-miler. Sunday, April 27, 2008 will mark the 24th anniversary of this community running event (10th year for the 5K which starts at Belle Haven Park).

What do runners say? "When the title says classic, this is one time when you have to believe it. While the entrance fee was steep, $15.00, the T-shirt, was a GOOD shirt; you know, actually wearable in public, well made. GOOD STUFF. The packet pick-up was as good as any around, with a raffle for a bike, and refreshments. The instructions were clear, and precise. The directions were correct, and the course was well marked. All the preparations, including plenty of buses for moving people from the parking area, which provided plenty of space, to the start at Mt. Vernon, as well as a good system for clothing collection at the start, and pick up at the finish. This was a well organized race. I was really impressed. I've run many races, but this one was really quite good," stated Becky Nolan (May 11, 1986) after the second George Washington Parkway Classic 15K. Nolan was a member of the Rock Creek Running Club (RC2) and was first in her age group and first master in 1:03:25. In the first year, Nolan was runner up with 59:34.

The incremental success of the George Washington Parkway Classic has been in the loyal volunteers over the years. The event could not have thrived all of these years without them. The volunteers are the backbone of the event from those working at packet pick-up to those handing out water along the George Washington Memorial Parkway.

Through the years the volunteers have brought enthusiasm, knowledge, and added a level of support for that tired runner near Belle Haven Park near mile eight who is searching for that last wind and a volunteer shouts out, "you can make it, hang tough." The words do not sound all that powerful but it works.

Volunteer opportunities exist at each of the Pacers Running Stores (Old Town, Clarendon, Silver Spring, and Fairfax) during packet pick-up dates. On race day there are opportunities at the start areas for the 10-miler (Mount Vernon), and the 5K (Belle Haven Park). The two events will finish in Old Town Alexandria at Oronoco Bay Park.

Gather your co-workers and/or friends and groups are welcomed. There are full volunteer sign up details located at the race web site or (703-836-1463). You can direct your questions to George Banker.

All volunteers will receive a commemorative t-shirt and enjoy the personal satisfaction that you have made a difference. Each person will receive a guaranteed entry into the 2009 George Washington Parkway Classic.

Do not let this opportunity pass as we are looking to get volunteers who grow with this event as we move forward for the years to come. The beneficiary for the event is the Boys and Girls Club of Alexandria.

The sponsors of the George Washington Parkway Classic include BAE Systems, Pacers Running Stores, New Balance, dc access, NACDS, Capital Bagel Bakery, Burke and Herbert, United Brotherhood and Joiners of America, Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine, and Potomac Runners.

George Washington Parkway Classic