8,500 Runners have signed up to take part in fourth annual Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10K on March 29
The fourth annual Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10K, presented by Powerade, closed registration today reaching its limit of 8,500 participants. The limit was imposed to help manage the dramatic increase in runners seen since this event began in 2000. In four short years this race has grown to be the fifth largest 10K in the country.

(Photo left: Tania Jones (32), winner of the 2002 Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10K.)

New this year is the First Market Mile presented by Minute Maid that allows kids 5 to 14 years of age to compete in a first-class running event. The First Market Mile Kids Run is limited to 1,000 entries and space is still available in that race.

The Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10K is now the largest running race in Richmond. The Richmond Sports Backers organize the event with the help of the Richmond Road Runners Club and more than 500 volunteers. The popularity of the race stems from the magnificent architecture, scenic tree-lined medians, and historic monuments that line Monument Avenue. And, Jon Lugbill, executive director of the Richmond Sports Backers adds, "The promotional value of Ukrop's Super Markets and the Coca-Cola family of products sponsoring the event provided tremendous visibility for the race."

Last year's race raised more than $60,000 for the Association for the Support of Children with Cancer (ASK), the event's official beneficiary.

For more information, please contact Scott Schricker at (804) 285-9495.