Mrs. Virginia All American 2004 to kick-off kids fun run
Leesburg Mayor Kristen C. Umstattd has been named the official starter of the YMCA Loudoun County 16th Annual Leesburg 10K/20K. The annual fundraising race benefits children, families, and individuals in Loudoun County through the YMCA's financial aid and scholarship program, Building Bridges.

Shari L. Murray, Mrs. Virginia All American 2004, will start the free kids fun run immediately after the start of the race (8:20 am). Kids will be able to participate in a quarter-mile race and have the opportunity to cross the official finish line and receive a medal.

Started in 1989 by the Northern Virginia Building Industry Association (NVBIA), the Leesburg 10K provided a sanctioned venue for runners and has grown from 160 runners to more than 800. The race also allowed the NVBIA to provide needed funds to a wide variety of charities that support less fortunate children and families in Loudoun County.

In 2003, the race was turned over to the YMCA Loudoun County and has continued to grow with organizations such as the YMCA Loudoun County; Every Citizen Has Opportunities (ECHO); the Loudoun County Adult Day Center; Blue Ridge Speech and Hearing; and Loudoun Interfaith Relief, receiving a share of the funds generated by the race. This year's race is the first time a 20K component has been added.

The race will be held on Sunday, August 8, 2004. Both the 10K and 20K will start at 8:15 am at Market Station on Harrison Street in Leesburg, VA.

The registration fee for the 10K is $25; the fee for the 20K is $30.

For more information, visit the official race Web site or call YMCA Loudoun County at (703) 777-9622.