One lucky participant in the Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10K on April 9th will be given a head start to race against the rest of the field of 18,000 participants in the Clear Channel Dash for the Cash, the Sports Backers announced today.

The contest will draw one random winner from among everyone who has registered by March 15. That person will be given a pre- determined head start on the course based on their ability. When the race begins at 8:30 a.m., the contestant will try to out-run the rest of the field to the finish line. The person who crosses the finish line first will win the $2,500 Clear Channel Dash for the Cash prize. Full contest rules are available at www.sportsbackers.org.

"This is a contest that we think will add even more excitement to the race," said race director Tracey Russell. "While it's a foregone conclusion that a small group of elite athletes have a chance to win the race, the Clear Channel Dash for the Cash gives one lucky participant the opportunity to cross the finish line first and grab the $2,500 bonus. And, the best thing about our out-and-back course is that most of the 18,000 other participants will be running up one side of Monument Avenue cheering on our contestant as he or she is running the other way trying to hold off the elite athletes to the finish line."

The 2005 Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10k will accept 18,000 participants, up from 14,000 last year. As of March 1, over 13,000 have already signed up. Registration is $30 through March 15 and online registrants www.sportsbackers.org save $3. In addition, registration for the First Market Mile Kids Run (for ages 6-12) is $20 through March 15 ($12 online). Anyone wishing to mail in their registration for either event may download an entry form off the website or pick one up at any Ukrop's Super Market.

For more Information: Richmond Sports Backers
100 Avenue of Champions, Suite 300
Richmond, VA 23230
Phone 804-285-9495
Fax 804-285-3132
E-Mail