The sixth annual Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10k presented by POWERade set an event record today for the number of participants registered. As of 3 p.m., a total of 14,232 were registered, breaking last year's mark of 14,203. Combined with the 793 registered for the First Market Mile Kids Run, the total event field is now over 15,000 and should break last year's combined record of 15,204 by the end of the week. The 2005 Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10K, to be held on April 9, will close registration on March 31 or when the 18,000- registrant limit is reached, whichever comes first. The registration fee is $30 through March 15 (when the fee will increase $5) and online registrants save $3. The First Market Mile Kids Run costs $20 through March 31 ($17 online). Anyone wishing to mail in their registration for either event may download an entry form off the race website www.sportsbackers.org or pick one up at any Ukrop's Super Market.

Dash for the Cash entry deadline approaching. Next Tuesday, March 15, marks the entry deadline for anyone wishing to be eligible to take part in the Clear Channel Dash for the Cash contest, in which one lucky participant in the Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10k on April 9 will be given a head start to race against the rest of the field for $2,500.The contest will draw one random winner from among everyone who has registered by the 15th. 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.

Race Director receives honors. Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10k race director Tracey Russell was recently recognized as a runner up for the MarathonFoto/Road Race Management 2004 Race Director of the Year Award. Presented by Running Times magazine, the award is made annually to recognize and promote excellence in race directing.Last month, Tracey was elected Secretary of the Board of Directors of Running USA at the organization's annual meeting. The non-profit organization is dedicated to improving the status of road running and raising its awareness among the public and corporate America and supporting and developing American world-class stars. Founded in March 1999 with USA Track & Field, its membership - over 140 strong - includes major U.S. road races, running organizations, members of the athletic industry, athlete legends and media. Tracey's term is for one year.

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