In an area tradition that extends over each of the past eleven years, the Van Metre Companies have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for Children's Hospital through their sponsorship of the 5 Mile Run For Children's Hospital. Held at Broadlands, the best-selling Loudoun County planned community just off the Dulles Greenway in Ashburn, Virginia, this event draws hundreds of Van Metre business associates and members of the general public who wish to combine a day of fitness, fun, and camaraderie with support for one of the very best causes in the national capital region.

The Kids Run For Fun and the One-Mile Fun Run/Walk start at 8:30 a.m. The 5 Mile Run starts at 8:35 a.m. Participants include serious runners, weekend and occasional joggers, walkers, and even strollers (for the One-Mile Fun Run/Walk only) of all skill levels.

Cash prizes will be presented to the first, second, and third place overall male and female finishers in the five-mile race. Additional prizes will be presented to the top two male and female runners in the following age groups: 19 and under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 and above. Also, every child 12 years of age and under who finishes the Kids Run For Fun will receive a commemorative gift.

The Van Metre Companies will host a post-race celebration for all runners, walkers, and strollers who participate in the 5 Mile Run, Kids Run For Fun, and One-Mile Fun Run/Walk. There will be refreshments, awards, and random prizes.

Registration fees to participate will be $20 for adults ($25 after October 3, 2003), and $5 per child 12 and under. On-site registration will available Friday, October 10, 2003 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.at the Broadlands Nature Center. Late registration and race packets for registrants will also be available race day at Hillside Park on Waxpool Road, from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

For full details about the Van Metre 5 Mile Run For Children's Hospital, including a convenient registration form, visit the Van Metre Web site. Select "Van Metre Companies" on the homepage and go to 5 Mile Run. Or you may call us at (703) 425-2600 x 254 and request an information packet. Or, visit the race Web site.

As one of the largest privately held and locally owned homebuilding, development, commercial real estate and property management companies, Van Metre "Sets The Standards" in everything it does, including the 5 Mile Run For Children's Hospital. At the first race in 1992, Van Metre raised $6,000. Last year, $180,000 was raised. The ambitious goal for this year is to raise $200,000 for Children's Hospital.