Event

The National Capital 20 Miler is the DC area’s premier fall marathon tune-up race. Runners will have access to a flat and fast out-and-back course on the C&O Towpath with multiple water stations along the way. Runners also have the option to register for the Janet Braunstein 5 Miler, which also takes place on the Towpath. Register now to guarantee your race hoodie!

Both events start on the Towpath by the North Parking Lot at Carderock Recreation Area.


Event

Course: A scenic out-and-back fall 5K route along Beach Drive.

The Experience: Join us for a premier morning of racing featuring chipped timing, custom finisher medals, high-quality tech tees, and hassle-free packet pickup at Potomac River Running's Ballston store.


News

It doesn’t take long in the D.C. area to see a flyer for a 5K, a social media post about a group run or a specialty running store. There are dozens of local outlets for runners, but the specialty running store industry is facing a changing landscape, as online competitors siphon business and customers adopt new shopping habits.

Potomac River Running is one of many stores that has felt the pinch. Owner Ray Pugsley said over the last five years, sales have been down 15 to 20 percent. He attributes some of that decline to a shift in consumer habits: more people are turning to online and big-box retailers for lower prices and convenience.