Let’s Go Rva!
Sports Backers fosters community through events, advocacy, and fitness, promoting a healthier, active lifestyle for all.
Get Moving With Our
Upcoming Events!
March 7, 2026
Virginia Credit Union River City Half & 5k
Richmond is gorgeous and this event shows it off like never before! The half and 5k courses are rich in architecture, lush foliage, river views, and more!
YMCA 10k Training Team
Our team of amazing coaches will be with you every step of the way to the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger finish line on April 18.
April 18, 2026
Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k
The Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger is RVA’s favorite spring tradition! Since 2000, people from around the Richmond region and beyond have gathered to share in the journey of crossing the 10k finish line.
April 18, 2026
Atlantic Union Bank 10K Mini
Race day isn’t just for you…it’s for your kids too! This one-mile run for kids 4-12 is sure to be the best intro to how fun running can be. Add some mascots, a shirt, and finisher medal and you’ve got the perfect Saturday! Make the #ukrops10k a family affair!
Building a Healthier Community
Fitness Warriors
We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live an active lifestyle. Regardless of your neighborhood, income, or cultural background—being active is important to your overall health & well-being.
Bike Walk RVA
Bike Walk RVA, a Sports Backers program, advocates for safe, connected spaces to bike and walk for all ages and abilities. From the transformative Fall Line trail to neighborhood traffic calming and protected bike lanes, we empower advocates to shape a built environment that makes active transportation accessible and desirable for everyone.
Kids on the Move
Fitness should be FUN, and that’s why we’ve created an action-packed program designed specifically for kids. From creative exercises to running across a finish line, Kids On The Move makes staying active an adventure! Through a variety of program initiatives, children across the region make friends, build confidence, and learn healthy habits that will follow them through life.
FALL LIne
The Fall Line will be a transformational 43-mile long, north-south trail spine for our region’s active transportation network. It will connect seven localities in Central Virginia: Ashland, Hanover, Henrico, Richmond, Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, and Petersburg.
Active RVA
The Active RVA Certification and Awards program recognizes the Richmond region’s exceptional employers and schools that are implementing innovative programs to promote physical activity. Hundreds of organizations have earned Active RVA Certification for their embrace of active living.
Volunteer
There are 8,000 people annually who volunteer to make Sports Backers and its events and programs the successes they are.
Donate
With your support, we can make this region a more attractive and vibrant place to live where safe opportunities to walk, run, bike, swim, or workout abound and where access to these activities are available to all.
Latest News & Updates
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episode 111 – let’s defrost
episode 111 – let’s defrost Coming off a week of ice and cold temps, we’re ready to warm you up with spring events! Get a sneak peek at 10k Reveal Day, The People’s Finisher giveaway, the start of 10k Training Team…and sign up for Virginia Credit Union River City Half & River City 5k before…
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episode 110 – welcoming ryan to sports backers!
episode 110 – welcoming ryan to Sports backers! We have a new Development Manager, Ryan McCracken! Ryan started in January, but we’ve seen him before. He won the inaugural Virginia Credit Union River City Half and he placed third at this year’s Allianz Richmond Marathon. Hear more about his love of running, passion for donuts,…
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Episode 109 – come crush 10ktt with the church hill crushers
episode 109 – come crush 10ktt with the church hill crushers The YMCA 10k Training Team for the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k kicks off on February 7. Nan & Kam chat with Louise Lockett-Gordon about her 10 years coaching at the Church Hill location. Find your new training family and sign up today!
It’s Here! Sports Backers New Office & Active Living Hub
Located on the Fall Line trail, Sports Backers’ new headquarters and Active Living Hub is a vibrant center for community engagement and active living.