Ashland 5k Sells Out for Third Straight Year, Race Takes Place August 23

Summer’s 5k sells out again

ASHLAND, VA – The Ashland 5k has officially sold out for the third year in a row, reaffirming its status as one of the region’s most charming and beloved summer races. This year, 375 participants will take on the 5k distance—up from 340 last year. Held each August in tandem with the Ashland Half Marathon, the events have rightfully earned the nickname: “Summer’s Hottest Half & 5k!”

While Richmond’s signature events—like the Allianz Richmond Marathon and the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger—draw tens of thousands of participants, the Ashland race offers something more intimate: a close-knit community vibe in a storybook setting. It’s a race where friendly faces, personal touches, and front-porch hospitality take center stage.

Small town charm shines

Set in the colorful town of Ashland, Virginia, the course winds through its adorable downtown, past historic homes, across the beautiful Randolph-Macon College campus, and alongside the town’s iconic passing trains—creating a backdrop that’s both unique and memorable.

“We’re thrilled to welcome runners back to Ashland each year,” said Kelly Franke, Marketing and Events Coordinator for the Town of Ashland. “This event brings such great energy to our community—we love seeing our streets filled with smiling faces, cheering neighbors, and the sound of train whistles in the background. It’s a wonderful way to showcase everything that makes Ashland unique, and we’re proud to be part of it.”

Sports Backers is proud to partner with Richmond Road Runners to host the event, and proceeds support Sports Backers’ Kids on the Move program, which helps get area youth moving and engaged in active lifestyles.

“This event has truly taken on a life of its own,” said Mara George, Race Director for the Ashland Half & 5k. “It’s not just about running—it’s about the feeling you get when you’re racing through a town that has completely embraced the event. Ashland delivers a race-day experience that’s both unique and deeply personal. We’re honored to see it resonate so strongly with runners year after year, and it’s incredibly rewarding to watch the Ashland 5k continue to grow, thrive, and sell out.”

Now that the 5k has reached capacity, registration for that distance has closed and a Waiting List will open. Waiting List members will become notified of open spots as they become available. Once notified, you will have 24 hours to claim your spot and complete registration. The Waiting List will only be available through August 10 (while deferrals are still allowed).

registration

Additionally, a limited number of Charity Entries will be offered for $100. Charity entries will support Kids on the Move, our official event charity. Please email [email protected] if you’re interested in purchasing a charity entry.

Registration for the Ashland Half is still open at www.sportsbackers.org. Race day details for both the Half and 5k can also be found there.