Virginia credit union river city half & river city 5k returns for third year with new partnerships and rally for river city contest

new spirit contest invites richmond to bring the hype and cheer on runners

RICHMOND – Sports Backers’ newest half marathon has quickly earned a reputation for its scenic James River views and memorable course. Featuring sweeping river vistas and a few challenging climbs, the Virginia Credit Union River City Half and River City 5k delivers a race experience that highlights the natural beauty of Richmond. Now in its third year, Sports Backers is excited to elevate the race-day experience even further. As participation continues to grow, the Virginia Credit Union River City Half is introducing new elements designed to boost runner motivation and spectator energy, cementing its place as a can’t-miss Richmond running experience that celebrates both the James River and the Richmond community.

New this year is the Rally for River City Contest, a spirited initiative that invites neighborhoods, families, and community groups to turn sections of the course into high-energy cheer zones. The event also welcomes WRIC ABC 8 as its official media partner, marking the station’s first-ever sponsorship of a Sports Backers event.

Sports Backers events are fueled by Richmond’s unmatched community spirit— the same spirit that earned the region its Runner Friendly Community designation and helped the Allianz Richmond Marathon become known nationwide as “America’s Friendliest Marathon.” Spectators across the city have built a tradition of showing up big, lining the streets at races like the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10K presented by Kroger with handmade signs, high-energy music, and constant encouragement. The Rally for River City Contest brings that hallmark Richmond enthusiasm to the Virginia Credit Union River City Half, inviting neighborhoods along the course to motivate runners right when they need it most. As the newest annual event continues to grow, Sports Backers hopes to see Richmond’s trademark crowd support shine once again, with front lawns, porches, and sidewalks alive with the creativity, pride, and community connection that define running in RVA.

“Over the last three years I’ve had the privilege of watching the Virginia Credit Union River City Half and River City 5K grow into something truly special,” said Molly Johnson, Race Director. “This course is challenging, beautiful, and uniquely Richmond, and the community support makes all the difference. Introducing the Rally for River City Contest is a natural next step. When runners hear music, see familiar faces, and feel that energy on the hills, it changes the entire experience. This contest gives the community a chance to be part of that magic.”

Adding to the excitement, WRIC ABC 8 will serve as the event’s official media partner. The collaboration will include on-course activations, motivational signage from WRIC ABC 8, on-air personalities serving as race-day emcees, and pre-race tv coverage and live cut-ins on race day to bring the event to viewers across the region. Many members of the WRIC ABC 8 team will also take part in the half and 5k.

The Virginia Credit Union River City Half and River City 5k also continues its strong commitment to giving back. For the past two years, the event has highlighted local nonprofits, allowing participants to donate or fundraise during registration. This year marks a record level of engagement, with 15 nonprofit partners joining the race. Participating organizations will have opportunities to engage runners either along the course or at the finish line.

This year’s nonprofit partners include Sports Backers, the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Richmond Chapter, the Brain Injury Association, CARITAS, Friendship Circle, Greater Richmond Fit4Kids, Greater Richmond SCAN, Girls on the Run of Greater Richmond, the James River Association, Little Hands Virginia, MedRVA Foundation, Shood, SOAR365, Sportable, and the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation.

Community groups interested in participating in the Rally for River City Contest must register by February 14. Four groups will win cash prizes, including one prize that is reserved for the best on-course charity partner. Registered groups can receive up to $150 in reimbursement for party supplies. More information is available at https://www.sportsbackers.org/event/rivercityhalf/rally-for-river-city-contest/, and questions may be directed to Kristen Eichert at [email protected].

The Virginia Credit Union River City Half takes place on March 7, with the next price increase scheduled for February 4. Registration details can be found at https://www.sportsbackers.org/event/rivercityhalf/.