‘Best race I’ve done by far’: Richmond Marathon, Half-Marathon runners say they’ll run RVA again

Going for gold, over 21,000 runners filled the River City streets Saturday morning for this year’s Allianz Richmond Marathon, CarMax Half Marathon and VCU Health Richmond 8K. Preparations and early mornings for training did not deter the thousands of runners navigating through downtown Richmond and beyond on Saturday, Nov. 15. 8News spoke to some racegoers, who were drinking up the excitement of such a big race day.

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Allianz Richmond Marathon Celebrates Historic Sellout and Largest Field in Event’s 48-Year History

The 48th running of the Allianz Richmond Marathon marked a highlight year, welcoming the largest participant field in the event’s history. More than 21,000 runners took part across the Allianz Richmond Marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and VCU Health Richmond 8k, each distance reaching full capacity well in advance of race day.

Runners fuel up with carb-loading tradition ahead of Allianz Richmond Marathon

America’s Friendliest Marathon is returning to the River City this weekend—bringing thousands of runners to Richmond for the 48th annual Allianz Richmond Marathon. But before the big day, many of those athletes are taking part in a beloved (and delicious) pre-race ritual: carb-loading at Joe’s Inn in the Fan.

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Virginia PE teacher raises hundreds for Kids on the Move, inspires young runners

Students at Pocahontas Elementary School in Powhatan County are lacing up their sneakers for more than just exercise. The school's run club is teaching kids about fitness, friendship and giving back to their community.

VCU Emergency Response team ready to keep runners safe at Richmond Marathon

From start to finish, America’s Friendliest Marathon is fully equipped to care for athletes — no matter what race day brings. As thousands of runners take on 26.2 miles through the city, VCU Health and local first responders will be stationed along the course, ready to respond to anything from minor injuries to medical emergencies.

‘Game Changers’ redefine the pace of the running industry

This year’s Richmond Marathon isn’t just about miles—it’s about movement. A movement led by women changing the face and the pace of the running industry. The women behind Game Changers aren’t just talking the talk—they’re running the run. The national program provides training, resources, and funding to help more people of color become certified run coaches, breaking barriers and creating new opportunities in a sport where representation has long lagged behind.

Veterans Group Honors Fallen Military Through Running Community

A community of military veterans, their families and friends will gather at the Richmond Marathon to honor fallen service members through running and remembrance. Wear blue: run to remember will hold a Circle of Remembrance at 6:30 a.m. on race day at the intersection of North 4th and East Broad streets, between where the Richmond Marathon and half marathon are set to start.

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Local designer creates meaningful medal for 2025 Richmond Marathon finishers

With the Richmond Marathon just days away, 8News sat down with the local designer who dreamed up this year’s finisher medal to learn more about how it embodies the energy, history and heart of this beloved River City tradition.

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Richmond woman turns 50 this weekend. She's celebrating by running her first marathon.

Richmond woman Christina Mayhugh is turning 50 on Saturday and she's celebrating in a way that only 1% of the population does: by running her first marathon.

Veteran to run Richmond Marathon running after losing sight: 'Get up. Get out. Do it.'

After spending two years on tour in Afghanistan with the Army, Matthew Reed started to lose his vision. For a while it felt like he couldn't do the same activities he loved, until he started working with Sportable and focusing on all the things he could still accomplish. He's running the full marathon this Saturday.

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On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 101 - DRC is Ready To Bring It!

District Running Collective is bringing a group from DC to run Richmond, and to be part of the infamous Allianz Richmond Marathon Community Spirit Group stop with We Off The Couch and November Project. See what's in store with DJ Matt and Stephanie!

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Allianz Richmond Marathon Kicks Off Historic Marathon Week

The 2025 Allianz Richmond Marathon is set to make history, with all three distances—the full marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and VCU Health Richmond 8k completely sold out. More than 21,000 runners from all 50 states and 24 countries will take to the streets of Richmond on Saturday, November 15, marking the largest field in event history.

On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 100 - It's Almost Time for 26.2

This is maybe the biggest podcast in On The Move history because it's our 100th episode! Nan & Kam sit down with Meghan Keogh, Race Director of the Allianz Richmond Marathon, to talk all things race week and what you can look forward to when you run Richmond!

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On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 99 - Community Spirit Contest Secrets

The Allianz Richmond Marathon is known for being 'America's Friendliest' and a huge part of that is our Community Spirit Groups. Lance Brown, from November Project, has been a part of the famous cheer squad located two miles from the finish for the last few years. They've taken the winning title multiple times, so he has the insight your group needs to make this year wilder than ever!

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Historic First: Allianz Richmond Marathon Sells Out All Three Races

For the first time in its 48-year history, the Allianz Richmond Marathon race weekend has completely sold out across all three distances — the marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and the VCU Health Richmond 8k. A total of 21,200 runners and walkers will take to the streets in downtown Richmond on Saturday, November 15, marking a milestone moment for “America’s Friendliest Marathon.”

On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 98 - Team H20 is Ready To Go!

With the Allianz Richmond Marathon coming up in a few weeks we sat down with the lead volunteers behind the water stops. Jay, JM, and Marci manage all the stops along all three courses, and work with the hundreds of volunteers that make race day possible. Warning - listening may make you want to volunteer!

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Best Bets for Boston Marathon Qualifying Races

Boston hopefuls will be thrilled to learn that “America’s Friendliest Marathon” is also one of its fastest. Richmond’s rolling course blends scenery with history, passing through diverse neighborhoods and along the James River in the full flush of fall. And while the fast course with its downhill riverfront finish is a perennial BQ favorite, the ultimate compliment may be that Richmond “feels like a much larger event than it really is” thanks to enthusiastic volunteers and outstanding community support, not to mention several Party Zones and frequent live music.

On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 92 - Bethany Britz is Helping Kids Move

Bethany Britz has been a Kids On The Move fitness coach with her Kids on the Move 804 club. Her passion for helping led her to fundraising for a charity entry into the Allianz Richmond Marathon. She's already surpassed her goal and we can't wait to see her crush her race.

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CarMax Richmond Half Marathon Sells Out Ahead of November race day

The CarMax Richmond Half Marathon has reached its 10,000-participant capacity, officially selling out nearly 10 weeks before runners hit the streets on Saturday, November 15.

On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 91 - Marathon Madness with Meghan Keogh

As you may have seen, the Allianz Richmond Marathon is officially sold out! With the Wait List and the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon quickly filling, Nan & Kam chatted with Meghan Keogh, the new Race Director for the event. Get excited for November!

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Allianz Richmond Marathon Sells Out for Second Straight Year Ahead of Race Day

Last year, the marathon reached capacity in early November, just days before the event. Organizers had predicted a 2025 sellout after announcing record-breaking registration trends earlier this summer, and with the 6,200-participant cap now reached months in advance, attention turns to the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, which is also expected to sell out ahead of race day, and the VCU Health Richmond 8k, which is on pace to have a record-breaking year.

“Top shelf experience for people”: Allianz Richmond Marathon hits capacity earlier than ever

The Allianz Richmond Marathon sold out earlier than ever before this year, which shows the popularity of the race and a growing running scene in the River City.

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Allianz Richmond Marathon Sells Out for Second Straight Year Ahead of Race Day

For the second year in a row, the Allianz Richmond Marathon has officially sold out—this time well ahead of race day--further underscoring its reputation as America’s Friendliest Marathon and as a premier running event. The 48th running takes place on Saturday, November 15, alongside the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon and the VCU Health Richmond 8k.

Allianz Richmond Marathon Registration Numbers Pacing Ahead of 2024 Event

Last year, the Allianz Richmond Marathon had a record-breaking year, with 21,309 runners participating across all three race distances. This year, registration numbers are already outpacing 2024, and with an important price increase set for July 1, organizers are anticipating a second consecutive sell-out.

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Joachim: A cardiac arrest. A guardian angel. A Richmond Marathon miracle on Broad Street.

Running has saved Christopher David’s life twice — and killed him once. The sport has also saved the life of Richmond native Tiffany Fleming Johnson, a nurse in a cardiac unit at VCU Health and a fitness warrior marathon training coach with Sports Backers.

On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 55 - Winners Circle Chat with Rob Mazzanti

Nan & Kam sit down with the winner of the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon, and Richmond local, Rob Mazzanti. Rob gives the inside scoop on what it's like to be at the front of the pack, his mindset, training, and favorite race day memories. Did we mention he only started running two years ago?

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On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 54 - Marathon BTS

Nan & Kam recap the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon and tell you what they were up to behind the scenes! Hear about the best signs, intense golf cart missions, and more. Plus, we highlight all that's to come in the spring season!

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On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 53 - What Running Did For Me

Running can mean so many things to so many different individuals. The rise of Richmond run clubs has allowed for the creation of meaningful safe spaces for everyone to accomplish their goals. Last week, the Health & Fitness Expo of the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon featured a live panel on 'What Running Did For Me' moderated by Lindsey Hein, and featuring Anthony Clary of We Off The Couch, Suellen Henneberry of Sportable, Kleigh Koupal of Effect Run Club, and Josh Leidy of 804 Run Club. Check out all they had to say about their respective clubs, running journeys, and advice for marathon runners!

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Thousands run in America's Friendliest Marathon

Nearly 21,000 people laced up their running shoes for the event on Saturday morning.

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Richmonder Mazzanti wins 47th Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon

Arms raised in triumph, Richmonder Robert Mazzanti won the 47th Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon, as a record group of runners raced through the streets of the city.

87-year-old runner finishes historic Richmond Marathon

Saturday marked the 47th Richmond Marathon. It was a record-breaking year with nearly 21,000 runners in the 8K, half-marathon and marathon. The oldest runner, at 87 years old, ran all 26.2 miles with his family by his side. In his third marathon, Doctor Rao Yalamanchili finished in just under seven-and-a-half hours.

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Cardiac arrest survivor completes 2024 Richmond Marathon strong

A Richmond man has conquered the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon after enduring a frightening health emergency during last years race.

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Meet the man behind this year’s Richmond Marathon medal design

Sports Backers designer Dion Ellis spoke to 8News about his vision for creating this year’s Richmond Marathon medals.

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Boston natives run Richmond Marathon to support friend's cancer battle: ‘I am eternally grateful’

Among the veteran runners and newcomers hitting the road when the Richmond Marathon kicks off Saturday morning will be two Boston natives running the race for the first time.

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How two Richmond runners ran into each other's hearts

One Richmond couple is sharing their unique love story, which began when they literally ran into each other. Their love for running just happened to be the one thing that brought them together.

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'Foster community:' Richmond named a runner-friendly city

Virginia‘s for lovers, but Richmond’s for runners. For the past few years, the River City has embraced its runners, and two years ago, it was designated a " runner-friendly city.”

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On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 52 - The Power of Pickle Juice with Filip Keuppens

It's National Pickle Day, and we thought what better way to celebrate than with the Vice President of The Pickle Juice Company, Filip Keuppens. The Pickle Juice Company provides all of our pickle juice for the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon. We provide a lot of pickle puns, and learn some truly jaw dropping facts about the creation of pickle juice.

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Richmond Marathon hits milestone, reaches capacity

The 2024 Richmond Marathon, half marathon and 8K have set an all-time registration record. All three races have had 20,939 people sign up as of 4 p.m. Wednesday. The previous record was 20,586 runners in 2014. In addition to the record, the full marathon and half marathon are sold out, hitting their caps of 6,200 and 10,000 runners respectively.

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On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 51 - All You Need To Know About The Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon

We've got Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon Race Director, Megan Schultz in the studio to answer all of your burning questions about race weekend! We cover everything from what time you should get to the start, to what you can expect on the menu at our junk food stops!

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First female Richmond Marathon announcer gives advice to runners before race day

The Richmond Marathon’s first-ever female announcer, who is an experienced marathoner herself, spoke to 8News to give advice to runners before race day. Lindsey Hein hosts a podcast called “I’ll Have Another,” which features laid-back conversations with members from the running community. In 2023, she became the first female announcer for the Richmond Marathon.

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Richmond Marathon put on by majority female staff

The Richmond Marathon is just days away, and it would not be possible without the team at Sports Backers. And it’s women who are doing a lot of the heavy lifting. The Richmond-based nonprofit now has a majority of female staff, and most of its leadership positions are held by women.

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His heart stopped during last year's Richmond Marathon. This weekend, he'll run it again.

David Griffin lined up at the 2023 Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon looking for a PR. Instead he collapsed around mile 13 and suffered a cardiac arrest. After a year of focusing on recovery, David has made a miraculous turnaround and will be running the 2024 marathon, celebrating just how far he's come.

Run clubs growing ahead of Richmond Marathon

Some people find running or training for a race alone tricky. Luckily, the River City is full of run clubs that meet almost every day of the week. In the last couple of years, the number of people lacing up their shoes and going the extra mile has continued to grow.

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47th Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon

PR and Communications Manager, Nan Callahan, stops by NBC12 to talk all things Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon. Hear about all the new and exciting things happening this year that you can look forward to on race day!

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On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 49 - Lindsey Hein Returns to Richmond

We're excited to have podcast host and run-fluencer, Lindsey Hein, returning for her second year at the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon. Last year Lindsey made history as our first female announcer. This year she's back on the mic, and you can find her moderating a live panel titled 'What Running Did For Me' with some big names in the Richmond running scene. Other than than you can find her at Stella's Market, because she's obsessed.

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Run America's Friendliest Marathon AND Qualifying For Boston

Did you know the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon is a top Boston Qualifier? Our relatively flat course and downhill finish make us the perfect race to make your BQ dreams a reality! Let us be a stop on your bucket list journey!

Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon welcomes wear blue: run to remember, Lindsey Hein, Another Mother, and more!

The Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon is set to celebrate its 47th year on November 16, 2024. Known as “America’s Friendliest Marathon,” this event has become a beloved tradition not only for the thousands of runners who have spent months preparing, but also for the entire Richmond community. To build on the excitement of race weekend, race organizers have planned a series of special activities and programming designed to elevate the race weekend experience.

On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 48 - Sportable Athlete Sue Henneberry Trains for Her First Marathon

There's nothing quite like training for your first full marathon! Sue Henneberry is a an adaptive athlete with Sportable who completed her first half marathon last year, and quickly decided a full marathon was her next move. She's training with Sports Backers Marathon Training Team and does a variety of sports to cross-train.

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On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 45 - Keeping the Pace with Karen McCarthy and Steven Kim

The Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon tries to cater to all our participants and a huge part of that is our pace teams! This week Nan & Kam talk with Karen McCarthy, the pace team coordinator, and Steven Kim, who paced the race last year. Hear all about the mindset of a pacer, how you can join a team, and how you can volunteer to make someone's race day goals come true!

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On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 34 - A Chat with Elliott Rose

If you're a part of the running scene in Richmond chances are you've heard of Elliott, or you've seen him on a run, at a race, or in our marketing material! He's been a part of Sports Backers Marathon Training Team for over 20 years and is extremely active in all things running. We talk about how he discovered his love of running in his 40s and more!

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On The Move with Nan & Kam Episode 25 - It's MTT Season! Coach Carrie Parker Gives Us the Scoop on All Things Training

Thinking about running Richmond this November? Need to up your miles for a fall race? We chat with the head coach of Sports Backers Marathon Training Team, Carrie Parker. Learn more about the program and find out what makes MTT so beloved!

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Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon Announces New Partnerships and Race Week Highlights

The Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon celebrates its 46th running on November 11. While race day is seen as the catalyst of all the excitement, this year participants will have the chance to interact with multiple podcasters and influencers in the running community across various platforms leading up to race weekend and beyond.

Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon Start Times to Change

Start times for the three distances on November 11 have been updated! In a continued effort to provide the best participant experience possible, Sports Backers, the event organizer, has made the decision to shuffle the race start times.

Doud, Chargois claim first place in the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon

The 45th running of marathon included CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, VCU Health Richmond 8k. Over 16,000 runners registered to take part in all three races combined, and tens of thousands more spectators lined the streets to cheer on runners as they made their way to the riverfront finish in downtown Richmond.

25 years of the Richmond Marathon, with the data to back it up

Rob Waddell, a long-time Richmond resident who recently relocated to Virginia Beach, will be running Richmond for the 25th consecutive time in this year’s Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon.

Sports Backers, Allianz Partners announce new partnership for Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon

Sports Backers and Allianz Partners celebrated the kickoff of the new partnership with an event logo unveiling at the marathon finish line on 5th Street and Tredegar Street that featured representatives of both organizations as well as members of the Richmond running community.

Richmond Marathon Results: Keira D'Amato Sets New 8k Course Record

The 2021 VCU Health Richmond Marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and Allianz Partners 8k celebrated a return to the traditional event format in downtown Richmond with a course record in the first race of the day.

VCU Health Richmond Marathon to hold race expo in open-air format

Walmart Health & Fitness Expo takes place Nov. 11 and Nov. 12 at the Richmond Raceway track.

VCU Health Richmond Marathon Returns Downtown in 2021

The VCU Health Richmond Marathon will take place in its traditional one-day, in-person format in downtown Richmond on November 13.

CarMax to sponsor signature hometown race

Sports Backers announces a new partnership with CarMax, making the Richmond-based retailer of used cars the title sponsor of the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon.

Richmond Marathon Completes Successful 16-Day Stint

The 2020 Richmond Marathon wrapped up 16 days of running in Dorey Park and the Virginia Capital Trail on November 22, with over 5,500 registered participants taking advantage of the in-person and virtual options offered by Sports Backers, the event organizers.

Run Richmond for a Safe, 'Tailor-Made Marathon' Experience in 2020

The event will feature a certified course, water bottle refill stations, mile markers, and chip timing.

Richmond Marathon Announces New Timing Solution

The 2020 Richmond Marathon is now partnering with RunSignup to give participants a groundbreaking timing solution that will provide official results on a USA Track & Field (USATF) certified course.

Richmond Marathon to provide measured course at Dorey Park

Course to also include distances for the Richmond Half Marathon and Allianz Partners 8k.

We're a top Boston qualifying race

The VCU Health Richmond Marathon is one of the top 25 qualifying races for the Boston Marathon!

Richmond Marathon named one of top 15 fall marathons in U.S.

The results are in and we are proud to be voted one of the best marathons in the country by Bib Rave!

Richmond Marathon voted among top 20 in U.S.

VCU Health has been affiliated with the event since 2016 and begins title sponsorship with the 2019 race.

Richmond called a best bet fall race to BQ

These events feature top-notch production in locations where cooler weather lends itself to speedy finish times.

Richmond one of 10 best cities for runners to visit

From cities that are home to iconic running moments to top-ranked park systems, this list has something for every runner.

Author Christopher McDougall to appear at race expo

Christopher McDougall, the best-selling author of ‘Born to Run,’ will visit the race expo on Friday, November 15.