Race Guide 2023

Welcome to Lynchburg, Virginia. On behalf of Moore & Giles’ 120 employees and all the citizens of Lynchburg, we extend our warm wishes and hospitality to all our runners, walkers, and visitors for the 49th running of the Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler. We hope you enjoy your stay in what Southern Living magazine recently named one of the “South’s Best Cities on the Rise” in 2022. We couldn’t agree more!
The Virginia 10 Miler is a cornerstone event here in Lynchburg and offers one of the most challenging road races in the country. It is a symbol of our community’s commitment to health and wellness, and a shining example of what makes our city so beloved. We’re honored to have you here today for this historic race — thank you for joining us!
We also extend special thanks to the Lynchburg Road Runners Club, to our sponsors, and to the many volunteers who make this race possible. Have a great race — we’re all rooting for you!
Thank you,
Sackett Wood, CEO, Moore & GilesOn behalf of the Lynchburg Road Runners Club, and our organizing committee, a heartfelt “congratulations” to each of you that have been preparing to cross our finish line. It is an honor to welcome you to the 49th Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler. This event has been more than 50 years in the making!
Our appreciation for our dozens of sponsors, hundreds of volunteers, and the Lynchburg community is endless. Their energy and passion for what the Virginia 10 Miler represents is contagious. I would also like to recognize the continued support and professionalism of the various departments and employees of the City of Lynchburg. Thank you!
These past months, hundreds have been working towards a goal each weekend, on a course that will greet thousands on race day. Your efforts and many miles have not gone unnoticed. YOU inspire so many and make each race day special. Thank you!
I look forward to celebrating your accomplishments on Saturday. I know you will have an amazing day and a story to tell. We are cheering for you and wish each of you the very best!
Sincerely,
Jeff Fedorko, Race DirectorTHE MOORE & GILES VIRGINIA 10 MILER
Saturday, September 30 • 8 a.m.
Start/Finish: E.C. Glass High School (2111 Memorial Ave.)
Participants of The Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler don’t just run a road race; they join a community of runners and spectators who pride themselves on its treasured history. Embarking on its 49th year, the race continues to attract thousands of individuals from around the globe, as they come to partake in the beauty of Virginia through this unique rolling, USATF certified 10 mile course.
#VA10MILER
THE VIRGINIA 4+ MILER PRESENTED BY BANK OF THE JAMES
Saturday, September 30 • 8 a.m.
Start/Finish: E.C. Glass High School (2111 Memorial Ave.)
Since 1999, The Virginia 4+ Miler runners have enjoyed the beauty and thrill of the first 4 miles of the 10 miler course. This year, runners will celebrate the 24th year of what is becoming our most popular event. Participants will start and finish at the same location as the historic Virginia 10 Miler, experiencing the Langhorne Bridge trail extension and challenge themselves up Farm Basket Hill alongside 10 Miler finishers.
#VA4MILER
THE VIRGINIA 4+ MILE WALK PRESENTED BY CENTRA
Saturday, September 30 • 8:05 a.m.
Start/Finish: E.C. Glass High School (2111 Memorial Ave.)
The Virginia 4+ Mile Walk is characterized by its passionate and energetic participants. We have been overjoyed that the popularity of this event has increased each year since its inauguration in 2010. Participants will start and finish at the same location as the historic Virginia 10 Miler, experiencing the Langhorne Bridge trail extension and challenge themselves up Farm Basket Hill alongside 10 Miler finishers.
#VA4WALK
The Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler Race Guide and promotional materials are created by Here’s To Creative. Here’s To Creative is a design, print and marketing company focusing on brand identity, corporate marketing, wedding packages, and other everyday design needs. Our design brings meaning and purpose to your project.
The historic Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler celebrates its 49th running on Saturday, September 30, 2023. Our community will host participants from more than 5 countries and 22 states. Our weekend of events includes the 10 Miler, 4+ Miler, 4+ Mile Walk, and Amazing Mile Children’s Run.
Participants are encouraged to pick up their race packets on Thursday to avoid congestion on Friday and race morning.
All participants may register and/or pick up race packets for any of our events on the following dates and times:
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
All events
3 - 7 p.m. • Bella Vista Hotel & Suites
2900 Chandlers Mountain Road, Lynchburg, VA 24502
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
Virginia 10 Miler, 4+ Miler, 4+ Mile Walk
3 - 7 p.m. • Bella Vista Hotel & Suites
2900 Chandlers Mountain Road, Lynchburg, VA 24502
Amazing Mile Children’s Run
4:30 - 5:45 p.m. • Amazement Square
27 9th Street, Lynchburg, VA 24504
Virginia 10 Miler, 4+ Miler, 4+ Mile Walk
6:30 a.m. - 7:15 a.m. • E.C. Glass High School
2111 Memorial Ave., Lynchburg, VA 24501
Due to the size and density of this event, and for the safety of our participants, baby backpacks (back or front) and strollers are prohibited. The inclusion of strollers in races increases the potential for injury to race participants and children.
The use of personal music devices is strongly discouraged at this event. To enjoy all that our race has to offer and for the safety of all participants, our event encourages a headphone-free environment during the running of all events. Runner safety is a priority for our event.
Scan the unique QR code on your bib number after you finish to access your race result and photos.
Assisted participant start will be separate from the general field at 7:50 a.m. Be mindful that there will be assisted participants in strollers or modified wheelchairs on the course being pushed by a volunteer athlete. Please cheer them on and welcome them as they are an important part of our event.
Bib numbers will be assigned at packet pickup. Please wear your number on the front of your shirt or shorts and have it visible throughout the event to ensure an accurate finish time and for picture identification.
Presented by Bank of the James
Participants can leave their valuables at the Participant Bag Drop area located on the lawn of E.C. Glass High School, near the auditorium steps. Your race number is your receipt. You must present your race number to pick up your bag after your race.
Presented by Virginia Army National Guard
Be the first to know your pace and time on race day! Fans from around the world can receive notification of participant splits and results via text message and email. In addition, visit the event website for “live” splits and results as they happen.
Register for text/email results: VIRGINIATENMILER.COM/RACEDAY
• Official/certified results will be posted at virginiatenmiler.com/results
• Live results of top runners as they run the course will be available at virginiatenmiler.com/results
• Results will be shared with participants via text message, and email for those participants that registered for notification
Race results, splits, photos: VIRGINIATENMILER.COM/RESULTS
More than 30 athletes from 5 different countries
Open Men: Sub 55 for 10m (sub 33:11 for 10k)
Master Men: Sub 59 (sub 35:36 for 10k)
Grand Master: Sub 62 (sub 37:24 for 10k)
Open Women: Sub 60 for 10m (sub 36:12 for 10k)
Master Women: Sub 64 (sub 38:37 for 10k)
Grand Master Women: Sub 67 (sub 40:25 for 10k)
Rod Dixon • 46:50 (1981)
Monicah Ngige • 53:16 (2022)
2022 CHAMPIONS
Melkamu Wube • 47:48
Monicah Ngige • 53:16
ROAD CLOSURE SCHEDULE
Langhorne Rd. between Memorial Ave. & Murrell Rd. closes
Langhorne Rd. from Murrell Rd. to Rivermont Terrace
Rivermont Terrace from Langhorne Rd. to Rivermont Ave.
Cranehill Dr. from Langhorne Road to Heronhill Place closes
Rivermont Ave. from Rivermont Terrace to Riverside Park closes
Rivermont Ave. from Rivermont Terrace to Riverside Park opens
Rivermont Ave. and Cranehill Dr. reopens
Rivermont Terrace and Langhorne Rd. from Rivermont Ave. to Murrell Rd. reopens
Langhorne Rd. from Murrell Rd. to Memorial Ave. reopens
RESTROOMS
Portable restrooms are available at the start/finish line areas, Farm Basket (1.5/8.5m), Awareness Garden (2.75 mi, 4+ Mile course only), Woodridge Place (2.75/7.75m), Vasser Street (3.0/7.0m), and Riverside Park (4.5/5.5m).
WATER STOPS
Water and Gatorade will be available to runners and walkers approximately every 2 miles. Gatorade is the official hydration for the Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler.
SEE COURSE MAP ON PG. 13
The Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler is a Road Runners Club of America State 10 Mile Championship. Since 1958, the RRCA has awarded championship events through a competitive bidding process at the National, Regional, and State level to RRCA member clubs and events to promote the sport of distance running. The RRCA Championship Event Series is the largest grassroots organized running series in the U.S., attracting over 320,000 runners each year. The goal of the RRCA Championship Event Series is to shine a spotlight on well-run events and to award top performing runners.
The Lynchburg Road Runners Club began in 1973 with the primary goal of organizing the first Virginia 10 Miler in 1974. Fifty years later, the club holds stewardship of all Virginia 10 Miler events and assists the race management team with the organization and execution of all race logistics.
THESE EVENTS ARE FREE & OPEN TO ALL.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
INSPIRATION FROM OLYMPIAN JARED WARD
6 p.m. • University of Lynchburg
Sydnor Performance Hall, Schewel Hall
A presentation for high school and collegiate athletes and the communit y.
MORNING RUN WITH OLYMPIAN JARED WARD 7 - 8 a.m. • Riverside Runners, 2480 Rivermont Ave.
3 mile shake out run on Rivermont Avenue with Olympian Jared Ward. All are welcome.
DOWNTOWN FAMILY FESTIVAL
Presented by Lynchburg Regional Airport
4 - 7 p.m. • Amazement Square
Bring your family to our annual family festival downtown, part of the Amazing Mile celebration at Amazement Square. Face painting, food, and kid-friendly activities.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
FINISH LINE CELEBRATION
8:30 - 11 a.m. • E.C. Glass High School
Join thousands for post-event food, live music, and our special awards presentation.
VIRGINIA 10 MILER AFTER PARTY
3 - 6 p.m. • 3 Roads Brewing
Music, a food truck, tasty beverages, and age group awards make this event the perfect place to gather and have fun, post-race.
Place in your age group? Age group awards will be available for pickup at the After Party! (Those not picked up will be mailed within 3-4 weeks after the event.)
Welcome to the Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler, a Lynchburg tradition since 1974! You’re about to be part of something truly special—an unforgettable festival of events with cherished history.
The Virginia 10 Miler traces its origins back to a time when road racing opportunities were scarce, and races that did exist only attracted a couple hundred runners. Recognizing the need for a well-organized and talent-filled event, a group of courageous visionaries set out to bring world-class road racing to the streets of Lynchburg. In 1973, Rudy Straub, Bernie Smith, and others established the Lynchburg Road Runners Club (LRRC) with the sole purpose of creating a new kind of road race in The Hill City.
The race’s thought-filled planning and design garnished immediate high-praise from the race world. By its second year, the Virginia 10 Miler attracted the attention of Olympiccaliber athletes like Frank Shorter, Anne Audain, Bill Rogers, Jeff Galloway, and John Vitale. These legends battled it out, pushing their limits as they ascended the challenging Farm Basket Hill, and across the same exhilarating finish line used today.
A 10 mile tradition founded 50 years ago, continues, as thousands, eagerly challenge themselves on an iconic course with the same spirit and determination defined decades ago. The tradition of hosting elite athletes continues to this day, showcasing the enduring legacy of the Virginia 10 Miler.
Moore & Giles’ roots within the Lynchburg community make them an ideal partner for such a well-loved local event. Decades of financial support from Moore & Giles has recently culminated with Title Sponsorship. Their generosity continues to be an
extension of their love for the Lynchburg community.
The evolution of the Virginia 10 Miler is also marked by the introduction of additional events, transforming it into a weekend filled with opportunities for participants of all ages and paces. In 1999, the race expanded with the addition of the 4 Miler, offering a shorter distance for those seeking a different kind of challenge. This new event quickly gained popularity, attracting a wide range of participants. The 4-Mile Walk was introduced in 2010, catering to those who prefer a non-competitive yet active experience. In 2021, the 4-mile course was adjusted to cross the Blackwater Creek Trail bridge and return to EC Glass start/finish line – making the distance 4.3 miles. It was because of this that the walk and run names were adjusted to include the + sign!
The Virginia 10 Miler has always been a great event for families, but in 2007, the Amazing Mile Children’s Run was introduced, opening the door for all ages to run and experience the thrill of crossing the finish line. This addition, alongside the additions for the 4+ Miler and 4+ Mile Walk, have further solidified the sense of camaraderie and competition that characterizes the race weekend, providing something for everyone to enjoy.
The success of the Virginia 10 Miler weekend can be attributed to the warm and supportive nature of our city, the generosity of our sponsors, and the dedication of numerous non-profit organizations and community groups. Over 1,300 volunteers selflessly contribute their time and effort to ensure the smooth running of the event. It is the collective spirit and collaborative efforts of these individuals and organizations that make the Virginia 10 Miler a shining example of where Southern Hospitality meets the road.
“THE SUCCESS OF THE VIRGINIA 10 MILER WEEKEND CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO THE WARM AND SUPPORTIVE NATURE OF OUR CITY, THE GENEROSITY OF OUR SPONSORS, AND THE DEDICATION OF NUMEROUS NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS AND COMMUNITY GROUPS.”
The success of the Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler is only possible due to the generous support of our sponsors. These companies & organizations not only donate financially, but also contribute their time and energy.
GRAND MASTER SPONSORS
CHAMPIONSHIP SPONSORS
MASTER SPONSORS
MEDIA PARTNERS
Amazement Square is Central Virginia’s first multidisciplinary, hands-on children’s museum! Climb, slide and discover as you make your way through four floors of exciting, interactive exhibits, activities and programs.
The YMCA of Central Virginia is committed to strengthening community by empowering young people, improving the health and well-being of people of all ages and inspiring action in and across communities.
Lynchburg Daily Bread provides a hot, free meal every day to the homeless and hungry of our community, serving more than 78,000 meals each year.
Kids’ Haven is an organization dedicated to serving the unique needs of grieving children and their families through support and education.
Miller Home provides short or long term care and guidance to girls, ages four through twenty-one, who cannot live with their families.
Park View Community Mission offers help, healing, and hope in one of the poorest zip codes in the state of Virginia. Their mission is to restore the lives of families and communities by building relationships and providing lifechanging resources through various programs.
CASA recruits, trains and supports volunteer advocates for abused and neglected children. The program seeks to provide for every child a voice; a safe, permanent and loving home; and hope for a brighter future.
Girls on the Run is dedicated to creating a world where every girl knows her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams by using fun, experience-based curriculum that integrates running.
Miriam’s House is dedicated to ending homelessness and empowering our most vulnerable neighbors: women, children, youth and families. They have both on-site and community-based programs aimed at connecting people to safe and affordable housing.
Corporate competition at the Virginia 10 Miler is not just about the race, but also about fostering a culture of health and wellness within organizations. With 21 local company teams vying for the top spot, the event serves as a catalyst for employees to engage in physical activity and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Employee wellness programs have been proven to have numerous benefits for both individuals and organizations. According to a Harvard study, companies see a 6-to-1 return on their investments in wellness programs. 1Such programs have been shown to lead to decreased absenteeism, increased employee productivity, improved morale, and better job satisfaction.
The Virginia 10 Miler’s corporate competition not only encourages teamwork and camaraderie among colleagues but also highlights the positive impact of employee wellness programs. By participating in such events, companies demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their workforce, creating a healthier and more motivated workforce overall.
1Source: https://www.shrm.org/ResourcesAndTools/hr-topics/benefits/Documents/ 2010-Harvard-Wellness-Program-Meta-Study-Health-Affairs.pdf
2023
Overall award winners will be recognized on the main stage: Virginia 10 Miler and Virginia 4+ Miler. The top 10 overall male and female finishers and top 5 American male and female finishers will be recognized on the main stage along with RRCA 10-Mile Virginia State Championship award winners. This includes Master, Grand Master, and Senior Grand Master Champions. The top 3 overall male and female finishers for the Virginia 4+ Miler will be recognized on the main stage along with Master, Grand Master, and Senior Master Champions.
The 49th Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler is the Road Runners Club of America State 10-Mile Championship. Special RRCA Championship medals will be given to the Overall Male and Female Champion in the following categories: Overall, Masters, Grand Masters, and Senior Grand Masters. These award winners will be recognized at our awards ceremony following the race.
Overall Male and Overall Female:
Age group awards will be available for pickup at our After Party at 3 Roads Brewing Co., Downtown Lynchburg, on race day (see Page 5). Those not picked up will be mailed.
A Corporate Team Competition will take place for the 10 mile run event and is available ONLY to our corporate partners and sponsors.
There will be 3 corporate team categories; Mixed, Male, and Female. Awards will be given to the top scoring team in each category. The best 5 corporate finishers, for each team category, will be designated as that corporation’s team. Teams will be ranked by the cumulative time of the 5 best team finishers
All competitors for a corporate team must be employed by the company they are declaring. Family members and friends of a company will not qualify.
1st: $1,500 • 2nd: $800
7th: $300
3rd: $700
8th: $200
4th: $600
5th: $500 6th: $400
9th: $150
10th: $100
“Overall” cash award eligibility (Male sub 57:00, Female sub 64:00)
Age Group Awards (Top 3 Male & Female): 9-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-79, 80+
1st: $500* • 2nd: $300* • 3rd: $200* • 4th: $150* • 5th: $100*
*Must be a U.S. Citizen (Male sub 55:00, Female sub 62:00)
Time Bonuses (not cumulative):
Gun time will be used to determine placing for all categories receiving prize money/bonuses. These categories include Overall awards, Masters Champions, Grand Masters Champions, and Senior Grand Master Champions. Age group awards will be determined using Net (chip) time. There is no double-dipping of prizes. For example, an overall award winner cannot also win their age group. However, a team competitor can win both their age group award and team competition. This policy excludes team competition where chip timing will be used to determine team rankings.
Male (in min.): under 47:20: $1,000
under 51: $150
under 48: $600
under 49: $400 under 50: $200
under 52: $100
Female (in min.): under 54:20: $1,000
$400 under 57: $200
under 58: $150
• Set the Course Record: $5,000
under 55: $600
under 60: $100
under 56:
(Rod Dixon: 46.50.00, 1981 • Monicah Ngige • 53:15.72, 2022)
• Master Male (40+) under 60:00: 1st $250 • 2nd $150 • 3rd $100
Master Female (40+) under 67:00: 1st $250 • 2nd $150 • 3rd $100
• Masters Champion Male & Female (Age 40-49):
Pair of Brooks shoes
Grand Masters Champion Male & Female (Age 50+):
Pair of Brooks shoes
• Senior Grand Master Male & Female (Age 60+):
Pair of Brooks shoes
• Age Group Awards (Top 3 Male & Female): 17 & under, 18-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-79, 80+
The top 3 male and female finishers for the Virginia 4+ Miler will be recognized on the main stage along with Master, Grand Master, and Senior Master Champions.
Age Group Awards (Top 3 Male & Female): 9-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-79, 80+
ALL OFFICIAL FINISHERS OF THE VIRGINIA 10 MILER, 4+ MILER, AND 4+ MILE WALK WILL RECEIVE A COMMEMORATIVE FINISHER MEDAL
TIPS FOR YOUR POST-RACE RECOVERY
Crossing the finish line of a road race is an incredible achievement, but proper post-race recovery is vital for optimal healing and injury prevention. Here are some tips for what to do after the race.
CELEBRATE:
Take the time to enjoy all you’ve overcome and all you’ve achieved. Your accomplishments are a big deal!
EMBRACE ACTIVE RECOVERY: Engage in light physical activity, like walking and stretching, for 1015 more minutes to promote blood flow, reduce inflammation, and ease muscle soreness.
HYDRATION AND NUTRITION: Replenish fluids and nutrients with water and electrolyte-rich drinks. Eat a balanced snack as soon as you can with carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. What you eat post-race replenishes glycogen stores and begins repairing your muscles.
PRIORITIZE QUALITY SLEEP: Get 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Create a sleepfriendly environment and establish a relaxing bedtime routine.
REST AND MENTAL RECOVERY: Reflect on your achievement, enjoy the euphoria, and embrace the stillness to come. Be sure to get a great night’s rest each night and engage in some self-care activities.
Jared Ward is an Olympian with a lifetime dedication to long-distance running. In the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Ward achieved a remarkable 6th place finish in the marathon, setting a personal best time of 2:11:30.
Catch Jared at various events throughout race weekend, including an inspirational talk on Thursday, shake out run on Friday, packet pickup appearance, and more.
For a full list of social events, see Page 5.
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