2026 Sports Backers 8k Training Team
NO MATTER YOUR GOAL, THE 8KTT IS DESIGNED FOR YOU!
They say there’s strength in numbers… and we couldn’t agree more! Training for the Richmond 8k can be a challenge, but doing it in a group setting with a crew of supportive coaches and teammates is sure to get you to the finish line. Spend 8 weeks in a program catered to runners and walkers of all abilities – you’ll quickly realize how fun (yes, FUN!) training can be and how easy it is to make new friends. So take some time for yourself, your health, and your social life and meet us Sept. 18 at one of our convenient locations. Lace ‘em up, folks – it’s time to get moving!
8K TRAINING TEAM REGISTRATION INCLUDES
Detailed schedule for you to follow
Personal guidance from a team of experienced coaches
Organized and supported weekly group Saturday morning runs from several convenient locations around the city
A special Sports Backers 8k Training Team technical shirt
FREE entry in the 2026 Richmond 8k and all associated race benefits
Training Locations (Subject to Change)
Coaches will email all participants prior to the first day of training to confirm.
- Church Hill
- Fan/Museum District
- Midlothian
- Short Pump
- Traveling Team – This group will meet up at different locations each week
- Virtual - Wherever you are
Rules
- Training Team entry fees are non-refundable and entries are non-transferable, no exceptions. Once we receive your entry, you will not receive a refund if you cannot participate.
- You may defer your 2025 8k Training Team entry to the 2026 8k Training Team through September 22 for $10. After that date, there will be no more deferrals.
- Your free entry in the 2025 VCU Health Richmond 8k, by itself, may not be deferred.
- Strollers/Baby joggers and dogs are not permitted at group runs or in any of the events connected to the Richmond Marathon.
- You must be at least 8 years of age to participate. If you are under the age of 16, you must have a parent/guardian present for all training runs.
Event Charity: Sports Backers Youth Programs
Sports Backers invests in the future of active living in our region through our youth programs – Kids On The Move and the Active Living Leadership ALL Stars. From the youngest kids getting an opportunity to be a part of a running or fitness club, reaping the socio-emotional benefits while moving more, to those on their way to adulthood and applying to college, Sports Backers is passionate about supporting Richmond region youth. We do this by providing the resources they need to be successful, whether that be a pair of athletic shoes for a child in need, covering the cost of bus transportation for a Kids On The Move club to attend one of our signature events, or providing leadership training and scholarships to promising student-athletes. Your donation makes it possible for us to support the most important part of our community – our kids. They are the future and we know that by investing in them and instilling healthy habits now, it benefits us all.
Fundraising: If you would like to fundraise for Sports Backers Youth Programs please email Jacki (jacki@sportsbackers.org)
Donation Discounts: A donation of at least $50 will automatically result in $20 off your in-person registration fee.
Sports Backers’ mission is to inspire people to live actively. Since 1991, Sports Backers has fostered a culture of active living in Central Virginia through its participatory sporting events and community-based programs that have inspired hundreds of thousands of people in the region to set fitness goals and pursue an active lifestyle. In everything that we do, we strive to promote health equity and create accessible opportunities for active living throughout our region.
We fulfill our mission by: (1) advocating for bike and pedestrian infrastructure; (2) energizing the community through events; and (3) building a network of community-led group fitness programs in schools and neighborhoods. With your support, we can make this region a more vibrant place to live where safe opportunities to walk, run, bike, or workout abound and where access to these activities are available to all. Thank you for considering an investment in our region’s future!
