Before sunrise on Saturday, Sept. 26, nearly 4,000 runners from six countries and 16 states gathered in Lynchburg, Virginia, to participate in the 52nd annual Virginia 10 Miler. While the race served as a tradition for some and a personal challenge for others, spectators lined the route with signs and encouragement to cheer participants on.
The course routed competitors from Langhorne Road to Rivermont Avenue, through Riverside Park, and back toward the finish line. For participants, the 10-mile event brought a mix of personal milestones, relief, and accomplishment after crossing the finish line.
Runner Experiences and Personal Milestones
Runner Clay Tyler shared his perspective on the grueling course, noting, “The biggest thing is just reminding yourself one step at a time, and eventually you’ll get to the finish line, no matter how hard it is.”
Other runners achieved specific personal goals during the event. Tristin Colley competed in her first race back postpartum, calling the experience “challenging but so much fun.” Andrew Moroz ran to fulfill a promise to his daughter and to represent his homeland, stating, “I did it for my daughter, who said she wanted me to bring back a medal. And also for the good people of Ukraine where I’m from.”
Kaiden Martin completed the race with one lung and zero training, finishing in an hour and 42 minutes through sheer determination. Brian and Natalie Powers summarized the prevailing sentiment at the end of the course, stating, “We’re feeling great right now because we’re done. Crossing the finish line is a great feeling.”
Color Guard Anniversary and Community Support
In addition to the runners, the event marked a 25th-year milestone for the Virginia Ten Miler Color Guard. Color Guard coordinator Greg Wormser explained that the group was originally created following the Sept. 11 attacks to honor those lost.
“It’s all about remembering those who have sacrificed so much both at home and abroad,” Wormser said. Supported by enthusiastic community crowds along the streets, the thousands of participants ultimately concluded 10 miles of hard work and dedication at the finish line.
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