The Richmond Marathon was a brand-new experience for us, and it didn’t disappoint. This was our first time running Richmond, and the adventure started with a flight to Newport News.
We rented a car and stayed with my sister Sharon, which made the trip feel even more special. Our friend Natalie agreed to run with us, and she arrived the next day. We spent some time exploring Smithfield, checking out a local brewery, and enjoying a lovely lunch.

The following morning, we drove to Richmond to visit the expo and pick up our race bibs. The pre-race meal was a highlight—we dined at the most beautiful historic restaurant in Richmond, which set the tone for the next day’s race.
Race morning was quite chilly, so we kept our warm shirts on until it was time to start. Natalie ran with us for most of the race, but as the miles wore on, she started to fall back. She encouraged us to continue without her, and we pressed on.
The course was stunning, taking us through historic downtown Richmond, along the water, and over a bridge. Some sections featured gentle inclines, but the finish was a memorable downhill stretch—steep and exhilarating.
At the finish line, we were handed warm fleece blankets instead of the traditional heat shields, which was a thoughtful touch. Even with the blanket, it was freezing after the race, but the sense of accomplishment kept our spirits high. I truly loved this marathon—from the beautiful course to the unique experiences—and I hope to make it a tradition. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a great race and spend meaningful time with my family.
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