Revolutionary run returns in April
Runners who sign-up early receive discounts to the 5-mile run at Valley Forge National Historical Park.
VALLEY FORGE » The Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run is back at 8:30 a.m. April 22 at Valley Forge National Historical Park, and runners are encouraged to sign-up as soon as possible to take advantage of early discounts.
Organized by the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board (VFTCB), all proceeds from the event benefit Valley Forge National Historical Park. The cost is $35 until March 17, and then $40 through April 21. Since there is no race-day registration, runners can register online here: https://www.valleyforge.org/revolutionaryrun/.
A unique challenge for runners of all skill levels, more than 1,500 runners are expected to participate in this one-of-a-kind event in its 13th year.
“Valley Forge is known nationally and internationally, so we’re beyond proud to keep supporting key programming, and improvement projects at this gem of a destination,” said Mike Bowman, President & CEO of the VFTCB.
Last year, the run raised a record-breaking $54,000. Since the inception of the Rev Run in 2005, the VFTCB has given back more than $300,000 in support to Valley Forge, a site that attracted 2.2 million visitors in 2017.
Runners trek the fivemile, USATF-certified, closed course that follows the Joseph Plumb Martin Trail, and traverses the scenic and hilly terrain of the park with steady climbs and descents, a mix of roads and trails, and ends with a tough uphill climb over the final quarter-mile to the finish line at the park’s Visitor Center.
Named an Event to Watch in 2017 by Sports Event Magazine, Rev Run is sanctioned by the Mid-Atlantic USA Track & Field, and is part of the Mid-Atlantic Grand Prix. USATF members can register for $33 until March 17, and then $38 through April 21.
The event also includes a three-mile walk, which is open to all ages, strollers, and leashed dogs along the Joseph Plumb Martin Trail for $25 until March 17, and then $30 through April 21. The 1.776 kilometer Young Patriots Run for kids ages 6-13 passes the Muhlenberg Brigade huts, and costs $15 until March 17, and then $20 through April 21.
In-person sign-ups will be available during packet pickup 3 to 6 p.m. April 20, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 21 in the VFTCB offices located at 1000 1st Ave, Suite 101 in King of Prussia.
Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three overall male and female winners. Custom medals will also be awarded to the top three finishers in each age bracket.
Registrants before April 2 will receive a 2018 Revolutionary Run commemorative long-sleeve t-shirt. Participants and spectators can also enjoy the expo area which includes local restaurants, attractions, and services with free samples, swag and discounts.
Sponsorships are still available starting at $250, as well as Corporate Team categories, and volunteer opportunities.
Funds raised are part of various infrastructure improvement projects and programming to enhance visitor experience:
• Future maintenance needs of Sullivan’s Bridge, the new pedestrian span over the Schuylkill River
• Design and fabrication work on the public trailhead and overlook improvements as part of a new Meadow Trail/ Meadow Management Plan
• Design and fabrication of new information and orientation kiosk located between visitor parking and the Visitor Center
• Support Once Upon a Nation Storytelling bench programs
The Park also has a significant economic impact on the region, contributing $30.7 million and 540 jobs to the local economy in 2016.
“We consider ourselves fortunate to have a committed park partner like we have in the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board,” said Superintendent Steve Sims. “As a two-time Rev Run participant, I look forward to utilizing this contribution to enhance the visitor experience within the park and also seeing the race continue for years to come.”