The Lynchburg Road Runners Club (LRRC) publishes a monthly newsletter packed with running tips, race recaps, upcoming events, photos, and features on local runners. While the previous month's newsletter is available to the public, current LRRC members can access the latest edition and an archive of past newsletters by logging into their RunSignup account via the "Sign In" link at the top right corner of our website. If you're not a member but are interested in joining, simply click the "Join" button at the top right corner.
August 2025
July was a great month for the club. The month began with the Percival's Island 5 Miler and ended with the final race in the spring/summer race series, the Kemper Street Downhill Mile. In between, many of us enjoyed our first movie night where McFarland USA was shown to a number of pizza and popcorn eaters. August and early September will be a little more outwardly subdued as we prepare for the 51st Virginia 10 Miler sponsored by Moore & Giles.
Upcoming Events
2025 Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler Saturday September 27th
This year will be the 51st running of the Virginia 10 Miler as well as the 26th running of the Virginia 4+ Miler, and the 15th edition of the Virginia 4+ Miler Walk. And on Friday the 26th, the 24th edition of the Amazing Mile for children will take place at Amazement Square.
Expect another set of first-class events, with an elite field, corporate running teams, bands on the course, a guest speaker, and hopefully donuts again. And 'yes' look for an improvement in the packet pickup location.
As with most long-lived road races, there has been a wonderful change in the last fifty plus years. Women have gone from a rare sight in road races to the majority. The 10 Miler reflects this growth as shown below. In our first race there were seven women finishers including 14 year-old Gail Hafley, who we brought back for our 50th last year. In 2024, 43% of the 10 miler finishers were women, and for all three events women comprised 53% of the finishers.
August/September - Virginia 10 Miler Saturday Morning Water Stops
To assist runners in preparing for the 2025 Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler, the club and Riverside Runners provides water stops at RR on August and September Saturday mornings between 7:30 and 9:00 am. Feel free to stop and get refreshed as you run to and/or from Riverside Park in preparation for the 51st running of the race on September 27th. If you would like to volunteer (no special skills required) for one of the Saturdays, contact us - we'll pair you up with an experienced individual.
September 6th - 2024 LRRC Spring/Summer Race Series Awards Ceremony
The spring/summer race series will be held at 930 am on Saturday September 6th in Riverside Park. After you Saturday long run, join us for refreshments and the awards ceremony. Results through nine of the ten races are currently available on Riverside Runners results page and will be updated for the Kemper Street Downhill Mile soon.
And then ... the LRRC Fall Race Series will begin with the Virginia 10 Miler/4+ Miler races.
October 11th John A. Stephenson Youth Run
A Lynchburg tradition for thirty-three years, the John A. Stephenson Youth run has seen its share of multi-generational runners. It's typically a gorgeous fall Saturday morning which starts with children age 3 and under running 1/8 of mile (a.k.a., 220 yards or a furlong) and ends with children age 8 through 13 running a mile.
It's hot, very hot!
Summertime running is challenging. Maintaining the correct fluid and electrolyte levels day in and day out can be difficult. Going into a longer run, when you are out of balance increases the risk of heat stress. No one, even the best-conditioned athletes are free from risk. So, it's super important that you are aware of heat related symptoms and that you take action before you have a problem. There is no shame in stopping a run and seeking shade, liquids, and cooler temperatures.
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July 4 Percival's Island Firecracker 5 Miler
On a decent weather-wise summer morning, 261 finished and enjoyed (hopefully) this year's race. Fast times were common as the top six overall finished under 30 minutes with Zach Knight leading in 26:49, followed by Andrew York of Winston-Salem in 28:17 and Isaiah White in 28:26. Top woman and 4th (!!) overall was LU grad Noel Palmer who set a course record of 29:08. Kate O'Brien came second in 31:56, with Jen Lully next in 34:43. Top Master's were Carrie Beaumont (38:14) and the ever-young Jeff Harrington (31:20).
LRRC Movie Night
We had a great turnout for our first movie night where in a relaxed, non-sweaty environment, we enjoyed pizza, popcorn, and watching McFarland USA
Kemper Street Downhill Mile
The 3rd running of the Kemper Street Downhill Mile took place on a hot, Friday night (July 25th). Ninety-three runners, spread over seven starts, tore down the hill with many setting personal bests for one mile. In a very tight finish, rising high school freshman, Cameron Preite edged Paul Messerly and Riverside Runners' employee Matthias Grutz with the trio sandwiched between 4:32 and 4:33. Even more impressively, 48 year-old Dana Hayden of Powhatan sped to a 4:47 as the top female and 8th(!) overall. Frederick Marylander Johanna Schick also broke 5 minutes (4:56) as the second female with local, MC Nesaw placing third (5:10). Top Master's went to Brent Steinweg (4:43) and Fincastle's Alice Kassens (5:41).
Results are posted on-line and awards may be picked up at Riverside Runners.
Runner of the Month - Tom Matzke
When did you start running and what led you to this sport? Did you run for a high school and/or college team?
I ran one year of track in high school as a freshman and became more interested in distance running in my late 20s to stay in shape for a recreation league basketball. This interest developed into more training and running a marathon.
What is your proudest running related accomplishment?
Running my first two marathons and qualifying for the Boston marathon in the process.
How many times per week and how far do you run?
About 6 times a week for a total weekly mileage around 30 - 35 miles.
What are your favorite races to run and why?
Deck the Heels 5K in December because it is a cool weather night race. I also like the Point of Honor 5k and the Arctic 5k because I like the hills.
What goals do you have in your running career?
Stay healthy and improve my race times and give glory to God.
Why should local runners be part of the Lynchburg Road Runners Club?
It is a great way to join the community and meet new people.
You have a big race tomorrow, what are you eating tonight?
Spaghetti with marinara sauce and fruit or a salad.
June 2025 Newsletter
Jeff Fedorko once remarked that Lynchburg has many more running events than a city/area this size typically has. It's true! As we head into summer and look back at all the spring races it's amazing what we have. And speaking of what we have, Lynchburg was the second city in the U.S. to receive the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) designation of a 'Runner Friendly Community' back in 2011 and has maintained this designation continuously since then.
The club is excited about what we have for you over the summer: LRRC Summer Track Series, 100 day Kickoff Fun Run for the Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler, Movie Night, and our Saturday morning Virginia 10 Miler water stops.
June 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th - 33rd Annual Lynchburg Road Runner Summer Track Series
Every Tuesday evening in June the first starting gun will fire at 6:30 pm at the University of Lynchburg Track. Each night we will have races for all ages and all abilities. It only costs $1 per person for the evening (except the 5,000 which is $5). We have fully-automated timing and starting blocks (for those sprinters who want them). You'll find one year olds running their first 100 meter dash as well as an 80 year-old trying to qualify for the Penn Relays. In a bit of a humble-brag we had two runners last year qualify for the US Olympic Trials at 800 meters. We provide ribbons to first, second, and third placers as well as the other competitors. You register for the series once and we'll have your race number waiting. We can also keep your number for future weeks. So come out race and cheer at this family friendly event. Bring a refillable water bottle to re-hydrate.
The schedule is:
JUNE 3 (Tuesday): 1500m (6:30 pm - 7:00 pm); Open 100m (7:10pm); Age Groups 100m (7:15-7:45 pm); 800m (7:45-8:00 pm)
JUNE 10 (Tuesday): 100m (Kid’s 4 and Under) 6:30pm; Age Groups 200m (6:35 – 6:50 pm); Open 200m (7:00 pm): LRRC Race Series 5,000m Heat 1 – 7:20 pm (30 minutes and over); Heat 2 – 8:00 pm (23 to 30 minutes); Heat 3 8:35 pm (19 to 23 minutes); Heat 4 – 9:00 pm (under 19 minutes)
JUNE 17 (Tuesday): Age Groups 100 m (6:30-6:55 pm); Open 100m (7:00); 2 Mile (7:05 pm-7:45 pm); 400 m (8:00 - 8:15 pm)
JUNE 24 (Tuesday) 1 Mile (6:30 pm-7:00 pm); 100m (Kid’s 4 and Under) 7:10 pm; Open 200m (7:15); Age Groups 200 m (7:20-7:45 pm); 800 m (7:45-8:00 pm)
JULY 1 (Tuesday) Makeup Date in Case of Cancellation
June 19th - Virginia 10 Miler 100 Day Kickoff Fun Run
Join us Thursday June 19th at 5:300 pm at the First Christian Church (3109 Rivermont Avenue) for a fun run to kickoff training for the 2025 Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler. After the fun run, thanks to Brooks there will be ice cream treats provided by Rookies (for the first 100 attendees) and an opportunity to take some spiffy Brooks shoes for a test drive. Retro 10 Miler shirts will be available for a nominal cost ($10) with LRRC members receiving a healthy discount ($5). Look for a RunSignUp link on our facebook page soon.
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July 11th - LRRC Movie Night
Join us Friday evening on July 11th at 6:45 pm at the First Christian Church (3109 Rivermont Avenue) for pizza, popcorn, and a running movie McFarland USA. Admission and refreshments are free. You may want to bring blankets or cushions to make the folding chairs more comfortable. We will also show one or two historic Virginia 10 Miler movies as a preview. To give us an accurate headcount for pizza and refreshments, please register, you can find the link under our "Events" tab on the website.
August/September - Virginia 10 Miler Saturday Morning Water Stops
To assist runners in preparing for the 2025 Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler, the club and Riverside Runners provides water stops at RR on August and September Saturday mornings between 7:30 and 9:00 am. Feel free to stop and get refreshed as you run to and/or from Riverside Park in preparation for the 51st running of he race on September 27th. If you would like to volunteer (no special skills required) for one of the Saturdays, contact us - we'll pair you up with an experienced individual
Recent Activities
May 3rd - Run 4 Their Lives 5K
239 participants turned out for this run/walk dedicated to preventing human trafficking. In a close finish, Isaiah White (17:45) edged out Ed Lane (17:49), with LRRC runner-of-the-month, Tyler Schmidt (18:36) finishing third. On the distaff side, MC Nesaw took top honors (20:01), with 14 year-old Piper Zealand second and Wisconsin native Lydia Buxia crossing third (23:03). Special shoutout to 12 year-old Owen Zealand in fourth in 20:19. After the race runners/walkers enjoyed fresh pancakes and could tour the health and wellness exposition in the the LU Indoor Track Complex.
May 10th - Mother's Day Weekend Nomad Coffee Fun Run
Over fifty running/walking friends enjoyed a casual fun run followed by a complimentary drink from Nomad Coffee - they even provided a runner's special, which received favorable feedback.
May 15th - Memorial Day 10K Course Preview Fun Run
A light, but enthusiastic crowd showed for the course preview fun run on May 15th.
May 26th - Memorial Day 10 K
Thanks to race director, Carol Friend, race sponsors, an amazing cadre of volunteers, and Riverside Runners for timing, a record number of participants crossed the finish line for the 10K run and 2 mile walk. Runners and walkers were greeted with the best weather in years (cool and cloudy). Proceeds from the race go to the Type 1 Diabetes Experience (T1DE) to support diabetes education, nutrition workshops, cooking demos, community support groups, and camps for children with Type 1 Diabetes.
Former Lynchburger, Zach Knight set a PR by winning in 32:59. Michael Craig took second in a very respectable 34:30, with RR employee, Matthias Grutz in third (35:49). For the women Isabella Lang crossed first in 41:50 followed by Brooke Craig (43:43) and Carrie Beaumont of Dan-Vegas in 45:04. Special shoutout to 68 year-old Roanoker Paul Beers placing 11th overall (41:11)!
Other Racing News (for races outside the race series - please submit results to us)
April 21st Boston Marathon
- Brent Steinweg 2:59:29
- Wim Imrom 4:06:34
April 27th London Marathon Lee Jarvis 2:45:49
May 17th Ogden (UT) America's First Half Marathon Jeff Harrington 1:25:54
May 24th NCAA Division IIII Track and Field Championships - University of Lynchburg
- Tor Hartung-Davidson National Champion 1,500 Meters 3:48.75
- Chasen Hunt National Champion 5,000 Meters 14:10.51
LRRC Runner of the Month - Tyler Schmidt
When did you start running and what led you to this sport? Did you run for a high school and/or college team?
I started running around Halloween 2023 as an aid to weight loss journey (over 100lbs down!). I actually couldn’t run over a mile at the time. I later made a New Year’s resolution to run 1000 miles in 2024 and really started enjoying the routine of it. I signed up for my first 5k in June of 2024 (“Big Run” Roanoke) and I was officially hooked.
I was on the track team in HS, but primarily only did shotput/discus. It was really more of an excuse to get away from off-season football workouts! (Haha)
What is your proudest running related accomplishment?
I would have to say my proudest running accomplishment to date is running the Shamrock Marathon in VA Beach this past March in 2:59:45.
How many times per week and how far do you run?
I typically run 5+ times per week, approximately 35-40 miles per week depending on any upcoming races, etc. I really enjoy tinkering with my training schedule and mapping out workouts.
Where do you like to run?
You can find me most often on Blackwater Creek Trail WCT or the streets of Rustburg. I also frequent Linkhorne track or Rustburg High School track.
What are your favorite races to run and why?
All of them! Though I think I’m better suited for longer distances.
What goals do you have in your running career?
Qualifying for Boston! I’m hoping to give it a shot sometime this Fall or early 2026
Why should local runners be part of the Lynchburg Road Runners Club?
Great community of runners, and tons of great events! I’m still meeting many of you, but the folks I have met have been very supportive and welcoming. The discounts on races and at Riverside Runners don’t hurt either!
You have a big race tomorrow, what are you eating tonight?
That’s easy- my wife’s famous chicken pasta
You have a choice of free tickets to Taylor Swift, Coldplay, Zach Bryan, or Noah Kahn, who are you going to see (most people answer this incorrectly)?
None of these are quite my style, but if I had to choose it would probably be Zach Bryan.
What questions do you wish we would have asked you? (and what are the answers?)
Favorite running shoe or shoes? Currently a pair of ASICS Novablast 4 that I can’t seem to retire. Also, Nike Vaporfly 3 that have delivered me several PRs.
May 2025 Newsletter
VIRGINIA 10 MILER RECOGNIZED AS “2024 ROAD RACE OF THE YEAR”
The Moore and Giles Virginia 10 Miler has been selected by the Road Runners Club of America as the 2024 “Road Race of the Year.” Since 1971, the RRCA has honored the service and dedication of outstanding leaders in the running community. The award recognizes the significant contributions the event made to the sport in 2024 by engaging and empowering everyone to run and by having outstanding performances in races.
The 2024 race was the 50th running of this historic and prestigious race. Past participants have included over forty Olympians including numerous Olympic medalists. The 2024 event had a record number of participants on the course and the anniversary included a historical exhibit at the Lynchburg Museum, a commemorative book, and a reunion of past champions and race directors.
The race is indebted to local business and charitable organization leaders who sponsor the event. The 10 Miler is directed by Jeff Fedorko under the stewardship of the Lynchburg Road Runners Club (LRRC), with Lesley McPhatter as the 10 Miler Chairperson. Bret Boman, President of the Lynchburg Road Runners and LRRC Board members Monica Kamin and Grattan Garbee accepted the award at the RRCA National Running Awards Luncheon and Ceremony on April 26th in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
The 51st running of the Moore & Giles Virginia 10 Miler will take place Saturday September 27, 2025. The event is owned and organized by the Lynchburg Road Runners and has been selected by the RRCA as a Virginia State Championship for 2025.
The Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) is the oldest and largest national association of runners and running organizations in the world dedicated to growing the sport of running since 1958.
Recent Events
April 24th 600 pm Run 4 Their Lives 5K Course Preview Fun Run - Liberty University Indoor Track Complex. A small but spirited group showed for the fun run for runners to familiarize themselves with the course (or just have some fun). Our apologies that we didn't have a course preview fun run for the Runway 5K (for obvious reasons).
April 26 United Way on the Runway 5K. 526 people finished the flattest 5K in Lynchburg. The first three male finishers were youngsters (21 and younger) Brandon Schimmel (16:10), Shane Stevens (16:50), and Bryce Wall (17:42). The women were led by forever-young Heather Gollnick (21:32) followed by youngsters Rachel Birch (21:57) and Katie Lydzinski (22:27). Photos courtesy of Robert Copeland
Spring/Summer Race Series - Four of the ten races remain.
5/26 Memorial Day 10K LRRC Discount Deadline = 5/4/2025
6/12 LRRC Track Series 5,000 (no discount, cost is $5)
7/4 Percival’s Island Firecracker 5 Miler LRRC Discount Deadline = 6/10/2025
7/xx Kemper Street Downhill Mile LRRC Discount Deadline = TBD
Series Standings are posted here https://riversiderunners.com/race-results/
Upcoming Events
May 26th Memorial Day 10K - The seventh and longest race in the race series takes place on Memorial Day from the Depot Grille downtown. The race benefits those with Type 1 diabeties.
Every Tuesday in June - LRRC Summer Track Series at the University of Lynchburg
For the 33rd year, runners of all ages and abilities have the opportunity to challenge themselves on the track. It's a great way to introduce children and adults to the sport, with the 100 meter dash for kids 4 and under being a highlight of each evening.
Reminders: Register before coming to the race
https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/Lynchburg/LynchburgRoadRunnersClubSummerTrackSeries
You register once for the series and we'll keep your bib/race number for you
$1 per evening except the 5,000 which is $5.
JUNE 3 (Tuesday): 1500m (6:30 pm - 7:00 pm); Open 100m (7:10pm); Age Groups 100m (7:15-7:45 pm); 800m (7:45-8:00 pm)
JUNE 10 (Tuesday): 100m (Kid’s 4 and Under) 6:30pm; Age Groups 200m (6:35 – 6:50 pm); Open 200m (7:00 pm): LRRC Race Series 5,000m Heat 1 – 7:20 pm (30 minutes and over); Heat 2 – 8:00 pm (23 to 30 minutes); Heat 3 8:35 pm (19 to 23 minutes); Heat 4 – 9:00 pm (under 19 minutes)
JUNE 17 (Tuesday): Age Groups 100 m (6:30-6:55 pm); Open 100m (7:00); 2 Mile (7:05 pm-7:45 pm); 400 m (8:00 - 8:15 pm)
JUNE 24 (Tuesday) 1 Mile (6:30 pm-7:00 pm); 100m (Kid’s 4 and Under) 7:10 pm; Open 200m (7:15); Age Groups 200 m (7:20-7:45 pm); 800 m (7:45-8:00 pm)
JULY 1 (Tuesday) Makeup Date in Case of Cancellation
July 11th - LRRC Movie Night
Details are being finalized, but plan to attend movie night on July 11th. We'll likely have a fun run preceding the movie and refreshments to enjoy. McFarland is the movie with a historic Virginia 10 Miler film as the appetizer.
LRRC Runner of the Month - Jodie Chandler
When did you start running and what led you to this sport?
I have exercised throughout my entire adult life. I've done pilates, kickboxing, CrossFit and weightlifting. I started running on a treadmill in 2006 for some added cardio. In April 2016, a few friends wanted to do a charity run and they chose the Run for Their Lives race. I ran that race and have been hooked ever since.
What is your proudest running related accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment is actually a time period. In the past 7 months, I have learned to train smarter. I am incorporating different running techniques, sticking to a plan and improving my fueling. This has allowed me to hit 6 course PR's.
How many times per week and how far do you run?
How much I run depends on what races I am training for. I usually run 4 days a week but total distance varies from 16 to 35 miles.
What are your favorite races to run and why?
I have a bunch of favorite races to run. CASA is a favorite 5K because my son always comes home and joins us. I love the Richmond Half for its easy rolling hills. And I love any race on St. Patty's Day because they get me running on my birthday!
What goals do you have in your running career?
My only running goal is to keep trying new races. This year I ran my 1st Blacksburg 10 Miler, Charlottesville 10 Miler and Rock 'n' Roll Nashville Half Marathon.
Why should local runners be part of the Lynchburg Road Runners Club?
Runners should be a part of the LRRC because it really helps you feel connected to our community. The group gives positive support and motivation for all runners.
You have a big race tomorrow, what are you eating tonight?
The night before a race, I am eating grilled chicken, a sweet potato and rice bowl.
You have a choice of free tickets to Taylor Swift, Coldplay, or Noah Kahn, who are you going to see.
I would choose to not go see any of these. I am not a fan of concerts- I'll just stick to listening to my running playlists- haha.
What questions do you wish we would have asked you?
I have no additional questions to be answered by I do want to give a shout out to my number one cheerleader. He encourages me when I am full of pre-race nerves. He drives me to all the races-even when he couldn't participate in them and even when they are 7 hours from home. He has run with me in sickness, humidity, rain, snow, arctic wind and ice. I wouldn't be the runner I am without his support. So, thank you to my husband, Kevin Chandler!!
Other Racing News
In mid-April, Chasen Hunt, University of Lynchburg (formerly Brookville HS) set an NCAA Division III 5,000 meter record of 13:41.. On May 2nd, he was the THIRD (!!!) UL runner to cross the finish in the mile run. No words are needed - the photo says it all.
