13th Backpack Run is March 21 at Green Hill Park

The Backpack Run, presented by the Roanoke County Public Schools Education Foundation is back for the 13th year!  This year, the 5K event has been renamed the Marion Childress 5K in honor of Marion Childress, founder of the C&C Running Team and an ambassador for running in the Roanoke Valley.

“Marion has been an instrumental partner and helped us start the Backpack Run back in 2013,” said Chuck Lionberger, race director for the Backpack Run.  “Over the years, he has supported this race and promoted running in the Roanoke Valley.  We are proud to host a race in his name,” Lionberger said.

The Backpack Run offers both in-person and virtual races for the Marion Childress 5K and Backpack Run 10K.  Both in-person races will take place on March 21 at Green Hill Park starting at 9 a.m.

Runners are invited to accept the Backpack Challenge!  Participate in both race events (5K and 10K) to earn both individual finisher medals and a third exclusive custom Backpack Challenge medal/item.  Challenge runners may participate in both events in-person or virtually.

Registration fees for the 5K are $20-$35.  Fees for the 10K are $35-$55.  The Backpack Challenge (5K and 10K) is $50-$75.  Prices vary depending on age (student or adult) and team participation.  Register at www.rcps.us/backpackrun.

Proceed go to support the Roanoke County Public Schools Education Foundation, a 501©3 non-profit organization that, since 1991, has provided more than $1.6 million in support including grants for teachers and scholarships for students in Roanoke County.