Runners, race weekend is almost here! We are looking at some high temperatures this weekend, and your safety is our top priority. Please take a moment to read through this update on how to prepare and what resources we will have on the course to keep you safe.

Pre-Race Heat Prep

• Hydrate Early: Start increasing your water and electrolyte intake right now. Don’t wait until race morning to play catch-up.

• Dress Smart: Wear light-colored, breathable, and moisture-wicking gear. Visors and sunglasses are highly recommended.

• Adjust Your Goals: Prepare mentally to adapt to the conditions rather than strictly chasing a PR.

On-Course & Finish Line Resources

We are fully equipped to support you on the course. Here’s what you can expect this year:

• 23 Aid Stations: Every single station is staffed with medical volunteers and fully stocked with water and Tailwind.

• Late-Morning Cooling Measures: After 11:00 AM, as temperatures are forecast to climb, we are ramping up cooling measures across the course, including handing out cooling towels.

• Mile 22.5 A/C Station: Need a major core-temp reset? Look for the air-conditioned cooling station at the Pickle Juice stop at mile 22.5!

• The Finish Line: Once you cross, expect a wide array of re-hydration and cooling options, alongside our comprehensive medical teams ready to assist anyone who needs it.

Course Conditions

We are monitoring the wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) to not only stay on top of the heat index, but to also follow the gold standard for heat stress. The WBGT reading will correspond with the course conditions and be communicated through the Event Alert System. That system will display Green (go), Yellow (caution), and Black (course closed) via flags at each aid station during the race. For updates on conditions as they happen, please download the race app – notifications will go out on the app if the WBGT reading warrants a change in status.

More about the Event Alert System and our weather policy can be found here.

Racing Strategy: Effort Over Pace

The combination of our signature elevation and the heat means your body will have to work harder than usual. If the hills or the heat are new to you, respect them. Listen to your body, walk when you need to, and pull back your effort before you overheat.

If you are running and conditions deteriorate due to heat:

• Slow down immediately and run by effort, not pace.
• Drink at every aid station and continue to consume electrolytes either through energy drink or gels/food.
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, and headache
• Watch for signs of heat stroke: confusion, disorientation, hot/dry skin, loss off consciousness – this is a medical emergency, call 911.
• If you or a fellow runner experience any of these symptoms, go to the nearest aid station immediately or call 911.

Tough Enough to Start. Smart Enough to Stop.

If race day heat pushes you past the limit, be smart and stop. We’ve got your back.

To withdraw while still on the course – tell the nearest aid station captain so they can record your bib number. You can walk back to the finish, or make your way to the Somerset aid station (mile 18.5 for full and 7.7 for half) and a shuttle will return you to the finish area.

And if it looks like your going to miss the race time cut off limit, don’t stress, just walk your way back to the finish line. Folks who miss the time cut will be eligible for our Run it Back 2027 Program where we are offering discounted entry to next year’s race to those who withdraw after starting this year. This is to help prevent runners from pushing through heat stress and creating a medical emergency.

The mountains will be here next year, so should you.

See you at the start line!

The post The Heat is On! Runner Information Regarding Warm Temps appeared first on Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon.

Every race has front runners. They’re fast, focused, and incredible to watch. But every runner who toes the start line for the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon signs up for the same climbs, the same descents, the same struggle. Everyone earns their miles on these mountains. And so, we are giving love to the middle of the pack.

Middle-of-the-pack runners show up to #RunBlueRidge with grit, humor, and determination. They’re balancing busy jobs, families, injuries, and early morning alarms just to get their miles in. Middle-of-the-packers aren’t likely to podium. Middle-of-the-packers aren’t likely to PR (not with this elevation change).

The reason middle-of-the-packers show up to #RunBlueRidge is to finish strong, and prove to themselves they can do hard things.

And at this race, doing hard things is the whole point. “Complete, not compete” is our mantra.

Middle-of-the-pack runners embody that spirit perfectly. They pace the climbs, take in the views, high-five volunteers, and cheer for the runners around them. They’re out there for the experience as much as the finish line—and they make the race feel less like a competition and more like a community adventure.

That’s why we created the Middle-of-the-Pack Award.

In each distance: Anthem Star 10K, Foot Levelers Half Marathon, Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon, and Altra Blue Ridge Double Marathon, we celebrate the one runner (male, female, or non-binary) who crosses the finish line in the middle of their distance. It’s our way of recognizing that the middle isn’t average. It’s essential.

This year, we’re making the celebration even better. Each Middle-of-the-Pack winner will be met at the finish with some extra celebration and will take home a brand-new pair of Altra running shoes.

Because if anyone deserves fresh kicks for their next adventure, it’s the runners who keep showing up for the challenge.

Stay tuned to hear what we’ve got in store for the back of the pack.

The post Middle-of-the-Pack Award presented by Altra appeared first on Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon.

Three weeks ahead of race day, race organizers will be up on Mill Mountain cheering on runners with a pop-up aid station from 8:30-11am. So, if you’re out scoping out the route and getting in one of your last long runs ahead of the race, make sure you run by the star for a high-five and some treats!

Fleet Feet Roanoke will be at River’s Edge North with their usual training runs, beginning at 8am. Run with them, or run on your own schedule!

See who’s running that day!

The post Long Run Day Announced : March 28th appeared first on Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon.

We often keep our swag a secret – it’s been a tradition that made packet pick-up extra exciting. Well, after a quick poll on social media last week, we realized that runners want to see the shirts! And, packet pick-up will still be plenty exciting.

And so, thanks to Recover Brands, our official impact partner, we can reveal this year’s sustainable swag.

This is the ECO tee in navy, with both unisex and women’s-specific shirt sizes available. The design perfectly conveys the metro-mountain race route, the vibes, and -of course- the amazing accomplishments of our runners (peep that elevation change!)

Anyone wishing to get one of these at packet pick-up should register by 11:59 PM EST on Thursday, March 5th.

Now, without furth ado… Here are your 2026 Race Shirts!

The post Participant Shirts Revealed! appeared first on Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon.

Looking for a getaway that pairs a world-class running challenge with a perfect weekend visiting Top Mountain Town, Roanoke, VA?  Look no further than the Foot Leveler Blue Ridge Marathon Racecation weekend, April 17-19.

Racecation (n.) –  a getaway weekend to run a race and experience an exciting destination.

This racecation itinerary comes with bragging rights, incredible live music, unique events, and luxury accommodations.

Want to win the ultimate Roanoke Racecation?

The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Racecation Giveaway is on now through February 18. Here’s how to enter:

• Register for the race – any distance from Anthem Star 10K to the Full Goat (required) → 1 entry

  • Do this and you’re entered. You only have to do more if you want to increase your odds!

• Share the giveaway post on Instagram or Facebook→ 1 entry

• Tag 3 friends in the comments of the giveaway posts → 1 entry per friend

• Tell us why you’re running America’s Toughest Road Race this year → 1 entry

• Follow @colonyhousemotorlodge on Instagram → 1 entry

The Prize! One winner will be announced on Feb. 19th and receive:

• A two-night stay at Colony House Motor Lodge (April 17–19)

• Two tickets to see Galactic (April 18)

• Two free entries to America’s Slowest 5k Presented by Altra (April 19)

Ok, now for the itinerary…

Friday, April 17th: Arrive & Get Settled

Welcome to Virginia’s Blue Ridge! Whether you’re arriving by car, train, or plane, plan your movements around easy access to Elmwood Park. Elmwood is your spot for the packet pick-up and race expo (3-8pm), and it’s the start/finish on race day.

-> Pro tip: Fly into ROA airport. It is a 15-minute drive to Elmwood Park. Or, if you like train travel, arrive by Amtrak. The station is downtown and just a short 10-minute walk to the park. Both options are quick, efficient, and will minimize headaches as you get into your weekend.

Where to Stay: Pull up to the coolest new spot in town!

When you’re traveling for a race as iconic as the Blue Ridge Marathon, choosing a locally owned place to stay not only keeps your dollars in the Roanoke community — it also gives your racecation way more character than a generic hotel ever could.

A standout option for runners this year is the brand new Colony House Motel Lodge, an historic mid-century landmark motel that was just reimagined into Roanoke’s most effortlessly cool, creative stay.

Our favorite things about Colony House:

1. It is just an 8-minute car trip to Elmwood Park.
2. Rooms feature upscale furnishings by the local furniture makers at Txtur (swing by their show room downtown, and snag a bite and a cocktail at their restaurant, Stock, for the full experience!).
3. Each space is stocked with amenities and upscale retro charm.

Looking for a laid-back vibe with thoughtful luxuries to perfectly match your race-weekend energy? Then, stay at Colony House. For a special rate at the Colony House, head to their website and use code: BRM.

For other options, check out the full hotel portal here, and when you reserve through the portal, part of your reservation will go into our fundraising efforts for the non-profits who volunteer on race day!

Kickoff Fun:
Once you’re checked in, head to Elmwood Park for packet pickup and the Welcome Party. This outdoor market-style expo is the perfect way to pick up your bib and race merch and meeting up with fitness vendors. You can also grab a local brew and enjoy free live music, part of the Freedom First Down by Downtown Music Festival that runs throughout race weekend.

With more than 50 locally-owned restaurants within walking or quick-car-ride distance, Friday night is the perfect opportunity to fuel up and soak in the Roanoke scene before race day. Find out about dining options here.

Saturday, April 18th: Race Day — America’s Toughest Road Marathon

Race morning starts early in Elmwood Park with an electric atmosphere. No matter which distance you’ve chosen, this course is legendary for both challenge and scenery.

Why it’s epic (in case you weren’t aware):

• The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon has more elevation change (over 7,400 feet) than any other road marathon in the U.S., earning it the title “America’s Toughest Road Marathon.”

• You’ll climb three scenic peaks through Roanoke neighborhoods and along the famed Blue Ridge Parkway before finishing strong in downtown. And all along the route is an epic community of race fans at both sanctioned and rogue aid stations and throughout the city.

-> Pro-tip: The race motto is “Complete, don’t compete.” We highly recommend stopping for photos, walking the steeper sections, and enjoying the champagne toast at the top of Peakwood (if you’re 21+, of course).

After the finish:

Crossing the line isn’t the end — it’s just the start of the celebration. Enjoy the Finish Festival to it’s fullest with a free beer, a visit to the runner’s food tent, music, vendors, and recovery activities like massages, compression boots, and stretching sessions.

Saturday Night: Post-Race Party that’s out of this world.

After you head back to your hotel room to nap and shower (did we mention the water pressure at Colony House is next level?), it’s time to celebrate conquering the toughest miles of your life. This year, we’re happy to share that the post-race party comes with a serious groove.

Galactic, featuring Jelly Joseph

Head back to Elmwood Park for an unforgettable night of live music featuring Galactic, the legendary New Orleans funk band known for high-energy performances, deep grooves, and irresistible dance vibes. Runners with their bibs or medals get in for just $20 (everyone else is $45). It’s the perfect way to shake out tired legs, celebrate big accomplishments, and soak up the electric post-race energy alongside fellow runners, new friends, and local music-lovers. And hey, if your legs won’t dance (who could blame them), there’s plenty of space to stretch out on the hill and soak in the show.

The Freedom First Down by Downtown Music Festival transforms downtown Roanoke into a full-on celebration. Visit at least one or two shows (including Galactic!) and enjoy being a celebrity as Roanoke celebrates race weekend. Dozens of venues each year all across downtown Roanoke book top acts and put together events designed to welcome visitors, cheer for runners, and show off what we love best about our fair city.

From mountain miles to funk-filled dance moves and the friendliest community, April 18th is shaping up to be a day to remember.

Sunday, April 19th: America’s Slowest 5K Presented by Altra

By Sunday morning, the pressure is off and that’s exactly the point. The America’s Slowest 5k Presented by Altra is Blue Ridge Marathon’s love letter to runners. It’s about recovery, community, and savoring the weekend just a little longer.

This untimed, no-stress 5K takes place along the scenic Roanoke River Greenway, offering roughly 3.1 flat miles, fresh air, and plenty of laughs. Expect Altra running shoe demos, goat yoga, flower leis, and immaculate vibes. The start/finish area is Black Dog Salvage, one of Roanoke’s most unique and beloved spots for art and furnishings (and home of DIY Network’s Salvage Dawgs).

At the Slow-K, everyone gets a donut and cup of coffee. Some runners jog, some walk, some shuffle — and all are welcome. How to win? Be the last person to cross the line and go home with a new pair of Altras.

Stick around after for mimosas and wander through Black Dog’s galleries and show room. Then, when you’re ready to leave this friendly, adventure town, make your way back home with an extra spring in your step for having conquered America’s Toughest Road Races and having had the best best time while doing it.

Remember, to enter to win this racecation itinerary for free – all you have to do is register for any distance by February 18th at 11:59 PM EST!

The post Racecation 2026 appeared first on Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon.

America’s Toughest Road Marathon Isn’t for Everyone–and That’s the Point.

If you’re searching for “flat and fast,” we’ll be the first to tell you — this ain’ it.

At race expos, a lot of people see us and walk the other way. This is, after all, America’s Toughest Road Marathon. This race has earned its reputation (and was even named in Runner’s Worlds’ Worlds’ Toughest Races) for the relentless elevation change. It elicits a visceral reaction to the average runner.
“Uh-uh, too many hills.”
“Oh, this race? No thank you.”

It is, however, an extremely rewarding race with real elevation and real meaning. And, it’s an enticing destination event with a central East Coast location in gorgeous southwest Virginia–easy for travel by Amtrak, air, and Interstate-81.

Year after year, runners vote the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon as the Best Running Event in the Blue Ridge. Not just once. Not just out of novelty. But consistently.

They’re not just voting, either. They’re coming back to run year after year.

Why Runner’s Return to One of the Hardest Marathons in the World

In an industry where many races struggle with retention, the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon stands out among US races for its unusually high return rate. According to RunSignUp’s latest industry report, 17.4% of 2023 participants returned to the same event in 2024. At Blue Ridge, that number was nearly double. In 2024, 34% of our runners were returners — choosing, once again, to take on one of the hardest road marathons in the world.

Each year, runners travel from more than 40 states to take on the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon, making it one of the most recognized destination races in Virginia and the surrounding region. We regularly welcome runners from adjacent states like North Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, Maryland, as well those from all corners of the US like New York, Illinois, Texas, and even Alaska, all drawn by the same question: Can I do this?

So why?

Why do people keep choosing this race? And, why do they call it the best?

A Virginia Marathon Built on Community, Not Convenience

In a world increasingly built around convenience, efficiency, and finding the easiest possible way from start to finish, the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon asks the opposite. It asks runners to commit to something hard. To train through winter’s cold and darkness. To prepare for elevation that’s difficult to replicate on an average run. To face a race that tests not just physical fitness, but patience, grit, and mindset. And, after all that, to arrive on race day knowing full well this will not be their fastest race time.

Still, people return.

That choice says something important about doing hard things.

The running community has seen this phenomenon before in trail races and ultramarathons, those legendary suffer fests where runners willingly spend days on their feet, navigating mountains, fatigue, and far less glamorous logistics. What’s unique about Blue Ridge is that same spirit showing up on a road marathon start line.

Here, you’ll find experienced ultrarunners standing shoulder to shoulder with first-time road racers. You’ll see runners chasing a personal edge next to runners chasing a finish. Seasoned elites, and eager beginners. Different goals, different backgrounds — one shared challenge.
And that’s where the magic happens.

What truly sets the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon apart isn’t just the difficult course, it is how that difficulty is shared. Runners don’t face the miles alone. They’re met with volunteers who know exactly where encouragement matters most. Local spectators who show up year after year to cheer on strangers by name. And, of course, fellow runners who share solidarity on the climbs and genuine celebration at the finish.

The challenge becomes collective.

The combination of a demanding course paired with a deeply supportive community is why this race continues to resonate. Runners return not to prove something to others, but to reconnect with something that’s harder to find elsewhere: belonging through effort, pride through persistence, and joy through shared struggle.

Being named Best Running Event in the Blue Ridge while remaining one of the hardest races in the world speaks to something bigger than an award. It reflects a community that values grit, authenticity, and the belief that hard things are worth doing, especially when we do them together.

It isn’t about choosing the easiest path.
It’s about choosing the meaningful one — together.

—–

A Destination Race for Runners Across the Southeast and Beyond

April 18, 2026

6 distances:

• Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon
• Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Half Marathon
• Freedom First Team Relay
• Anthem Star 10K
• Altra Blue Ridge Double Marathon
• Carilion Children’s Family One Miler

Discount for reading this blog? You bet. Use code “BlueRidgeTough” for 20% off registration – ends 11:59pm EST on January 31^st.

Weekend Bonuses:

The Freedom First Down by Downtown Festival offers live music throughout race weekend with runners getting discounted tickets to the headline event.

America’s Slowest 5K presented by Altra is an epic recovery run and can’t-miss community event.

The post Why this East Coast Marathon Keeps Winning Best Running Event appeared first on Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon.

People run Blue Ridge for the challenge and the bragging rights, but what most people find out is that the community is what makes it truly special. Whether you’re lining up with a longtime running buddy or convincing a first‑timer to take on the hills, racing together and meeting other runners along the course makes the experience even better.

Speaking of running together, we’ve made it easy (and rewarding) to invite friends and loved ones to join you on race day.

How the Referral Program Works

We use RunSignUp’s built‑in referral system to make sharing the race simple.

After you register, you’ll receive a confirmation email from RunSignUp. Inside that email is your personal referral link. All you have to do is copy that link and share it with friends, family, training partners, coworkers — anyone you think might be up for an unforgettable race experience.

Here’s the perk:

• For every 5 people who register using your referral link, you’ll earn a $20 refund on your race registration.

That’s it! There’s no extra sign‑up, no codes to remember, and no tracking on your end. RunSignUp automatically keeps count of how many people use your link and applies the refund once you hit five referrals. Easy motivation to grow your crew and save a little cash.

So, head to your confirmation email (make sure you’ve signed up! ;)), find your referral link, and start sharing!

Other Ways to Help Grow the Blue Ridge Marathon Community

Beyond referrals, there are lots of ways to be part of what makes the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon more than just a race. If you’re looking to connect, give back, or inspire others, here are a few great ways to get involved:

1. Share Your Training Journey

Training for the Blue Ridge Marathon is an accomplishment in itself. Share your long runs, hill workouts, struggles, and wins on social media — and tag @blueridgemarathon on Facebook or Instagram so we can cheer you on and share the love.

Bonus: If you have a unique perspective, background, or following and are interested in collaborating on content, we’d love to hear from you. Send us an email and let’s see if it’s a good fit.

2. Join America’s Toughest Running Club

When you register for the Blue Ridge Marathon, you’re automatically part of America’s Toughest Running Club. Head over to the Facebook Group to connect with fellow runners, swap training tips, celebrate milestones, and find motivation from people who know exactly what these mountains demand.

3. Volunteer on Race Weekend

Volunteers are the heartbeat of race weekend. While it’s difficult to volunteer for aid stations and course support while you’re running, there are plenty of volunteer opportunities in the days leading up to race day to help make race day unforgettable for yourself and for thousands of runners.

4. Share Your “Why”

Everyone has a reason for showing up to the start line. Whether it’s a personal challenge, a tribute, a comeback, or a lifelong dream, we want to hear it. Submit your story through our “Why I’m Racing” form.

The Blue Ridge Marathon is built by runners, volunteers, and supporters who believe in doing hard things together. Share the race, earn rewards, and help grow a community that’s as strong as the course itself.

The post Run Together appeared first on Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon.

If you’ve ever crossed the finish line of the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon, you already know: this isn’t just another race. With over 7,400 feet of elevation change, punishing climbs, quad-busting descents, and relentless views, it’s earned its moniker—America’s Toughest Road Marathon—the hard way.

But don’t just take our word for it. Runner’s World listed the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon among the “World’s Toughest Races”—yes, world. Among this group of races are trail races in extreme climates, ultras with excessive distances, and -you guessed it- plenty of elevation. But are there road races? Just two, and unless you have 52 days to run the same route over and over, the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon is the toughest you can get on asphalt. Read the Runner’s World article here (subscription required).

Also included:

• HURT 100 Trail Run
• Iditarod Trail Invitational
• 6633 Arctic Ultra
• Marathon des Sables
• Everest Marathon
• Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run
• Badwater 135
• Hardrock 100-Mile Endurance Run
• Eastern States 100
• Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc
• Self-Transcendence 3,100 Mile
• Dragon’s Back Race
• The Plain 100
• Tor des Geants
• Pikes Peak Ascent & Marathon
• Spartathlon
• Moab 240
• La Diagonale des Fous

That puts you, our runners, in world-class company. Whether you ran the full, half, 10K, relay, or took on something wild like the Double or the Full GOAT, you chose a challenge most wouldn’t dare.

Why does that matter?

Because in a world full of easy wins, you picked the hard way. You chose the grind, the burn, the summit. You’re not here for PRs—you’re here for perspective. For the kind of finish line that hits a little deeper because it demanded more of you.

And that makes you part of something rare.
You’re not just a marathoner.
You’re a Blue Ridge Marathoner.

Want to earn your spot among the legends?
Join us next April in Roanoke and see what it’s like to take on one of the world’s toughest races.
Register Now →

The post Why the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Is One of the World’s Toughest Races (And Why That Makes You Awesome) appeared first on Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon.

At the 16th Running of the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon, runners and volunteers shared photos with us so we could enjoy the race from their point of view. The submissions did not disappoint. From early morning moments with the doublers to aid station selfies and finish line celebrations, it was awesome to relive the experience from your POV.

We added those shots to some we received in the 15th running.

Care to join the community supporting America’s Toughest Road Race? Join on Facebook, here.

Registration for the 17th running is open, now. Sign up early to lock in the current rate.

Check out America’s Toughest Running Club Gallery here:

The post BRM From Your POV appeared first on Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon.

2025 Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon: A Homegrown Event with National Reach and Lasting Local Impact

This isn’t just the toughest road marathon in America. It’s one of the most powerful weekends of the year for Roanoke—fueling our economy, energizing our streets, and reminding us why we love this place. Under clear blue skies, the 2025 Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon brought thousands of runners, volunteers, and spectators together to celebrate community, challenge, and the spirit of the Blue Ridge.

A Weekend of Wins—On and Off the Course

Perfect running weather inspired a flood of course PRs as athletes conquered America’s Toughest Road Marathon with grit and joy. A new course re-route through Highland Park brought fresh scenery and renewed community energy, complete with beloved rogue aid stations offering everything from snacks to saxophone solos. These unsanctioned but spirited stops reflected the grassroots charm that sets this event apart.

The Hip Abduction’s vibrant performance (headline event for the Freedom First Down by Downtown Festival) turned the finish line at Elmwood Park into a celebration zone with immaculate vibes. And the next day, the Slow K (presented by official shoe sponsor, Altra) at Black Dog Salvage kept the fun going—proving that the Blue Ridge spirit is really all about completing, not competing.

Economic and Charitable Impact

In just one weekend, the marathon generated:

• $1.7 million in economic impact for the Roanoke Region ($12.9 million cumulative since 2010)
• $10,700 donated to local charities ($236,950 total since inception)
• Representation from 40 states, bringing new visitors and attention to our region
• Support from 551 dedicated volunteers (filling 599 total shifts), powering the event and welcoming participants like family

More Than a Race—A Showcase for Roanoke

Few events introduce Roanoke to newcomers—and reconnect locals to what they love—quite like this one. The community comes together to roll out the red carpet—not just for runners, but for their families, travel companions, and supporters who explore our restaurants, breweries, trails, and cultural assets while they’re here.

Locals, too, find themselves re-inspired. Whether volunteering at an aid station, running a first relay leg, or just soaking in the energy downtown, residents reconnect with the region’s beauty, hospitality, and active lifestyle. These small moments become lasting impressions—and turn participants and volunteers into ambassadors for Roanoke.

To generate this level of economic, charitable, and emotional impact in one weekend, through a homegrown event, is no small feat—and it’s possible only because of our powerful community of supporters.

Thank You to Our Partners

Your partnership makes this all possible. We’re incredibly grateful to the sponsors who invest in the mission behind the miles: Foot Levelers, Anthem, Freedom First, Carilion, Altra, Recover, Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Fleet Feet Roanoke, Gentry Locke, Play Roanoke, Parkway Brewing, Light Strike, Big Lick Brewing, Athletic Brewing, Blue Ridge Beverage, Martin’s Downtown, Tidy, Blue Ridge Outdoors, and Virginia is For Lovers.

The post 2025 Race Report: Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon appeared first on Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon.