Metro Richmond named a 'Runner Friendly Community'

Metro Richmond officially has been designated a Runner Friendly Community by the Road Runners Club of America.

Sports Backers and the Richmond Road Runners Club applied to be recognized, and nationally acclaimed professional runner Keira D’Amato and Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney were among the individuals showing support during the application process. Other supporting groups and individuals included Katherine O’Donnell, executive vice president of Richmond Region Tourism; Jeff Wells, owner of Fleet Feet Richmond; Neil Amin, chief executive officer of Shamin Hotels; and Anthony and Tara Clary, co-founders of We Off the Couch Fitness Group.

As a Runner Friendly Community, Richmond will be listed on the RRCA website and will receive a commemorative plaque. The region will be featured in a national press release from the RRCA and in the RRCA Annual Report, will receive window decals to be placed in runner-friendly businesses, and will be able to use the RRCA Runner Friendly Community logo.

When reviewing applications, RRCA looked at the such aspects as community infrastructure, community support, and local government support. Each of these segments had a list of requirements that Runner Friendly Communities must meet to be considered.

“The journey of a life in running has taken me around the U.S. and the world, and all the while, Richmond has been home for me and my family. The infrastructure, accessibility, and community support in Richmond provide me with everything I need to train and compete at a high level while staying engaged with the local running community,” D’Amato said.