A standup paddleboarder at last year’s James River Rundown. Credit: Jameson Brunkow

2016 marked the third year of the James River Rundown, an annual event organized by the James River Association. The James River Rundown’s popularity has grown since the inaugural 100-mile race in 2014. Nearly 100 individuals from across Virginia and the United States participated in last year’s event.

The 2017 James River Rundown features a grueling two-day 120-mile endurance race that begins the morning of June 24th at Riveredge Park in Lynchburg, Virginia. The 120-mile race is one of the longest of its kind on the East Coast.

According to Justin Doyle, Community Conservation Manager of the James River Association and one of the event’s organizers: “The James River Rundown showcases the beauty of the James while promoting river recreation. It’s an opportunity for participants to explore the James while racing through rapids in canoes, kayaks, and even on standup paddleboards.”

In addition to the 120-mile race, this year’s event also features a one-day 50-mile race starting in Scottsville on the 24th, a 25-mile race on June 25th starting at Cartersville and ending at Goochland County’s Tucker Park, and also on the 25th a 5-mile float starting at Powhatan State Park.

All three races finish at Goochland County’s Tucker Park for a family-friendly post-race celebration featuring food, beverage, and live music on Sunday, June 25th.

Registration for the 2017 James River Rundown is open! Visit www.JamesRiverRundown.org to register. Proceeds from the James River Rundown benefit the James River Association.