Salem, Virginia to Host Annual LewisGale Salem Races This Weekend
Over 700 participants are expected to compete in the 10th annual LewisGale Salem Half Marathon, Virginia’s Blue Ridge 8K, and G&H Contracting Kids Fun Run this Saturday, October 11, in Salem, Virginia.
The races will begin and end at the Salem Farmers Market (3 E. Main Street, Salem, VA 24153), taking runners through downtown Salem, Roanoke College, and surrounding neighborhoods. Virtual race options are available for all distances. Registration fees are currently $95 for the Half Marathon, $65 for the 8K, and $20 for the Kids Fun Run, with prices increasing October 8. Completing the half marathon is one step toward earning the Virginia’s Blue Ridge Triple Crown, a challenge for dedicated runners in the region.
The event supports local charities, having donated $23,000 over the past nine years to organizations like the Salem Food Pantry. Participants are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations when picking up race packets or on race day. Volunteers are still needed to assist with various roles, including course marshaling and aid stations; more information can be found on the Blue Ridge Racing website.
Road closures will begin at 5:00am on Saturday. Walk-up registration is open from 6:30am–7:30am, with the Half Marathon and 8K starting at 8:00am and the Fun Run at 8:10am. Organizers remind residents to plan accordingly for potential traffic disruptions. For more information on running events in the Commonwealth, visit Virginia is for Lovers – Running Events.
Officials stated that race packets can be picked up Friday evening and encouraged participants to review the list of affected roads on the race website.
