VALLEY FORGE — The Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board collected a record $80,000 for Valley Forge National Historical Park from the 18th annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run (Rev Run) and 2-mile walk.
More than 1,200 runners and walkers from 19 different U.S. states took part in this year’s hybrid event, contributing to the record-breaking donation. One hundred percent of race proceeds support Valley Forge National Historical Park.
Since it began in 2006, Rev Run has raised almost $700,000 for park infrastructure improvement projects and programming to enhance visitor experience. This year's funds will go towards signage and park furnishings to improve wayfinding and navigation throughout the park in preparation for America 250 celebrations in 2026.
Pre-event remarks at a Start Line Experience, hosted by Highmark Blue Shield, began the 5-mile race and 2-mile walk. Ken Lawrence, senior vice president of Corporate Affairs for Highmark Blue Shield in Southeastern Pennsylvania, said, “Highmark Blue Shield is proud to partner with the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board as a sponsor of the Valley Forge Revolutionary Run/Walk.”
“Highmark is committed to healthier, brighter, stronger communities, and supporting one of our region’s premier races and our local national treasure, Valley Forge Historical Park, shows that commitment.”
The exclusive Finish Line Experience, sponsored by Elmwood Park Zoo, hosted post-race festivities including food and beer trucks, a plein air artist, and more. Elmwood Park Zoo’s President and CEO Al Zone said, “Elmwood Park Zoo is proud to be a sponsor once again for this amazing event. We support Rev Run every year, but the Zoo is even more excited this year as it helps us kick off our 100th Anniversary celebration.”
All participants received a finisher medal or walk challenge coin, and a Revolutionary Run commemorative t-shirt. Cash prizes totaling $1,400 were awarded to the top three male and female finishers of the in-person part of the race. This year, the top three male and female finishers for each age group also received a pair of Goodr running sunglasses. The VFTCB also proudly hosted its oldest runner to date, an 89-year-old.
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More than 1,200 runners and walkers from 19 different U.S. states took part in this year’s 18th annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run and 2-mile walk. (Photo by Dylan Eddinger)
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Emcee Adam Joseph, 6abc meteorologist, announces winners at the 18th annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run and 2-mile walk. (Photo by Dylan Eddinger)
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Monty the Fox poses with runners at the 18th annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run and 2-mile walk. (Photo by Dylan Eddinger)
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In addition to the in-person events, the VFTCB offers a virtual component of the race, which coincides with National Park Week. Registrants can participate virtually from anywhere in the world between April 21 and April 28.
Valley Forge National Historical Park has a big economic impact on the area, usually providing $36 million and hundreds of jobs to the local economy.
More details about the Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run can be found at www.revolutionaryrun.org or by following on social media: @ValleyForgeRevolutionaryRun, @VisitValleyForge (Facebook), and @VisitValleyForge (Instagram).
