Hanover’s Perspective
RVA to DC Takes Cyclists on Tour of Virginia
An inaugural ‘RVA to DC’ cycling event, a two-day ride on July 23-24, from Richmond to Arlington, VA, will help support bike and pedestrian safety and infrastructure projects throughout Virginia. Official event charities will include bike advocacy groups in areas along the course, including Sports Backers’ Bike Walk RVA organization.
“I am excited to help introduce the first RVA to DC ride, and I am convinced that this great event will continue for many years to come,” said Governor McAuliffe. “This is a tremendous opportunity to showcase Virginia’s natural beauty, thriving communities, and world-class tourist destinations. It’s also a great example of how we are building a new Virginia economy through teamwork and strategic investments that improve the quality of life for our citizens and attract thousands of visitors to the Commonwealth every year.”
The two-day ride will start at Sports Backers Stadium and take participants on a 156-mile route from the capital of Virginia to the nation’s capital, finishing in Rosslyn adjacent to the Key Bridge with dramatic views of Washington, D.C. On day one, riders will travel 75 miles through Lakeside, U.S. Bike Route 1, Ashland, and Caroline and Spotsylvania counties before ending on a paved multi-use trail in Old Mill Park in downtown Fredericksburg along the Rappahannock River. Day two will take riders across the Rappahannock into Stafford County and Quantico for 35 miles of rural riding and paved trails, followed by low-speed roads through Manassas before a totally unbroken network of paved trails in Centerville at mile 46. These trails will take riders all the way to the finish festival at Gateway Park at the base of the Key Bridge. For a complete map of the route and turn-by-turn route instructions, visit here.
“RVA to DC will showcase some of the best outdoor adventure highlights and historic sites in the Commonwealth,” said Rita McClenny, President and CEO of the Virginia Tourism Corporation. “Virginia has so much to offer visitors, including culture, performing arts, great culinary experiences, and outdoor activities, and RVA to DC will be another great addition for visitors.”
“Events like RVA to DC are right in line with Sports Backers’ mission to build a more active community,” said Jon Lugbill, Executive Director of Sports Backers. “This ride will also have the added incentive of allowing participants to bike for their right towards safe and accessible bike infrastructure throughout the Commonwealth.”
Registration for ‘RVA to DC’ is now available, and includes course routing, baggage transportation (up to 2 bags), overnight camping in Fredericksburg, participant item, finisher medal, food/hydration stations every 15-20 miles, SAG supports, and a post-ride celebration with a complimentary meal and drink. More information on the ride can be found here.