Virginia Run for Cancer

The Virginia Run for Cancer 2026 is a 24-hour endurance event scheduled to begin on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 7:00 AM. Held at the Sandy Bottom Nature Park in Hampton, Virginia, the race follows a flat, USATF-certified 3.75-mile dirt trail loop (VA12075RT). Participants can compete as solo individuals or as part of a team, with the primary goal of accumulating as many miles as possible within the 24-hour window. The event serves as a significant fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, having raised over $310,000 to date. Registration is limited to 200 participants to maintain the quality of the trail experience and support services.

Hampton is an independent city in the Commonwealth of Virginia with a population of approximately 137,000 residents. It is part of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area and is home to Langley Air Force Base and the Virginia Air and Space Center. The demographic profile of Hampton is approximately 49.1% Black or African American, 39.6% White (Non-Hispanic), 6.2% Hispanic or Latino, 2.4% Asian, and 3.4% Two or More Races. The median annual household income for the city is roughly $61,500. Geographically, the race takes place within the 456-acre Sandy Bottom Nature Park, which features reclaimed land turned into a lush wetland and forest preserve. The climate in late April in coastal Virginia is typically mild; average temperatures range from a low of 11°C (52°F) to a high of 21°C (70°F). High humidity is common, and runners are advised to bring flashlights for the overnight portion of the event.

The race emphasizes community and accessibility, welcoming walkers of all abilities alongside elite ultrarunners. For the 2026 edition, team members register individually while noting their team affiliation, and the team with the highest combined mileage earns a spot on the Perpetuity Plaque. While on-site liquid refreshments are provided, runners are responsible for their own food and hydration, though pizza is traditionally provided for dinner. Pacers are allowed to join runners on the course after dark for safety and motivation. Registration for the 2026 event closes on April 19, though the race often reaches its 200-person capacity well before the deadline. Participants who deferred from the 2025 event should contact the Race Director, Tim Scott, to confirm their entry.