4Y5K: Community of Care

The "4Y5K: Community of Care" race returns to Charlottesville, Virginia on November 21st, bringing together the University of Virginia community and local residents for a meaningful run through the historic streets that echo with both tradition and progress. Nestled among iconic landmarks like the Rotunda and the Corner, this five-kilometer road race has been a beloved part of UVA’s fourth-year celebration since its inception by Peer Health Educators.
On race day, runners will find themselves in a vibrant tapestry of autumn hues as leaves fall from the trees around town. The crisp air carries hints of woodsmoke and freshly brewed coffee while sun rays slant through foggy mornings, setting an atmospheric backdrop for the event's warm community spirit. Participants are greeted by locals who have come out to cheer on friends and neighbors alike, creating a palpable sense of unity as everyone comes together in support.
This year marks another chapter in the race’s enduring legacy, with hundreds expected to line up at the starting line. Since its debut, the 4Y5K has not only grown in popularity but also earned recognition for promoting bystander intervention strategies across Grounds and fostering a culture of care within the broader Charlottesville community. The event is more than just a run; it’s an annual celebration honoring the resilience and compassion that define this place.
The course begins at Scott Stadium, winding through familiar pathways on UVA's campus before heading into downtown Charlottesville. Runners will traverse smooth paved surfaces with minimal inclines, making for a manageable yet scenic route lined by iconic buildings and lush greenery characteristic of Central Virginia’s landscape. Notable features include the historic Old Cabell Hall, where students gather to watch performances year-round, adding an element of shared history as you jog past.
Race day typically sees mild weather conditions with temperatures ranging from just above freezing in early morning hours up into mid-teens by afternoon. Winds are generally moderate but can vary depending on specific microclimates within the city limits. With a chance for light rainfall and firm trail surfaces, runners should anticipate potentially damp ground underfoot due to recent precipitation patterns typical of late fall Virginia weather.

For those looking to participate in this year’s edition of 4Y5K: Community of Care Race, registration opens with fees set at $20.00 per participant for the five-kilometer distance. To secure your spot and receive all necessary details about race day logistics, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/Charlottesville/4thYear5k to register online. Be sure to complete your registration by October 31st to avoid missing out on this cherished tradition.
On the morning of November 21st, bib pickup will be available at Memorial Gymnasium from 7:00 AM until race start time with proper identification required for confirmation purposes. All runners are encouraged to arrive early and familiarize themselves with the course layout prior to starting times slated between 8:30-9:00 AM sharp.
The official start location is located at Scott Stadium, situated on Emmet Street in Charlottesville, VA where all participants will convene amidst vibrant pre-race excitement. Age requirements are open for anyone eighteen years and older unless accompanied by a parent or guardian; however, no strollers or pets are allowed along the route due to safety considerations.
As you lace up your shoes one cool morning this November, prepare not only physically but also mentally to join fellow runners in embracing the spirit of care that defines Charlottesville. The 4Y5K: Community of Care Race offers a unique blend of athletic challenge and communal engagement, making it an essential event for anyone invested in fostering stronger connections within our vibrant community come race day.
The "4Y5K: Community of Care" returns to Charlottesville on November 21st, embodying the essence of unity and purpose that this city so proudly upholds.