ALEXANDRIA, Va. — More than 7,500 running enthusiasts of all ages hit the pavement on Sunday for the 40th Anniversary of the PNC Parkway Classic.
The race brings in thousands of runners as well as spectators from all over the D.C. Metro area for the unique experience of running on the historic George Washington Memorial Parkway during spring.
"We have runners from very little tykes all the way to the 80s," said Pacers Running CEO Kathy Dalby. "This is a rite of spring for a lot of people in the running community out here."
Among the 5K finishers – Daphne Zingerline and her dad Craig, who brought the entire family because it was a fun activity to do together.
"I think it’s just fun. It gets you moving, it’s motivating when you see the finish line," said Daphne.
Craig says he's a proud dad watching his kids cross the finish line.
"Just the challenge of being out and seeing the kids progress and just have fun with it. It’s all about having fun," he said.
There were plenty of runners pushing strollers and ones who brought their four-legged friends, like Aaron Steiner, who says bringing his dog Luna was a no brainer.
"Luna loves to run," Steiner said, "and she also loves people."
The courses range from a 5K to a 10-mile run, and there is a chance for some unique scenery along the way. It starts in Mount Vernon Estate, goes down the George Washington Memorial Parkway and through Old Town Alexandria – one of the many draws of this race.
"We live along the parkway so we thought it would be a great opportunity to be outside on beautiful day," said Steiner.
Dalby says the race has raised more than a million dollars for charities in the area – most notably, the Boys and Girls Club of Alexandria.