Dear Friends of the James River Park

Registration for the 2023 Wood River Run is now open! In memory of Christian Wood, a talented young kayaker who lost his life while kayaking on the James in 2018, this year’s race will take place on April 15th at Pony Pasture. The course will be roughly similar to last year’s race. It will take runners and walkers along Riverside Drive towards Huguenot Flatwater with a loop through some well maintained trails near the turnaround. This is a casual event where strollers, leashed dogs and walking are welcome.

We are especially grateful to our title sponsor, the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, for returning to support the event again this year. We are currently seeking additional sponsorship partners to help us reach our fundraising goals for this event. If you would like to learn more please contact me at josh@jamesriverpark.org.

Proceeds from this year’s event will support a few different initiatives through Friends of the James River Park and the Christian Wood Scholarship Fund. Friends of the James River Park is the largest nonprofit organization supporting the protection, expansion, and enhancement of the James River Park System. The Christian Wood Scholarship Fund provides access to outdoor adventure camps for kids from underprivileged families through Passages Adventure Camp, where Christian Wood worked as a counselor. Raised funds will also be used to directly support the educational programming of the JRPS Education Department.

Can’t make the race? That is okay! You can still make a donation through the race website. This is our largest fundraiser each year and your donations will directly impact the Park. Sign up and/or donate today at https://runsignup.com/wrr23

See you in the Park!

Josh Stutz
Executive Director