King of the James Adjusting Plans Due to Raging River and Soaked Trails

Message on Facebook about the plans for crowning a new King of the James.

Don’t call it a cancellation.

I’m sure that most of you can see the current weather conditions, and the projection for the river. The James is expected to crest at 18.5 feet. That’s the highest level we have seen in 24 years. If the river actually goes that big, portions of Riverside Drive, Belle Isle, and Pony Pasture Parking lot will be underwater. We are expecting a pretty substantial mess on the trails, access roads and park infrastructure in the coming days.

Our all-volunteer team of organizers has been weighing the options for several days now, and we just don’t feel comfortable putting the event on with so many variables out there. So, it is with a great deal of sadness (and a good bit of frustration) that we are cancelling this weekend’s in-person event.

A New King Will be Crowned.

With the largest registration that we have ever had, and more support than we have ever received, we still want to make the 2020 King of the James a reality. We have decided to shift gears a bit and switch to a virtual race. When the trails dry up after this rain event, you have until mid December to record your time and post it to Runsignup. We will be crowning a King and have some great prizes for our winners. We will send out another email with more information about the virtual race.

Packet Pick Up Is Still On.

We hope that everyone is still excited to race and post a time. Come get your swag and race shirt! We will still be hosting the following packet pick-ups this week:
VCU Outdoor Adventure Program
130 S. Linden St. Richmond VA 23284
Friday (11am-6pm)

Forest Hill Park Shelter
1700 W 42nd St. Richmond, VA 23225
(Saturday 3pm-5pm)
Free Trees provided by RVA H20!

Finally, we just want to say that we really appreciate everyone’s support of King of the James. The money that we raise on registrations and donations goes back to making the James River Park a better place for all of us to enjoy. We are working hard to provide resources and support for our beloved park. Even though this year’s event isn’t going to go on as planned, your contributions and support of the race, help make this community a better place to live and play.

Talk more soon.