First Bank has announced that registration is now open for the 40th Annual First Bank Fall Run on October 17. The race, featuring 5K and 10K events, winds through the historic Town of Fincastle. As the race celebrates its milestone 40th anniversary, runners, walkers, families, and community supporters are invited to be part of the tradition.
For 40 years, the Fall Run has welcomed thousands of participants from across the Roanoke Valley and beyond, becoming one of the region’s most anticipated annual community events. “This year is about so much more than reaching the finish line,” said Todd Ross, Roanoke Valley Market president. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate 40 years of neighbors coming together, volunteers giving their time, local businesses lending their support, and families creating memories that have lasted for generations. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make the Fall Run what it is today.”
The First Bank Fall Run begins at 9 a.m. at Central Academy Middle School and journeys through the Town of Fincastle. Custom medals and trophies are presented to the top finishers in both the adult and youth age groups. “We always look forward to the excitement among all the runners, but especially the elementary school teams who compete for trophies for their schools,” said Ross.
“Our community has embraced this race year after year, and that support is something we never take for granted,” Ross commented. The success of the Fall Run depends on the dedication of countless volunteers and community members who work together each year to make the event possible.
“I want to offer a heartfelt thank you to Botetourt County Public Schools, the Town of Fincastle, our volunteers and the race participants. We also want to thank Botetourt County and our first responders who help make this event a success,” Ross added. “Your commitment has built something truly special over the past 40 years, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate this milestone together.”
Participants of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to register. Online registration is available through RunSignUp.com. Everyone who registers by October 9 will receive a custom long-sleeve shirt commemorating the 40th anniversary. The cost to enter is $15 for students age 17 and under and $35 for adults 18 and older who register prior to October 9. After October 9, adult registrations are $45.
First Bank awards scholarships to area graduating high school seniors who have participated in a previous Fall Run. The 2026 recipients were Georgia Miller of James River and Abby Perkey from Lord Botetourt.
For additional information, email First Bank at [email protected] or visit https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/Fincastle/FirstBankFallRun.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
