[3] The event would be held again in 1984 before being shortened to a half marathon in 1985 due to severe flooding resulting from Hurricane Juan.
Announced on August 12, 2009, by Roanoke representative Bob Goodlatte,[1] securing a portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway to hold the event involved a bi-partisan effort from congresspersons whose districts the Parkway traverses.
In addition to Goodlatte, representatives Rick Boucher Tom Perriello, Virginia Foxx, Patrick McHenry and Heath Shuler all gave their support to for holding the event.
[4] The inaugural, 2010 event was scheduled to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway and be included as part of the year-long celebration.
The race is put on by the Roanoke Outside Foundation, a nonprofit with a mission of connecting people outdoors.
In early March, the Center for Disease Control suggested the cancelation of all gatherings of 50 or more people.
[8] The full and half marathon courses were altered and USATF certified in 2014.