Taylor (Furman University), Heinen (University of Michigan) Win 2026 Collegiate 10K Road Race Titles
27th Annual Event Welcomed Nearly 27,000 Participants and 1,900 College Students in Richmond
April 18, 2026 - RICHMOND, VA –The 27th annual Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10K delivered a day of high-level competition and community celebration as nearly 27,000 participants—including approximately 1,900 collegiate runners—took to the streets of Richmond on Saturday. Despite unseasonably high temperatures that prompted a “Red Alert” safety response, the event maintained its longstanding reputation as “Richmond’s Biggest Block Party.”
Serving as host of the 2026 Collegiate 10K Road Race National Championships, this year’s race featured some of the top collegiate distance runners in the country competing alongside elite and recreational participants.
Due to elevated temperatures, race officials implemented a “Red Alert” protocol to ensure participant safety. Runners who had not reached the intersection of Malvern Avenue and Monument Avenue by 10:35 a.m. were directed to turn around early. These precautions allowed the event to proceed safely under challenging weather conditions.
Luke Taylor (Furman University) claimed the men’s collegiate national title, crossing the line in 30:29.05 after a competitive race that saw him contend with top open runners throughout the course. Taylor ran alongside eventual open champion Peter Borger, who recently ran 2:15:24 in the marathon to qualify for the U.S. Olympic Trials and former champion Jordan Bendura through five miles before securing the collegiate crown with a third-place overall finish.
Henry Haase (University of Richmond) earned runner-up honors among collegians in 31:42.37, while teammate Zach Stevens placed third in 32:25.74.
In the women’s collegiate race, Mary Heinen (University of Michigan) captured the national title in 34:28.62. Heinen separated from a lead group that included Anna Rigby (Virginia Tech) and Mollie Fenn (University of Richmond), who finished second (35:43.05) and third (36:33.48), respectively.
The top 3 college male and female college finishers were awarded a total prize purse of $3,000.
Peter Borger of Malvern, Pennsylvania, secured the men’s open title following a strong performance in the heat. Carter Norbo of Charlottesville, Virginia, claimed the women’s open championship.
Participants traveled from 45 states, Washington, D.C., and six countries to take part in the race. Nearly 7 percent of the field came from outside Virginia, marking an increase in out-of-state participation compared to 2025, while approximately 83 percent of runners were from the Richmond region.
At a time when national running participation is up approximately 5 percent, the 10k and Sports Backers events are outperforming the trend with growth of 9 percent, reinforcing Richmond’s position as a premier running destination.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, the event atmosphere remained vibrant. From costumed participants to live entertainment along the course, the race upheld its identity as a uniquely Richmond celebration that blends athletic competition with community engagement. The Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k is renowned for its electric atmosphere and unmatched community spirit. Each year, Sports Backers spotlight on-course entertainment as a key part of the race day experience. This year, more than 45 groups—including local bands, cheer squads, and lively porch parties—joined in the fun as part of the 10k Spirit Contest presented by The Richmond Experience. Cash prizes were awarded in categories such as Best Porch Party, Judges’ Choice, Most Spirited, and Best Theme. Beyond the official contest, thousands of enthusiastic spectators lined the course, turning the entire route into a celebration of movement, music, and motivation.
Race organizers commended runners, volunteers, and public safety personnel for their cooperation and resilience. The successful execution of the event under demanding conditions highlights the strength of the Richmond running community and the enduring appeal of the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10K.
Next up, the Collegiate Running Association will host its Trail Running National Championship on May 3rd within EX2 Adventures Fountainhead 10K Trail Run. For more information on race results and future events, visit the official Collegiate Running Association website.
Full results will be available at www.sportsbackers.org. The 2026 Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger race will take place on Saturday, April 17, 2027. Registration for the 2027 event opens on Monday at https://www.sportsbackers.org/event/ukrops-monument-avenue-10k/. To celebrate an awe-inspiring 27th event there will be a weeklong sale. Registration will then remain open.
Related Articles:
2026 Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10k presented by Kroger Video Recap
Collegiate Running Association 10k Road Race National Championship
Place Collegiate Men Time
1 Luke Taylor 30:29
2 Henry Haase 31:42
3 Zachary Stevens 32:26
4 Patrick Doherty 32:34
5 Matthew Peart 33:37
6 Jack Levine 33:48
7 David Dawson 35:47
8 Gavin Myers 36:06
9 Alex Sappey 36:17
10 Peter Lee 36:43
Place Collegiate Women Time
1 Mary Heinen 34:30
2 Anna Rigby 35:43
3 Mollie Fenn 36:35
4 Celia Dawson 38:19
5 Lyndsey Lee 39:49
6 Priscilla Keller 41:04
7 Kathryn Grill 43:18
8 Dylan Crawford 44:55
9 Emma Kunschner 45:53
10 Marissa Bookoff 46:59