When the Sports Backers introduce a new event, Richmond usually responds by turning out in droves. That’s been the case with the Monument Avenue 10K, of course, which has grown into one of the largest road races in the U.S. The Anthem Moonlight Ride seems to set a new  participation records every year. Riverrock is hugely popular in May, and last year’s inaugural event, the Martin’s Tour of Richmond drew close to 1000 participants (with this year’s pre-race entries tracking ahead of last year’s). So, when the SBs roll into Midlothian Mines Park at 10 a.m. Thursday to announce a new winter event, expect Central Virginians to take notice.

The Monument Ave. 10K is one of the largest road races in the country. Credit: Richmond.com

Sports Backers PR maven Jackie Stoneburner didn’t want to divulge too much, but she said the event will be held December 14th at 6 p.m. The press release she sent out last week said that SBs’ executive director Jon Lugbill will be joined at the announcement by Bill Nash, CarMax Executive Vice President of Human Resources and Administrative Services, Daniel A. Gecker, Midlothian District Supervisor, and Katie Bozzo, of the Walton Park Neighborhood Association. The release also said that “visuals” at the announcement would include “Christmas carolers and holiday decorations.”

We’ll see what the Sports Backers have in store (check here on Thursday for the announcement). Chances are, whatever it is, it’ll be well-attended.