Valley Forge Revolutionary Run Sets Participation, Proceeds Records

VALLEY FORGE, Pa. - A record was set at this year's Valley Forge Revolutionary Five-mile Run - but not by a runner. Thanks to a 20 percent increase in the number of participants and sponsors, the event raised $31,000; the most in its three-year history.

Sponsored and produced by the Valley Forge Convention and Visitors Bureau, the annual run benefits the preservation of trails at Valley Forge National Historical Park. This year's proceeds will enhance the six and a half mile Joseph Plumb Martin Trail, the Park's most popular.

"It's extremely gratifying to have better-than-doubled the contribution the race has made toward maintaining the Park's trails in only three years of operation. I'm especially proud we can tell our runners and walkers 100 percent of their registration fees went solely toward the event's purpose instead of covering administrative or operating expenses," said Valley Forge Convention and Visitors Bureau President Paul R. Decker. "Our generous corporate sponsors made that possible," he added.

"The run was terrific and keeps getting better," said Mike Caldwell, Park Superintendent. "We can't thank the Valley Forge Convention and Visitors Bureau enough for its vision, leadership and organization. And, we appreciate the tremendous support from all the sponsors, volunteers and the running community that first suggested the proceeds of the run benefit the trails."

The event kicked off National Park Week and also included a three-mile walk and one-mile Youth Fun Run. For more information about the Valley Forge Revolutionary Five-mile Run visit www.valleyforge.org.

About VFCVB: The Valley Forge Convention and Visitors Bureau, Ltd. is a nonprofit, membership-based sales and marketing organization that aggressively promotes the Valley Forge area and Montgomery County as a convention site and leisure visitor destination by encouraging patronage of its 500-plus member hotels, restaurants, attractions and services. The Bureau's web site at www.valleyforge.org serves visitors, residents, meeting planners and tour operators.

About Valley Forge National Historical Park: Valley Forge National Historical Park is a national icon of the American Revolution that serves as a place where visitors enjoy, understand, care for, and preserve America's history and natural heritage. The Park offers an engaging, complete educational and recreational experience, providing an important piece of the American story in a beautiful, historical, preserved landscape.

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