The 38th Annual Women's Distance Festival 5K

🏃‍♀️ Event Overview

• Date: July 13, 2025
• Time: 8:00 AM
• Location: Rockland Lake State Park, Congers, NY
• Registration: Register Here

🌟 Purpose and Impact

• Empowerment: The WDF is more than just a test of endurance: it’s a powerful step toward empowering women and supporting those in need.
• Vital Work: We contribute to the vital work of the Center for Safety & Change and their mission to support, shelter, and provide services to victims and survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, and other crimes.
• Community: Together, we’re not just chasing the finish line: we’re chasing a future where everyone can thrive.
• Theme: This year’s theme "CHASE THE CHANGE" embodies the spirit of this event.

📜 History of the Festival

• Inception: The Women's Distance Festival was created by the Road Runners Club of America as a protest against a lack of competitive races for women.
• Significant Changes: Until the 1980 Olympics, it was believed that women could not compete at distances greater than 1500 meters.
• First Event: The first Women’s Distance Festivals were run in July of 1980, opposite the Men's Marathon at the Moscow Olympics.
• Growth: Since 1988, the Rockland Road Runners have continued this tradition, making it the largest Women and Girls 5K in the tristate area.

🎉 Join the Celebration

• Energy and Determination: Experience the energy, power, and determination of this incredible event.
• In-Person and Virtual: Participate in the 38th Annual Women’s Distance Festival 5K Run/Walk or join the virtual event from July 13 through July 20.
• Support a Cause: Help raise money for the Center for Safety & Change.
• Get Involved: Lace up your sneakers, feel the energy, and let’s CHASE THE CHANGE!