This is the third Bunion Derby Race.

This unusual 4-miler features 20 different starting times based on "age handicaps," with older runners starting first and younger runners starting last.  Runners start with their age/gender cohort in five-year groups, e.g., men 60-64 will start the race a few minutes ahead of women 35-39, who will start a few minutes ahead of men 40-44, etc.

The course is flat and fast along the C&O Canal towpath at Carderock, Md.

Another unusual feature of this race is the gift exchange.  Each runner brings an item looking for a new, loving home, and the finishers choose their prizes in order of finish.  The Race Director will also contribute prizes (including, in past years, Cherry, Apple, and Blueberry pies, in recognition of the Fourth of July).

Directions to Carderock:  From the Beltway, take Exit 41 (last exit in Md. if you're coming from Md., or first exit in Md. if you're coming from Va.), go west on Clara Barton Parkway, and exit at Carderock exit.  At stop sign turn left.  At "T," turn right following sign toward Carderock, and follow the road as it curves down under the canal.  At another "T" intersection, turn right, and look for parking immediately on the left.

Or click here for online directions.

Because of restrictions against transacting business on National Park Service grounds, there will be no race day registration for non-members, so please sign up using the link below. 

register online.