Thanks to Lockheed Martin’s sponsorship, runners will have the opportunity to participate in the first-ever USA Track & Field-certified road race to enter the historic property at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. On Sunday, Sept. 11, the George Washington Patriot Run will host thousands of runners for 5K and 10K races beginning at 8 a.m.

Organized by the Alexandria George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee and George Washington's Mount Vernon, the race will take runners along the scenic George Washington Memorial Parkway. They'll finish the race inside the bowling green walls in front of the historic Mount Vernon mansion, less than 200 yards from Washington's front door.

"We're excited to be working with Mount Vernon to host this unique event," said Joe Shumard, chair of the George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee. "This will be a wonderful event for the entire D.C. area — particularly the Alexandria community — to showcase our connection to George Washington."

The $50 race registration includes admission to Mount Vernon, a race t-shirt, and a finisher medal. Those wanting to access the finish line on the grounds of Mount Vernon will be required to purchase a spectator ticket for a special discounted price of $10, which also provides access to the grounds and activities at Mount Vernon.

The awards ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m., and both runners and registered spectators can enjoy food, drinks, and music nearby.

"We're also hoping families will join us and register for the 'Fun Run,' a free race for children 11 years and under," said Shumard. The "Fun Run" – scheduled to start at 10 a.m. right after the awards ceremony ends – will be held near the finish line.

See mountvernon.org/run for more details and to register.