That’s because advance registrants save $5, are assured of a race T-shirt and can spend their pre-race time stretching and relaxing, rather than standing in line. The event is a community outreach project of the St. Margaret’s School Alumnae Association, which has used previous years’ proceeds to support campus renovation and beautification efforts.

To register, visit the River Run/Walk online at www.sms.org/as54rrcf.htm to print out a participant form. Complete the form, make out a $15 check to St. Margaret’s School, and send both to: St. Margaret’s School, Attention: Carol Smith, P.O. Box 158, Tappahannock, VA 22560.

Registration also will be held on race day from 6:45 to 7:45 a.m. in front of St. Margaret’s Hall on Water Lane, at a cost of $20. The race begins at 8 a.m. sharp.

In 2004, Douglas Marshall of Newport News led the field over the 3-mile course in 15:54, followed by Jordan Reisman of Columbia, MD, (17:38) and Greg Ruckert of Stevensville, third overall and first in the men’s 50-59 bracket (18:29).

Amy Jones of Heathsville topped the women’s division in 19:55 and placed fifth overall, followed by Denise Schinder of Reedville, second in the women’s division (20:43) and seventh overall. Angela Foster of Ashland placed third among women in 23:06. Prizes are awarded each year in a variety of age categories, in addition to special recognition for first Essex County resident over the finish line.

A number of area merchants and organizations already have signed on to sponsor the run/walk, which will put their names in front of hundreds of participants and spectators, said SMS Alumnae Director Carol Smith.

Sponsors to date include: Bank of Essex, Bank of Lancaster, The Bay Window, Esquire Services, Inc., The Essex Inn, Panoply Computers, Peoples’ Community Bank, Dr. William Ryan Optometrist, Southside Bank, T-Town Tack, Tappahannock Wal-Mart, Woodland Academy and WRAR Radio.

For more information about the race or about sponsorship opportunities, contact Carol Smith at (804) 443-3357.