University of Richmond Spider Dash
Runners get ready for the start of the race on the Forum.

University of Richmond’s Spider Dash 5K celebrates community, connection, and friendly competition

CAMPUS LIFE

In its fourth year, the race drew more than 450 registrants, including alumni and students.
February 24, 2026
By Cheryl Spain, editor, internal communications, University Communications

Campus beauty took center stage last Saturday for the University of Richmond’s annual Spider Dash 5K. The University community gathered for the morning race, taking part as runners, walkers, and enthusiastic supporters along the route.

Now in its fourth year, the annual race drew more than 450 registrants — returning participants as well as first-time runners. Traveling from as far as Philadelphia and New York, roughly 40 alumni registered for the 5K, using the time on campus to reconnect with classmates and revisit spaces that once shaped their daily routines.

And they're off! Runners start their winding trek around campus.

Yosmary Rodriguez, a 2016 alum, made the trek back to campus from Charlotte, N.C., with her family, including her infant son. “We came for the first time last year while I was pregnant,” she said. “We wanted to do it now that he’s here — making it a family tradition. We want him walking it next.”

For student participants, the race offered a welcome break from their usual routines. Many ran alongside friends, professors, and family members.

“I’m excited to get out and get some exercise and be part of the community here,” said first-year student Sarah Zurell. “It’s really fun that we have a 5K on campus.”

Spider spirit was in full force on the day of the race.

Participants gathered in the Heilman Dining Center after the race for a celebratory breakfast and awards ceremony. University of Richmond mascot WebstUR presented medals and certificates to the top finishers, as well as the participant who best embodied the Spider Spirit. They included:

  • First place: Hunter Moss, staff
  • Second Place: Noah Monestere, sibling of first-year student Caitlyn Monestere
  • Third Place: Thomas Watt, sophomore
  • Most Spider Spirit: Audrey Hosford, first-year student

Organizers emphasized that the event is as much about connection as it is about competition, bringing together generations of the University community for a morning of camaraderie and fun.

“For the past four years, this event has brought our campus community together to celebrate each other,” said Heather Sadowski, director of health promotion and Spider Dash co-chair. “From months of preparation to race-day festivities, participants and supporters alike create an energy that’s truly special. The smiles are contagious and the campus is buzzing with excitement each Spider Dash morning.”