4m Run, 10m Ride or Run/Ride Duathlon
2023 April 29th starting at 8am
$30 for Run, $30 for Ride, $50 for Duathlon

Gwynn’s Island in Mathews County is the host site of this annual race. Join runners & riders in this unique tour of one of Virginia’s special locations – then hang around to enjoy the music & food.
Consider Sponsoring the Gwynn’s Island Race. The race organizer is an IRS 501c3 recognized charitable organization (Tax ID 86-1267552) so your donation is tax deductible.
“Just want to say thank you for putting on a great local event. You provided options for both disciplines. The course was perfect for this. We stayed at the campground and what an awesome view. It’s nice to go to a race and really feel the locals are glad you came.”
Glenn & Monique Y, 2022 Gwynn’s Island Race
Race Details
4 mile road run
Starting and ending at the Gwynn’s Island Civic League, the route follows quiet backroads around the island, with a constant view of the water. The race course is 4 miles and the cost is $30. For those looking for a shorter distance, we will have a Free Fun Run open for everyone (distance just > 1 mile).
10 mile bicycle ride
Weaving around the backroads of Gwynn’s Island, you’ll catch glimpses of the Chesapeake Bay, Milford Sound, and the popular campground & RV resort on the island as you complete the course. The route is 10 miles and the cost is $30.
Combine the run & ride
Feeling adventurous? Sign up for the combined Run & Ride and make it a duathlon. The 4 mile run and 10 mile ride routes are the same as the individual events described above – you’ll stage your bicycle so that as you complete the run leg, you can immediately head out onto the bike course. The cost is $50.
Race day start times
Please see the important COVID-19 information below. The run & ride will go “on” unless there is a major weather event – the start times and post-event activities are subject to change depending on current Virginia guidelines for group social activities. Unless stated otherwise, the Duathlon (Run/Ride Combo) and the 4 Mile Run at 8:00am, the 10 Mile Ride at 8:05am and the 1.31 Mile “Micro Half” at 8:10am.
Awards
All event participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt and finisher medal. Top finishers in the run, ride and combo will be recognized along with age group categories for each event. Back by popular demand: the Solar Power Hula Dancers!
COVID-19 EVENT GUIDELINES
The health & safety of event participants, spectators, volunteers and community residents are top of mind as we plan & prepare for our events. Check back to this section for the latest adjustments to this event in response to Virginia state guidelines. Important to note: the Gwynn’s Island Run/Ride will proceed on the date scheduled barring any weather-related disruptions. The start times and post-event activities may be subject to change as noted here. Direct email communication will be sent out to registered participants as well.
VA state guidelines on hosting race events now allow for a maximum of 1000 participants. The post-race activity location on the grounds of the Gwynn’s Island Civic League allow for plenty of room for social distancing.
Other EVENT Facts
Mathews County Visitors

Learn more about the area by visiting the Mathews Visitor Information website at visitmathews.com. which also includes a full calendar of events and recommended places to eat & stay during your visit. The Gwynn’s Island Museum is just one of the county’s historic sites and sits right next to the festival grounds.
Proceeds Stay Local

The Mathews Outdoor Club (MOC) often partners with local clubs & community groups to organize these events. Check our Community Support page to read more – your support of the MOC events benefits the local area. Thank you for helping us “pay it forward.”