About The 2013 Race

The 20th Annual Kensington 8K Race, 2 Mile Challenge and 1K Fun Run has something for everyone. The 8K’s challenging route is famous for its fast start in Old Town Kensington, commencing in historic Warner Circle, past Town Hall, and along Antique Row. After a long straight-away down Kensington Parkway, runners enter Rock Creek Park for a beautiful run on Beach Drive. But not too fast, as you must save some energy for the infamous E. Bexhill hill, followed by a relieving downhill sprint before finishing back in Old Town to the cheers of hundreds of spectators.

While the Kensington 8K has grown in size and stature over the past two decades, the event continues to highlight Kensington's unique small-town feel and family-friendly community. The 2 mile challenge and 1K fun run are perfect for families and younger runners to enjoy, working their way up to the longer 8K course in future years.

Race proceeds go to support three local public schools serving the Kensington-Bethesda communities: Kensington Parkwood Elementary, North Bethesda Middle, and Walter Johnson High Schools. Funds raised through sponsors and race entry fees support both academic and extracurricular activities at the schools. Event organizers, sponsors, and volunteers are a blend of parents and supporters with ties to these wonderful schools and communities. We encourage all students, parents, teachers, staff, and alumni from these schools to come out on race day, join the fun, and embrace the community spirit that is the Kensington 8K.

Read about the 2012 event by clicking here.