Chamber Notes Record Outdoor Event Series Participation In 2026 745 athletes participate across three signature events, bringing visitors from across the country to the Alleghany Highlands   Alleghany Highlands, VA (Sept. 29, 2026) - The Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is celebrating another milestone year for its Outdoor Event Series, with record participation, continued growth, and hundreds of athletes traveling to the region to experience the Alleghany Highlands’ mountains, trails, rivers, and lakes. The 2026 series included three signature outdoor events: The Agony in the Alleghanies Gran Fondo, The Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5K, and The Lake Moomaw One Mile Open Water Swim. Together, the three events welcomed 745 participants, up from 693 in 2025. Both the Jackson River Scenic Trail races and Lake Moomaw One Mile Swim once again set participation records, continuing three consecutive years of record-breaking attendance. The Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5K welcomed a record 510 runners, with 98% traveling from outside the region. Participants represented 22 states as well as Ontario, Canada, further demonstrating the event’s growing reach beyond Virginia. The Lake Moomaw One Mile Swim also broke its participation record for the third consecutive year, welcoming 104 swimmers from eight states. Approximately 98% of participants traveled from outside the region to compete in the open-water swim at Lake Moomaw. The Agony in the Alleghanies Gran Fondo welcomed 131 cyclists, its largest field since 2022. Riders represented 22 states, with 94% coming from outside the region. Combined, the events generated an estimated $329,132 in economic impact for the Alleghany Highlands. Economic impact estimates were calculated using IMPLAN modeling through the Roanoke Regional Partnership and reflect visitor activity associated with lodging, dining, transportation, retail, and other spending generated by event participants. “These events continue to show the tremendous value of outdoor recreation to the Alleghany Highlands,” said Josh Taylor, Executive Director of the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism. “When hundreds of athletes travel here to run our trails, ride through our mountains, or swim at Lake Moomaw, they’re also staying in our lodging properties, eating at our restaurants, visiting local businesses, and experiencing what makes this region special. Each event gives us an opportunity to introduce new visitors to the Alleghany Highlands and give them a reason to come back.” Behind the success of the series is a strong network of community support. A total of 143 volunteers helped make the three events possible. The 2026 Outdoor Event Series was also supported by 13 sponsors: Jackson River Community Credit Union, Oluv Oil, ALCOVA Mortgage, Hemp Insurance Agency, Smurfit Westrock, Highlands Community Bank, J&K Electric, Ingevity, Alleghany County, Bath Community Physicians Group, Roanoke Outside, LewisGale Hospital Alleghany, and Williams Fabrication. “Our sponsors and volunteers truly are the heart of these events. We simply could not do this without the people and organizations who give their time, resources, and support year after year,” said Makayla Nobles, Events Coordinator for the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism. “If you ask our participants what they remember most about their experience, time and again they talk about the support they felt from our community. Whether it’s a volunteer cheering them on along the course or a local resident who just happens to be there and stops to encourage them, that support leaves a lasting impression. What makes these events so special is the experience our community creates for every athlete who comes here.” The Chamber also extends its appreciation to the local governments, public safety agencies, community organizations, businesses, volunteers, and other partners whose support helps make each event possible. Beyond the numbers, the continued growth of the Outdoor Event Series highlights the Alleghany Highlands’ position as a destination for outdoor recreation and adventure. With participants traveling from across Virginia, throughout the United States, and even internationally, the events provide an opportunity to showcase the region’s natural assets while generating meaningful visitor spending throughout the community. The Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism looks forward to building on the momentum of the 2026 series and welcoming athletes back to our community for another year of outdoor adventure next year.

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