(Usually) on the first Sunday of May, runners, joggers, walkers – ATHLETES – in Philadelphia line up to race down Broad Street. I say "usually" as we've recently seen a few years when the annual 14th Street Run was moved to the last weekend in April.....which is Penn Relays weekend!
Starting in the Logan neighborhood (North Philly), last year's race made the traditional Southward trek down Broad Street and returned to The Navy Yard as the finish line! Runners go through the heart of the city passing diverse communities, neighborhoods, and my high school (THEE Roman Catholic High School) while excited fans and volunteers cheer them on. Look for me and the Original Propaganda Athletic Club (O.P.A.C.) Crew (those of us who aren't running) at "Cheer House Row", on the southwest corner of Broad & Washington (runner's right).
As we collectively hold our breath for the 2025 registration and race dates, if you're thinking of running the Pennsylvania Route 611 Run this year, here are 10 things you should know about Philly’s favorite 10–mile race.....the largest 10–mile road race in the United States:
*if anything changes, we'll update the list and let you know*
1. Save two dates! The official date has yet to be announced, but if past history has told us anything, it will probably be Sunday, May 4th. As aforementioned, we've seen the Broad Street Run (BSR) held on the last Sunday in April. I'd keep Sunday, April 27th blocked off as well, just in case.
2. The 2024 Broad Street Run lottery officially opened on Thursday, February 1st at 12:01AM EST and was live through Thursday, February 15th at 11:59PM EST. Runners were notified the week of February 19, 2024 on their lottery status. This year's lottery date hasn't been announced yet, but when it does ENTER THE LOTTERY BEFORE IT CLOSES. BSR will more than likely sell out. Quickly.
3. Equal Rights: Everyone should have an equal chance to be one of the 40,000+ runners in the 10–mile race whether you register on day 1 or day 14. There are a few exceptions to this rule, keep reading to see how you can skip the lottery and still run the race.
4. Pay To Play: Have your credit card information ready when you're entering the lottery. Runners will be charged the entry fee after the lottery selections are made.
5. Tenured runners (those who have competed in the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run 10 or more times) are eligible for guaranteed registration.
6. Teams are for competitive runners from corporations or running clubs affiliated with USATF or RRCA. Each team may have up to five members. Teams are accepted on a first–come, first–serve basis. Um, hello O.P.A.C.!
7. Skip the lottery! Secure your spot in Broad Street by fundraising for one of the race’s official charity partners: American Cancer Society, American Association for Cancer Research, Back on My Feet, Fairmount Park Conservancy, and Students Run Philly Style.
8. Now (like TODAY) would be a great time to stop into any of our Philadelphia Runner locations (see below) and get fitted for a new pair of shoes. Because let's be real, you're gonna wear new shoes for Broad Street. I'll drop a list later this week or next with some of the new and upcoming training shoes, tempo shoes, and racing shoes.
9. Don’t forget your Philadelphia Runner Apparel! It's some of the swaggiest gear in the city, and a lot of the pieces can be worn for both running and chilling. If any of your out–of–town co–workers, friends, and family are descending upon Philly for Broad Street – THESE are the keepsakes that they'll want to take with them!
10. Time to Train! Team Philly Race Training was created to support the Philadelphia area’s beginner to intermediate runners in their aspirations of improving their running and living healthier lives. Whether you are racing for the first time or looking to set a new PR, Team Philly has the plan for you. Kick off training on Saturday, February 22nd!
We've got you covered for EVERYTHING Broad Street Run this year, including answers to frequently asked questions, raceday tips, and product suggestions. Continue your online visit with us, or stop by one of our store locations:
PR Center City: 1711 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
PR Manayunk: 4358 Main Street, Philadelphia, PA
PR Glen Mills: 505 Glen Eagle Square, Glen Mills, PA