Events
Description
The WDF is more than just a test of endurance; it’s a powerful step toward empowering women and supporting those in need. With every stride, every mile, and every finish line crossed, we are contributing to the vital work of the Center for Safety & Change and their mission to support, shelter and provide services to victims and survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking and other crimes.
This year’s theme CHASE THE CHANGE embodies the spirit of this event. It reminds us that change starts with each of us—through our actions, our unity, and our commitment to making the world a safer and more equitable place. Together, we’re not just chasing the finish line; we’re chasing a future where everyone can thrive.
The Women's Distance Festival was created by the Road Runners Club of America as a protest to a lack of competitive races for women both in the Olympics and nationally. It was believed as recently as the 1980 Olympics, that women could not compete at distances of greater than 1500 meters, which is less than 1 mile! In America, in July of 1980, the first Women's Distance Festivals were run opposite the Mens' Marathon at the Moscow Olympics. The Rockland Road Runners picked up the Women's Distance Festival in 1988, and it has now grown to be the largest Women and Girls 5K in the tristate area!
Join us to experience the ENERGY, POWER, and DETERMINATION of this incredible event as we come together for the 38th Annual Women's Distance Festival 5K Run/Walk on July 13th at 8:00am. There will also be a virtual event for those who cannot participate in person. The virtual event will run from Sunday, July 13 through Sunday, July 20. Join us as we come together to raise money to help the Center for Safety & Change in their mission to support, shelter and provide services to victims and survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking and other crimes.
Lace up your sneakers, feel the energy, and let’s CHASE THE CHANGE!
Race Day Schedule
6:30am Check-In
7:20am National Anthem & Announcement
7:30am Kids Run
7:40am Warm-Up
7:50am Walk out to the starting shoot
8:00am Race Start
Awards Ceremony to follow
Awards
- Taking down Donna Combs course record of 16:03 $250
- 1st Place Overall- bracelet
- Top 3 Runners Overall in Female and Non-Binary Categories
- Master Top 3 (Over 40)
- Top 3 Runners in 5 year increments, starting at ages 14-19
- Top Team of 5+ (Based on the 3 fastest runners on each team)
- Top Mother-Daughter
- Top Sister-Sister
- Top Grandmother-Granddaughter
- Top Partner-Partner
- Top Family
- Team Spirit Award (Based on team size + social media engagement)
Race Shirt
Packet Pickup
Packet pickup will take place at the Palisades Center on the first floor in the Macy's Courtyard. This is located in front of the old Lord & Taylor. We suggest parking in lot C17. From 303, this is the corner of the mall where Macy's and Lord & Taylor meet.
Pick-up times are:
Friday, July 11 3-7pm
Saturday, July 12 9am-12pm
Packet pick-up will also be available on race day at Rockland Lake:
Sunday, July 13 6:30-7:30am
The WDF is proud to partner with Suffern Rotary's Period Product Initiative to provide period products to women in need in our community. Did you know: a) Period Products are not covered by SANP or any other assistance program, b) All females who menstruate require period products to fully participate in daily life. With your help, we can make these products available to females served at the Community Food Pantry in Suffern, NY. Shop this wishlist to have items mailed directly to the Food Pantry or bring period products to packet pick up or on race day.
Center for Safety & Change
The Center for Safety & Change's mission is to provide necessary services, support and shelter to victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and other crimes. Click the link directly above to find out more about the Center.
Donate to Help the Center for Safety & Change
Donate to support the Center for Safety & Change's vision of world in which all people are free from oppression and violence and experience respect, dignity, equity, and safety in every aspect of their lives.
Become a Sponsor
Become a sponsor of the 2025 WDF! View all sponsorship opportunities HERE. We are so grateful for your support!
Place
Congers, NY US 10920
Kids Fun Run
All children ages 3-11 are welcome to participate in our Kids Fun Run! All kids will receive a participation medal. Please be sure to register your child(ren).
Virtual Race Option
For those unable to attend the in-person event, a virtual race option is available. Run anytime, anywhere between July 13 and July 20 to support this incredible cause.
Race Contact Info
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Directions
Like this page and invite your friends on Facebook.
Race Participant Survey
Please complete the following survey to help us better understand your race experience.
