The Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2-miler
- Date Sat 4th July 2026
- Time 11:30AM EDT
- Location Ripley, West Virginia
- Price $32.25
- Races 1 race
Event summary
Join us on Saturday, July 4, 2026, in Ripley, West Virginia, for the Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2-miler, a cherished tradition that has been part of America's Largest Small-Town 4th of July Celebration for nearly three decades! This exciting race kicks off just before the Grand Parade, offering a festive atmosphere filled with community spirit and patriotic pride.
Runners of all ages will have the opportunity to participate in this fast, mostly flat 2-mile course that winds through the heart of Ripley. In honor of the race's founder, Gene Groves, this year's event promises to be a memorable tribute, celebrating his dedication to the running community. Competitors will vie for trophies and a $100 cash prize for overall male and female winners, while medals will be awarded to the top three finishers in each age bracket. Don't miss the chance to be recognized for special categories such as the most patriotic outfit, best dressed participant, and the oldest and youngest runners! Mark your calendars for a day of fun, fitness, and celebration on this special Independence Day!
Runners of all ages will have the opportunity to participate in this fast, mostly flat 2-mile course that winds through the heart of Ripley. In honor of the race's founder, Gene Groves, this year's event promises to be a memorable tribute, celebrating his dedication to the running community. Competitors will vie for trophies and a $100 cash prize for overall male and female winners, while medals will be awarded to the top three finishers in each age bracket. Don't miss the chance to be recognized for special categories such as the most patriotic outfit, best dressed participant, and the oldest and youngest runners! Mark your calendars for a day of fun, fitness, and celebration on this special Independence Day!
Organiser's Description
Ripley, WV is the home of Americas Largest Small-Town 4th of July Celebration. For 28 years, the Main Street Firecracker race has been a part of this celebration kicking off immediately before the Grand Parade.
This year we have rebranded to the Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2-miler, to celebrate the life of the races founder and main supporter. For 25 years, Gene and his family have celebrated the runners in our community, volunteering hours and resources to make this fast, mostly flat 2-mile course along the city streets a centerpiece of our patriotic celebrations.
Overall male and female runners will receive trophies and a $100 cash prize. Top three finishers in each age bracket will receive medals. There will be special recognitions for the oldest and youngest runners, most patriotic, best dressed, and farthest travelled.
This year we have rebranded to the Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2-miler, to celebrate the life of the races founder and main supporter. For 25 years, Gene and his family have celebrated the runners in our community, volunteering hours and resources to make this fast, mostly flat 2-mile course along the city streets a centerpiece of our patriotic celebrations.
Overall male and female runners will receive trophies and a $100 cash prize. Top three finishers in each age bracket will receive medals. There will be special recognitions for the oldest and youngest runners, most patriotic, best dressed, and farthest travelled.
Races
-
The Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2 Miler
Incl. $2.25 Fee & Shirt
Sat 4th July 2026 (11:30AM EDT)
$32.25
OPENS 17 FEB
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Calvary United Methodist Church, 205 N Ct St, Ripley, 25271, WV, United States
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The Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2-miler
