Health & Fitness

Nearly 1,200 Expected at DryHome's Loudoun Lyme 10K/5K/1K on Sunday

The fifth annual race will educate the public about the tick-borne disease.

DryHome’s 5th Annual Loudoun Lyme 10K/5K is the nation’s largest Lyme race event and helps drive awareness and raise money to find a cure for Lyme disease, the number one tick-borne illness in the U.S. It affects Loudoun County more than any other county in Virginia.

The race begins at 8 a.m. Sunday, May 17, and a free fair runs until 11 a.m. at the Brambleton Town Center, 22855 Brambleton Plaza, Ashburn.

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The race will bring together 1,200 runners and walkers of all ages from 12 states; Congresswoman Barbara Comstock; Loudoun Board Supervisor Janet Clarke; Health Department officials; Lyme Disease experts; medical and veterinary doctors; and specialists.

The Loudoun Lyme race also features a 1K family walk/fun run and informational fair with booths from local businesses, the medical community, vendors and children’s activities to educate the public about the disease, its causes and treatments. Proceeds benefit the National Capital Lyme Disease Association, a nonprofit offering education and support.

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Steve Gotschi, the owner of Sterling-based DryHome Roofing and Siding, started the event after watching his wife and many friends battle the disease. In its fifth year, the Loudoun Lyme race has raised more than $140,000 to support research and advocacy efforts.

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