In 1986, as Coach Ron Helmer was transitioning from Woodbridge High School to Georgetown University, he and a few other coaching friends decided to put together a summer camp for their runners to get ready for the looming cross country season. About 70 runners were in attendance that first year at Massanetta Springs, just south of Harrisonburg, VA.

Camp quickly grew to 90 athletes in the second year and 120 athletes in the third. By 1989, camp had outgrown Massanetta Springs and shifted just down the road to its current setting at Eastern Mennonite University.

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Through the years, camp has kicked off the cross country season for numerous State Champion individuals and teams as well as Footlocker/Nike finalists, and NCAA All-Americans. Additionally, the Sprint Camp portion of Blue Ridge Running Camp provides exceptional opportunities for athletes to learn and grow as well. 

In its present form, Blue Ridge Running Camp plays host to over 500 athletes, college counselors, and coaches each July.