The Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2-miler
- Date
- July 4, 2026
- Distance
- The Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2 Miler
From the Organizer
Ripley, WV is the home of America’s 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 race’s 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.
Distances & Pricing
Race Location
About This Sport
From Endurance Grid's Founder
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
Running
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Coming Up
More running races in WV
WVU Medicine Summer Hiking Series
2026 CAMC Foundation Run for Your Life 5 Mile Run/ 2.5 Mile Walk
5 Mile
John Cox Memorial 5k Run
5K
Moonlight on the Falls - Marathon, Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon, and Distance Challenge
Half Marathon
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is The Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2-miler?
- The Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2-miler is a running event held in Ripley, WV. Learn more about the different endurance sports here.
- When and where is The Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2-miler?
- Saturday, July 4, 2026 in Ripley, WV at Calvary United Methodist Church, Ripley, WV. Check the official event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
- How do I register for The Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2-miler?
- Registration is handled through their official registration page. Confirm pricing, distances available, and sign up there.
The Gene Groves Memorial Firecracker 2-miler
Jul 4, 2026