There is a certain kind of race that means more than the finish line. The Three Sisters Marathon in Danville, Virginia, is one of those races. Named for the three mountain peaks that define the landscape around the course, this Boston Marathon qualifying event has become one of the most meaningful races in our region -- not just for the runners who train for it, but for the community it serves.

For Moss Mountain Outfitters, the Three Sisters Marathon is personal. It is organized in the spirit of the Head Up Eyes Forward mission, the nonprofit founded by Landon and Susan Moss that donates 100% of its net profits back to the community. Every mile of this race carries the same message that started with four words on a canvas: head up, eyes forward.

What Is the Three Sisters Marathon?

The Three Sisters Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifying race held in Danville, VA. The name comes from the three "sisters" -- three prominent mountain peaks in the area that frame the course and give the race its identity. For runners chasing a Boston qualifying time, the Three Sisters offers a certified course right here in Southside Virginia, eliminating the need to travel to larger metro areas for a BQ opportunity.

But this race is about more than qualifying times. It is about community. It is about showing up for one another. And it is about honoring the spirit of a young man named Ryan Moss, whose four simple words have inspired thousands of people to keep moving forward, no matter what stands in their way.

The Connection to Head Up Eyes Forward

The Three Sisters Marathon is organized in the spirit of the HUEF mission. For those unfamiliar with the story, Head Up Eyes Forward began after Ryan Moss passed away in June 2016 at Black Canyon of the Gunnison during a solo camping trip. He was 24 years old and loved the mountains more than anything.

Before his passing, Ryan had painted a canvas for his brother Landon's 26th birthday in 2015 -- a faceless figure against a vast landscape with the words "Head Up. Eyes Forward." on the side. Those words became the foundation for everything that followed: Landon's transformation, the founding of HUEF in 2020, the opening of the physical store in 2021, and eventually the creation of Moss Mountain Outfitters in July 2022.

"For myself, this message quite literally saved my life. When I found this painting...I dropped 175 pounds and just got rejuvenated." -- Landon Moss

That same spirit of perseverance and forward motion drives the Three Sisters Marathon. Every runner on the course is living those four words, pushing through the miles, climbing the hills, and crossing the finish line with their head up and eyes forward.

Why It Matters to Danville

Danville's River District has experienced a remarkable revival in recent years, and events like the Three Sisters Marathon are a significant part of that story. The race brings runners and their families into the community, supports local businesses, and puts Danville on the map as a destination for serious distance runners.

More importantly, the race reinforces what makes this community special: people looking out for one another. Through the HUEF mission, over $30,000 has been donated to local charities including God's Storehouse and House of Hope. The Three Sisters Marathon is one more way that the Moss family and the broader Danville community turn shared purpose into real impact.

Gear Up for Race Day

Whether you are running the marathon or cheering from the sideline, Moss Mountain Outfitters is your go-to for race day preparation. Here is what we recommend for marathon runners:

  • Running shoes -- Proper footwear is everything for 26.2 miles. Stop by the store for a fitting and we will match you to the right shoe for your gait and the course terrain. Browse our footwear selection.
  • Hydration gear -- Staying hydrated through all three sisters is non-negotiable. We carry hydration vests, handhelds, and collapsible bottles built for distance running.
  • Moisture-wicking layers -- Virginia weather can shift quickly. Plan for warmth at the start line and heat by mile 18 with lightweight, breathable layers.
  • Recovery essentials -- Do not forget what happens after the finish line. Compression socks, foam rollers, and recovery nutrition are all in stock.

Need help building the perfect race day kit? Our Kit Builder tool lets you assemble everything you need in one place, or stop by the store and our team will walk you through it in person.

How to Get Involved

Whether you want to run, volunteer, or simply show your support, the Three Sisters Marathon welcomes everyone. For the latest information on registration, course details, and volunteer opportunities, contact us directly. We are happy to answer questions and help you prepare for race day.

Ready to Run the Three Sisters?

Contact us for registration details and race day preparation.

Call (434) 835-2641

You can also visit us at 326 Main Street in Danville's River District to talk with our team about training gear, course strategy, and everything you need to cross that finish line strong. Check out our local trail guides for training routes in the area.

The Three Sisters Marathon is more than a race. It is a community coming together, honoring a legacy, and proving that the best way forward is one step at a time. Head up. Eyes forward. See you at the start line.