[ad_1]
The first race was held in 1986.
WASHINGTON — Hundreds of runners slipped into their tallest heels and most dazzling costumes Tuesday night for the 38th Annual DC High Heel Race along 17th Street NW.
The long-running Dupont Circle tradition began in 1986 as a wager among drag queens racing in heels between local LGBTQ+ bars. Nearly four decades later, the event has grown into one of the city’s most beloved events.
This year’s winner, racing as Lady Liberty, crossed the finish line with flair, despite a few shoe struggles along the way.
“I lost my heel! Oh my gosh,” Lady Liberty exclaimed.
Even broken heels couldn’t stop the spirit of competition.
“My feet are sore, the journey to breathe. I’m a huddled mess right now,” the winner told WUSA9 just moments after crossing the finish line.
From “a sexy Michael Myers” to last-minute costumes “from Target,” participants showed up in full creative force.
“Stay on the ball of your feet, and if you fall, it’s very embarrassing and you should probably get up quickly,” this year’s host, Cake Pop!, said, offering some advice to runners.
This year’s event, especially important to many.
“It’s always going to feel different with the changing times, but the spirit of community is still super strong,” Cake Pop! said.
For many in the crowd, the race was a reminder of the resilience and joy that defines DC.
“To continue to show that we’re still here and D.C. is still for the D.C. people,” said “sexy Michael Meyer”.
“This is the life of D.C. right now. This is fun, it’s happiness,” a spectator said. “With everything gloomy going on, this is fun.”
While Cake Pop! hosted the festivities, they made one thing clear: running in heels isn’t for everyone.
“I am exempt from running. It’s a conflict of interest since I’m the host,” Cake Pop! joked. “Maybe if I don’t host next year, you will see me on my couch… still not running.”
The High Heel Race continues to draw crowds from across the region, proving that a little sparkle and a sturdy pair of heels can go a long way.
[ad_2]