The Cherry Blossom 10-Mile Race

Kevin Fenton

Every spring in Washington, DC, as the cherry blossoms unfurl their petals, tens of thousands gather for more than just a race—they gather for a shared experience. The Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Run has long been a beloved centerpiece of the city’s iconic festival, but after more than a decade without a brand refresh, its identity was beginning to feel as weathered as a well-worn pair of running shoes.

I was invited to help breathe new life into this tradition. With the board of directors and a passionate team of volunteers, I set out to capture not just what the race looked like, but what it felt like. Through in-depth conversations with participants, sponsors, and stakeholders, one truth rang clear: this was a celebration. A joyful, collective moment where elite athletes and everyday runners came together in a shared pursuit, fueled by the energy of community and the beauty of spring.
Inspired by this spirit, I designed a new identity that celebrated both the athleticism of the run and the exuberant atmosphere surrounding it. The new brand is vibrant and layered, much like the festival itself! I created a visual tapestry that honors the race’s legacy while looking toward its future.
Brand Positioning A race that’s more than a race: a gift that unites people in a shared rhythm and leaves behind a lasting spark of togetherness.
Brand Promise We come alive when we’re together. In a world too often lived in isolation, this race is proof of the magic that happens when thousands move toward the same goal, side by side.
The result is an identity that doesn’t just mark an event, it really tells a story of community, celebration, and the unforgettable electricity of being part of something bigger than yourself.
Like this project

Posted Jul 31, 2025

The rebranded race boosted runner participation by 40%, turning the Cherry Blossom 10-Miler into an even bigger celebration of community and endurance.

Likes

0

Views

3

Timeline

Apr 8, 2022 - Apr 2, 2023

Brand + Web Design: Redwood Trust
Brand + Web Design: Redwood Trust
Baccarat Hotels & Residences — Maldives Property
Baccarat Hotels & Residences — Maldives Property
Digital Ad Campaigns for Olipop
Digital Ad Campaigns for Olipop
Paytient Brand Evolution
Paytient Brand Evolution

Join 50k+ companies and 1M+ independents

Contra Logo

© 2025 Contra.Work Inc