Racing in the “Run for Justice” gives Herndon lawyer Doug Landau another excuse to wear a costume. Last year he was “Mr. Incredible” and Mrs. Landau was “Elasto-Girl.” At this year’s 5th Annual Run for Justice 5k benefitting the Fairfax Law Foundation, Landau ran as “Swift Justice.” With gavel in hand and black robe flowing, Landau’s goals were to finish in the top 10 and help raise money for the Law Foundation, as the Fairfax group’s e-mail is what caused him to be coaching Rachel Carson Middle School students this semester, and to be heading to George Mason University for the “We the People” National Championships this afternoon. (To see how the local Herndon middle schoolers did, go to the Landau Injury Law site.)

Participants in the Fairfax Corner event were encouraged to run in their favorite hero or villain costume. Prizes awarded to top finishers and best costumes (individuals and groups). This event has raised over $60,000 to benefit the Fairfax Law Foundation and its many community and pro bono legal programs. Prizes were awarded to the top 3 men and women finishers, top 3 masters male and female finishers and top 2 male and female finishers in ten year increments. While Landau had to miss the awards ceremony, he was 9th overall, 3rd Master and 2nd in his age group. He was also the first competitor in a costume to cross the finish line, in just under 21:00.

New this year was a costume contest featuring a judging panel on race day with souvenir photos of participants. Landau ran with his friends from Blankenship & Keith, who were a race sponsor as well. Running for the LSNV Mutant Turtles team, Sue Stoney won an age group award. Stoney daughters Mary (UVa’16, who Landau had coached in CYA soccer) and “ever smiling early morning Emma” made for a fit family trio. Despite an exhausting week of cases, races, coaching and continuing education, Landau showed no “judicial restraint,” was able to “put the hammer down,” and give chase to those fleeing justice on the rolling, windy and cold Fairfax Government Center course. Full results here