The Groton Road Race strides into its 18th year – Sunday April 26th 2009!

The Groton Road Race strides into its 18th year – Sunday April 26th 2009!
A refreshed team, a renewed sense of commitment promises a great event for local athletes.
There was some question this fall as to whether the highly regarded Groton Road Race would be held at all in its 18th year. A few of the key members of the race director’s team were moving on and the question was asked whether or not it would be better to let the much-loved local event “go out on top”.
As is the case in many situations like this the community stepped forward and provided a new influx of talented volunteers and this local tradition is poised to pull off another spectacular event for Groton and adjoining towns.
Something for every family member…
This year marks the 18th running of the venerable road race. Each April for the last 18 years the local families have gathered at the middle school in Groton to partake in the series of races. There will be no major changes to the courses, schedules or other event details in 2009 so families and runners can continue to choose the event that suits them – 10K, 5K, 2K or Tot’s Trot. The whole family can come down to the middle school track to compete, cheer, celebrate or just enjoy the sun in the infield.
As in previous years there will be full athlete support with free massage, EMT, refreshments, baked goods, food & drinks and live music! It’s a road race party and you are invited.
Unique scenic country course closed for the racers…
Groton is unique among local races in that it continues to provide a closed course (no cars) for its competitors. The course itself is something that anyone who has run Groton raves about. Rolling country roads through farms, forest and community will greet those taking on the 5K and 10K.
Continuing the “Awesome Shirt” tradition…
Again this year Milan Studios has outdone itself in producing a shirt design that is a must have. Upholding the Groton Road Race tradition of high quality professional graphics design that truly captures the nature of the community and the event – this year is outstanding and you will love it.
Great sponsorship and more runner prizes!
The expanded race team this year enabled the gathering up of all sorts of prizes and gift certificates for participants. In addition to our traditional sponsors stepping up in difficult times many in-kind sponsors will be providing great stuff for the participants. (List of key sponsors here)
Still a bargain!
With all the doom and gloom of the economy the Groton Road Races are still an affordable event. The race fees have been kept low to encourage participation. Again this year online sign-up is available at www.grotonroadrace.com for no additional fee.
And it’s all for the kids…
The Groton Road Races are a completely non-profit organization run by 100% volunteers. The proceeds of the event go support youth sports and running. Specifically the race hosts the summer track and field program that has fostered generations of young athletes. The race also funds college scholarships for young athletes. In addition donations are made to the cross country, and track programs of schools in the surrounding towns.
Sign up soon – the race it coming April 26th…
Make sure to get your race sign up completed so that you are ensured a race t-shirt. Remember to come early to the Groton Middle School and give yourself time to park. You will want to be on time to drink in the wonderful spectacle that is the 18th Groton Road Race.
Chris Russell lives and trains in suburban Massachusetts with his family and Border collie Buddy. Chris is the author of “The Mid-Packer’s Lament”, and “The Mid-Packer’s Guide to the Galaxy”, short stories on running, racing, and the human comedy of the mid-pack. Chris writes the Runnerati Blog at www.runnerati.com. Chris’ Podcast, RunRunLive is available on iTunes and at www.runrunlive.com. Chris also writes for CoolRunning.com (Active.com) and is a member of the Squannacook River Runners. ChrisRunner@runrunlive.com
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