On Monday, Sept. 4th, Walpole hosted its 50th annual Labor Day Road Race in honor of the holiday weekend. After growing success through various years, such a grand milestone welcomed Walpole residents and outside runners to support Walpole High School’s (WHS) Running Programs. In turn, WHS Cross Country and Track and Field athletes were able to compete with alumni, loved ones and a variety of runners to raise money for the year long seasons, building additional long-lasting community bonds.
The event included three races, aimed to allow runners of all levels to participate. The day started off with the Children’s one mile, a fun run dedicated for both kids and parental guardians to run alongside each other while supporters and participants cheered on. Following was the “Walpole Ed” 5k, a rather casual race that allowed participants to choose a run or a walk for the three miles. Lastly was the most popular event, the Herb Lewis Memorial and John D. Murphy 10k race. A circuit of slightly more than six miles, the race additionally provided a virtual and in-person option for those who were unable to run; in return, this furthered the number of participants and varied support.
The event was mainly based around Walpole High School, where the starting line, tents of activities and supporters of the runners lined up. In addition, the event allowed for various volunteering opportunities throughout the day, bringing individuals together on the holiday weekend to support loved ones and demonstrating a sense of collectivity in Walpole. The event could not have been run without help from the volunteers, who set up and cleaned up the event, as well as worked water stations and gave undivided attention and support to athletes.
Even with the main goal of uniting Walpole and nearby community members, the race was another opportunity to challenge athletes of all ages. Regular season runners were given the chance to compete against athletes with various times and distances, pushing each runner to adapt to a new athletic environment and improve overall skills as a whole.
“The race is always pretty tough especially with the hill on Common Street, but it’s a good way to start the season and get involved with the community” said Sean Kerin, a WHS student, three-season runner and second place 5k finisher.
As always, the Walpole Annual Labor Day Road Race is a fundraiser that brings revenue in to support all running programs supported by WHS; regardless, it has grown to be a tradition that many look forward to and train for. Over the years, the race has gained various sponsors and vast success that will further build the WHS Running Programs in years to come.
