By Rick Winterson

     A two-day event, the 67th Annual Ollie Road Race will take place on Saturday and Sunday, September 8-9.  Saturday the 8th is a USA Track & Field (New England) top tier, 5-mile championship, followed by youth races on Sunday.  Entertainment, refreshments, free parking, and a post-race party for runners are part of the festivities.

     No sooner had the Provincetown II docked after the South Boston Neighborhood House Cruise than planning began for the Ollie Road Race.  At 41 years of age, this race is not only a tradition but also has a lot of great running stories surrounding it.  And it is a key fundraiser for the many year-round activities at the Neighborhood House.

     First, it’s fitting that the donors and sponsors who do so much for the race be recognized.  The “Title Sponsor” is John Hancock, an organization that has kept its promise to be a major factor in supporting South Boston’s non-profits agencies.  Other sponsors comprise Dunkin’ Donuts, Poland Springs, MassPort, Mt. Washington Bank, and Sheraton Boston Hotel.

     Free parking is being donated by Gale International, in the lot across from the Moakley Courthouse.  Salsa’s will provide goodies and salsa (surprised?); chowder will be available from Kelly’s Roast Beef (Revere).  Recorded music will be courtesy of MIX 93.7 FM; the Linehans and Leo Stapleton will provide live music.  Harpoon is hosting the post-race party.  And most important, the Bank of America is throwing open its Pavilion to anchor the occasion.

     The five-mile race and walk on Saturday starts near at the Pavilion.  Registration opens at 7:30 a.m.; the race starts at 10 a.m. after the National Anthem.  The Ollie is truly scenic..... READ MORE