The 48th running of the iconic race will be celebrated worldwide as a virtual event beginning August 15 – on the birthday of late founder Tommy Leonard – and concluding on August 29, with runners covering 7 miles in their own neighborhoods any time during that period. With the Falmouth Board of Selectmen implementing a “no large event” policy through the end of August, race organizers have designed an experience for everyone to have fun while staying fit and focused on a goal this summer.
You’re a beginner? It’s OK to run, OR WALK, the 7-mile race one mile at a time, even over a period of several days. Try doing THAT in a race.
Need some motivation? There’s nothing like putting a race on your calendar. Remember that feeling?
Want some virtual race partners? Challenge your friends, no matter where they live, to enter and run it “with” you, then toast each other on a post-race video chat!
Want to run with your kids? A special family rate will be offered to include your kids, aged 10 and up. And don’t worry, we’re planning something very exciting for kids under 10 to join the fun, too!
Walking’s more your thing? Great – enjoy the scenery! There’s no time limit, virtual or otherwise. Walk, jog, skip, just cover 7 miles and upload your finishing time when complete.
Have the desire to help out? Run or walk for a Numbers for Nonprofits charity team and raise funds in this time of special need. Everyone participating with a Numbers for Nonprofits organization gets free entry! (Choose your charity here).
Looking for some swag? You’ve come to the right place. We plan to “Surprise & Delight” all summer long! Every registered participant will receive an official personalized bib, a New Balance shopping bag, a buff, all-summer access to a dynamic virtual gift bag of coupons and special offers, access to an “At-Home Edition” playlist on Spotify, a training program, online contests – including a chance to win a private Zoom session with elite athletes and VIPs – and, of course, the traditional and coveted mug.
Originally set for August 16, the 48th running of the race has become a worldwide virtual event, to be run in your own neighborhood any time between August 15 and August 29. When you’ve completed your 7 miles, simply upload results to be listed among the finishers.
Registration is open! The cost of entry is $50 for individuals or $100 for a family of up to four members, including kids ages 10-23. (Family-rate entries will receive two sets of “swag.”)
We encourage you to join one of our Numbers for Nonprofits charity teams for free, understanding that there is a fundraising minimum that must be met in order to receive your runner swag mailings.
“Unprecedented times lead to unprecedented opportunities,” said Scott Ghelfi, president of the Falmouth Road Race, Inc. board of directors. “The “At-Home Edition” gives us the opportunity to bring some fun and a sense of purpose to a summer of some uncertainty. For many, having a goal can make a huge difference, as can raising funds for a cause close to their heart. It’s our way of helping us come together at home, keeping the Falmouth spirit alive.”
Read more about the conception of the NBFRR At-Home Edition:
For more than 45 years, Falmouth Road Race, Inc. has promoted health, wellness, and pride in the community. In these unprecedented and uncertain times, the organization is striving to be consistent in its mission, continuing to provide its dedicated athletes, enthusiasts, and the community with an event to be proud of and one that supports people in need.
Cancelling just wasn’t an option for the Falmouth Road Race team.
“With safety always the top priority, we see an ‘At-Home’ event as the ideal option for 2020,” said Scott Ghelfi, president of the Falmouth Road Race, Inc., board of directors. “Although it’s sad to think of a summer in Falmouth without the usual race spectacle along our shores, conducting an ‘At-Home’ event will not only give runners from everywhere the chance to experience the Falmouth spirit but also give Falmouth Road Race, Inc., a way to show support for the town, our medical community, and our Numbers for Nonprofits participants, who are raising funds that will be needed now more than ever.”
Among the ways in which the race will show its commitment to nonprofit partners and the community through the “At-Home Edition”:
- The organization will be purchasing a total of $35,000 worth of gift cards from businesses throughout Falmouth to randomly award to participants. The intention is to assist the community now and help bring visitors back to town when it is again safe to travel.
- Falmouth Road Race, Inc., will donate $5,000 to Cape Kid Meals, the “grab-and-go” meals program for students.
- Proceeds from the “At-Home Edition” will again allow annual scholarships to be awarded to high school seniors who are Falmouth residents.
- Numbers for Nonprofits charity program partners will continue to receive support to maximize their fundraising efforts, including free registration for those running for a charity who raise a required minimum dollar amount for that organization. Incentive prizes and experiences, including a swag package, a donation match, and two chances to win a free entry into the 2021 New Balance Falmouth Road Race, will be offered to select participants by the race and its online fundraising partner, GoFundMe Charity.
“Running at home, together but apart, is the best way for all of us to show that we care about Falmouth – the town, its people, the race and its tradition – in 2020,” said Ghelfi. “Tommy Leonard wouldn’t want it any other way.”