Leonide J. Lemire Road Race 4.9 Mile Run
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Event Overview
The Leonide J. Lemire Road Race is a 4.9-mile run held annually on July 4th in Southbridge, Massachusetts. It claims to be the longest-running road race of this specific distance in the United States. The event honors Southbridge native Leonard J. Lemire, who was killed at Pearl Harbor and was the town's first casualty of World War II.
Event Details
The race begins and ends at the Tri-Community Family Branch YMCA at 43 Everett Street. The route is described as scenic and passes monuments and memorials dedicated to local veterans. There are two water stations along the course. On race day, locker room facilities at the YMCA will be available for participants. Parking is available at the Credit Union on Main Street, while the YMCA lot is reserved for staff, volunteers, and a specific team.
Several event categories are offered:
- 4.9M - Individual (ages 1-64, $25)
- 4.9M - Seniors (ages 65-99, free)
- 4.9M - Military (free)
- 4.9M - Solo Chair ($25)
- 4.9M - Duo Team Chair ($25)
- Virtual Run ($20)
Wheelchair athletes start at 8:00 AM, followed by runners and walkers at 8:05 AM. Registration opens on May 2, 2026, and there is race-day registration starting at 7:00 AM at the YMCA. There is no early bib pickup.
Awards and Community Impact
Awards are given for in-person participants only. Categories include first overall male/female, first Southbridge resident, first military participant, first solo chair, first duo chair team, and first place in various age groups from 10-19 to 70+. Post-race refreshments, finisher prizes for age groups, and random prize drawings are provided. All proceeds from the race benefit the Southbridge YMCA, which uses the funds to provide memberships for military personnel, veterans, and those on active duty. Results are posted online. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
