Leonide J. Lemire Road Race 4.9 Mile Run
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Event Details
The Leonide J. Lemire Road Race is a 5-mile run held in Southbridge, Massachusetts, on July 4. It is described as one of the longest-running road races in the United States. The event was created by the local VFW Post 6055 to honor Leonide J. Lemire, a Southbridge native and the town's first casualty of World War II, who died at Pearl Harbor.
Event Format
The race includes several event categories:
- 5M - Individual: Open to ages 1 to 64.
- 5M - Seniors: Open to ages 65 to 99.
- 5M - Military
- 5M - Solo Chair
- 5M - Duo Team Chair
- Virtual Run-5 Mile Run/Walk
Registration for the individual, solo chair, and duo team chair events is $25, with a price increase after June 20. Registration for seniors and military personnel is free. A virtual 5-mile run/walk option is available for $20.
Course and Amenities
The course is described as scenic and passes all military monuments and memorials in Southbridge honoring local veterans, including a bridge dedicated to the town's veterans. The route has two water stations and water hoses for cooling runners are set up in front of a fire station. Police and race marshals lead, tail, and mark the route. Volunteers from a local running group and local scouts also provide support.
Schedule and Location
For the 2026 edition, the race has a new start and finish location at the Southbridge Community Center at 153 Chestnut Street. A pasta dinner is hosted at the same location on July 3. Number pickup is available before the dinner on July 3. On race day, pre-race activities open at 7:00 AM. The race starts at 8:00 AM for wheelchair participants and 8:03 AM for runners.
Post-Race
Awards are presented starting at 9:15 AM for in-person participants only. Categories include overall, Southbridge resident, military, solo chair, duo chair team, and various age groups. Water, finger sandwiches, and fruit are provided at the finish line. There is also a random prize drawing for all entered runners and volunteers. All proceeds after expenses benefit the Veterans Council of Southbridge. Results are posted online by The EMPIRE Timing Co. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
