Falmouth Road Race

The Falmouth Road Race is an annual seven-mile (11.3 km) competition that begins in Woods Hole and concludes at Falmouth Heights beach, drawing over 12,000 runners along a coastal route that passes Nobska Light and follows the shoreline of Martha's Vineyard Sound.

Founded on August 15, 1973, by Boston bartender and runner Tommy Leonard, the race initially attracted fewer than 100 participants but gained national attention when Olympic marathon champion Frank Shorter competed in 1975, leading to rapid growth and recognition as a premier American road race.

The race has become a celebrated summer tradition that combines competitive athletics with community spirit, featuring elite international runners alongside recreational participants who support local charities, while spectators gather along the coastal route to enjoy the festive atmosphere and scenic views.

Participants are selected through a lottery system from thousands of applicants, with reserved spots for Falmouth residents, and the course features a challenging hill at the start in Woods Hole followed by coastal roads before a final uphill climb to the finish line.

Five runners known as The Falmouth Five have completed 46 consecutive races since the event's inception, demonstrating remarkable dedication and embodying the enduring community spirit that founder Tommy Leonard envisioned when he created the race from friendship and camaraderie.

Location: Falmouth

Inception: 1973

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Operator: Falmouth Road Race

Color: red

Phone: +1(508)5407000

GPS coordinates: 41.53388,-70.63377

Latest update: November 28, 2025 15:19