Ollie Road Race - Proceeds To Benefit The South Boston Neighborhood House

A South Boston Staple For 69 Years

Following the Settlement House tradition, the Ollie Road Race Classic was initiated in 1941 and is one of the longstanding road races in New England. Beginning as an athletic event for young men, the Ollie Road Race Classic is now more than just a race – it is a community event that provides all family members with the opportunity to celebrate the positive aspects of the neighborhood. A festive atmosphere that not only promotes the athletic accomplishments for all participants, but the reward of a book at the finish line for all walkers and runners reinforces the importance of education for all members of the family.

Friendships are Formed In today’s version of the Ollie Road Race, it is a weekend event that evokes heartwarming and breathtaking scenarios of preschoolers, adolescents, parents, and grandparents all participating in the running and walking events that supports family values. This makes this community extravaganza so unique and captivating.

Throughout the 1950’s, 60’s, and 70’s, the Ollie Road Race Classic was an integral part of the fall that became a trademark for the youth of the community. Beginning in the 1980’s and now into the 21st century, the Ollie Road Race Classic is an event that young people experience; parents continue to participate support as a mainstay in our community.

Although the community’s families have been part of the tradition of the Ollie Road Race Classic for many years, the race and festivities draw many athletes and families from other communities. The challenging course, family atmosphere, post-race carnival, and tradition of the “Ollie” as a settlement house that has built bridges throughout the city and state have attracted not only racers, but also supporters of the mission of the Neighborhood House.

Out In Front As a private, non-profit settlement house, the South Boston Neighborhood House relies on private funding to support the majority of its programming. Businesses and neighbors have continued to step up to be major contributors to the Ollie Road Race Classic, enabling the agency to expand its programming or answer crises in times of need.

Moving into the 21st century the South Boston Neighborhood House has the opportunity to continue to strategically support the new challenges that face the community. So too, the Ollie Road Race is a venue that can attract longtime residents, newcomers to the community, and old and new businesses as supporters. Funders, contributors, and supporters understand the value of a strong family that embraces and identifies with the South Boston Neighborhood House as the agency that is committed to improving the quality of life for all families.

The decision to upgrade the adult version of the Ollie Road Race Classic was one that based on the South Boston Neighborhood House’s 10 year Strategic Plan. After reviewing the history and current impact of the race, as well as the potential resources available especially with the impending development of the South Boston Waterfront and Seaport District, the Neighborhood House made the decision to upgrade the event. The goal is to establish a quality race with top-level competition in a world-class venue on Boston’s scenic Waterfront. This has not been done since the old Freedom Trail Race.

By increasing the participant and donor level, we hope to not only provide financial support to the South Boston Neighborhood House and other non-profit partners, but we hope to continue the theme of building bridges by making Boston’s new Waterfront a place where all people of all neighborhoods and families will be attracted to the beauty and culture of Boston.