Heat, victory, donuts: the 2018 Mattapoisett Road Race
Jul 4, 2018
Joe Farrand, 26, pushes through to the finish line. He won the race with 26 minutes on the clock. BY TYLER A. MCNEIL
Both Mondo sisters, Olivia and Madeline drink up after the five-mile run. BY TYLER A. MCNEIL
Two runners give each other a high five after finishing. BY TYLER A. MCNEIL
A runner quickly jerks his head after making it past his final destination. BY TYLER A. MCNEIL
Runner no. 439 carries along an inactive member of the competition. BY TYLER A. MCNEIL
Runners welcome the camera as they push past the starting line with the rest of the crowd. BY TYLER A. MCNEIL
For Joe Farrand of Mattapoisett, claiming victory at the Fourth of July Mattapoisett Road Race was a great going away present.
Farrand, 26, outlasted 1,003 other runners for five miles in sweltering conditions. He said his post-race plans were much more relaxed: Take a shower and hang out with friends at the beach for three days before moving to California.
“Perfect,” he said while trying to catch his breath. “It’s perfect.”
Oppressive weather didn’t keep Farrand from besting last year's winner, Taylor Days-Merril of Fairhaven, who finished fourth this year.
Similarly, on the women's side, Kim Bolick of Marion beat last year's winner, Madeline Mondo of Mattapoisett. Mondo finished second by 25 seconds.
“It was a lot cooler last year,” Mondo said with a laugh.
Bolick said its was tough to get comfortable in a good pace because the course has so many twists and turns.
“But it’s a good atmosphere,” she added. “Lots of fun, lots of cheering.”
Spectators lined parts of the village streets, giving a roar or support as runners passed by.
The Suzanne family continued a 20-year tradition as they eyed Main Street from picnic chairs, handing out donuts as runners passed by. About 10 runners picked up the glazed treats this year, said Mitch Suzanne Jr.
“I had fun with it,” Suzanne said.
You can check out more results at: www.my.racewire.com/results/35072
