Since the Genesis Battlegreen Run began in 1996, the race has raised more than half a million dollars for area nonprofit organizations.
In 1996, the very first GenesisHR Battlegreen 10k Run took place on Sunday, November 3. At the time, it was hoped that the race would generate enough income to raise money for Habitat for Humanity Greater Boston and the Genesis Community Fund which provided scholarships to local students. After raising a few thousand dollars, the effort was considered a success.
26 Years Running
Since that time, on the first Sunday in November each year, under the auspices of the Battlegreen Run Foundation (BRF), the GenesisHR Battlegreen Run attracts more than 1,000 runners and walkers, some of whom participate “virtually” from as many as 20 states throughout the country.
Also, the GenesisHR Battlegreen Run has expanded and is comprised by four racing events:
- The Bob Ludwig Memorial 10k
- The Ralph Lord Memorial 5k
- The Boston Volvo Family Fun Run
- The Cancer 5k Walk
In 2016, a new fundraising model was adopted that affords qualified Non-Profit Organizations a platform to raise money for their individual causes. Since adopting this new model, the BRF has distributed more than $700,000 to their Non-Profit Partners (NPPs) and more than $900,000 since inception. It is anticipated that after funds are distributed in 2023, cumulative donations will well exceed $1,000,000.
Race Day
Successful fundraising is not the only characteristic that make this annual event different from so many other races.
There is entertainment too! The Sports Hub – 98.5 sets up shop and provides the perfect backdrop for Todd Angilly, soloist for the Boston Bruins as he sings the National Anthem before the runners are sent on their way, courtesy of musket fire provided by the Lexington Minutemen. The (insert band name here) serenades the crowd near the finish line which is truly something special.
But it is what happens post-race that make this event stand alone. At the finish, with the help of a bevy of volunteers, dozens for local food vendors set up a buffet line offering a post-race banquet to all who participate. This is an event where no one leaves hungry!