One of Andover’s premiere annual events, the Feaster Five Road Race is ready to hit 25 years on Thanksgiving Day.
On Thursday, Nov. 22, the 25th annual event through downtown Andover is expected to attract as many as 10,000 walkers and runners. The Feaster Five is a community event that attract a variety of people, from serious runners to families and friends walking together in costume. The tradition is not just another road race. It features bands and music along the course, digital clocks posted at each mile, holiday refreshments after the race and, of course, a traditional apple pie for all finishers.
It’s not to late to join the fun. People can still register in person on Wednesday, Nov. 21 at the Andover/North Andover YMCA, 165 Haverhill St., Andover. People who have already registered can also pick up their bibs and T-shirts at the Y Wednesday.
Those interested in taking part can register the morning of the race at Woodworth Motors, 339 North Main St. in Andover.
Hosted by the Merrimack Valley Striders and managed by DMSE Sports, the Eagle-Tribune Feaster Five Road Race’s 5-mile and 5-kilometer races will begin at 8:30 a.m. and the Kid’s Fun Run at 7:45 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 22. The adult races begin near Shawsheen Square on Main Street in Andover, at the corner of Routes 133 and 28 and the Kids Fun Run is held on a nearby track called Lower Shawsheen. Runners can see proceeds from the race benefit Ironstone Farm, Merrimack Valley YMCA and the Merrimack Valley Striders.
For many years the Andover Townsman was a race sponsor and then its parent paper the Eagle-Tribune took over that role.
This year entrants will receive a 25th commemorative technical shirt by Saucony, in addition to the traditional Feaster apple pie. The Feaster Five website features videos of the 5K and 5-mile courses as well as a training program for first-time runners, provided by the Merrimack Valley Striders.
Among the VIPs, the race will again welcome New England running legends Joan Samuelson and Bill Rodgers as well as father-son Team Hoyt, according to a release.
The race provides free parking and a printed race program, courtesy of the Eagle-Tribune Publishing Co. Volunteers are needed. Detailed information about how to sign up to help on race day can be found on the volunteer page atfeasterfive.com/Volunteer or by e-mailing Crissy Licciardello at crissyL26@yahoo.com.
