New Bedford’s 36th Annual Half Marathon

On Sunday, March 17, 2013, thousands of runners will participate in the 36th Annual New Bedford Half Marathon. The race is hosted by the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, a New Bedford based fraternal organization, and the City of New Bedford. The course is a challenging one that includes two major hills, waterfront views, and will be lined with hundreds of volunteers and cheering fans. Organizers have taken great care to ensure that the New Bedford Half Marathon continues to be one of the safest races in the region. More than 100 New Bedford police officers will patrol the course and ambulances and EMTs will be stationed throughout the city.

In addition, the race course is closed to vehicular traffic and residents are advised to plan ahead as traffic will be restricted from approximately 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. New Bedford Police encourage residents who live in the south end of the city, especially those who live on the peninsula, to plan to leave before 10:30 a.m. and return after 1:30 p.m. Residents are encouraged to avoid Route 18 southbound from Union Street south while the race is underway.

The New Bedford Police Department has identified two alternative routes for those who wish to gain access inside the course perimeter. Individuals looking to visit a patient at St. Luke’s Hospital or who need access to the inner perimeter for other reasons should consider the following routes:

1. Rt. 195 East bound to Penniman Street exit to County to Parker to Cottage St.
2. Rt. 195 Westbound to Downtown Exit to Rt. 18 Southbound to Rt. 6 exit (Downtown) to Mill Street to Cottage Street.

Mayor Jon Mitchell and the City of New Bedford Harbor Development Commission will offer complimentary parking and shuttle service for all runners from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free parking will be available at the Whale’s Tooth Parking Lot (Martha’s Vineyard Fast Ferry Parking, 532 Acushnet Avenue– Map) and the YMCA (where number pick-up and the Post Race Meal will take place– Map).

The entire New Bedford community is involved in welcoming the runners and their friends and families. Downtown New Bedford businesses will host the “Downtown Run” in conjunction with the race. From 12 noon to 5 p.m., visitors will have plenty to do and see in New Bedford’s downtown business district. Downtown New Bedford Inc., has organized a “scavenger hunt” style event that will lead families and “kids” of all ages to great prizes from Downtown restaurants, shops, museums and galleries. Participants obtain a free map and collect stamps from participating businesses in the downtown to be eligible for more than one dozen great prizes.

For the first time, New Bedford will also host a “Finisher’s Fest” in Wing’s Court for the runners, family and friends. Finisher’s Fest will feature live music by the Craig DeMello Band. Attendees can purchase food and drink from the merchants of Wings Court including Brick Pizza, Destination Soups, and the Pour Farm Tavern. Festivities will run from 12:30-3:00 p.m. weather permitting.

For more information on the race and race day activities please visit: www.newbedfordhalfmarathon.com.