A Thanksgiving Tradition

By Pinewood Furniture

As a business that has been around since 1955, we understand history and tradition.

When thinking about history and tradition, one can’t help but think about the annual Manchester Road Race, which takes place every Thanksgiving.

The race, which goes right by Pinewood Furniture, began in 1927 with just 12 runners. Today, there are more than 15,000 registered runners and walkers.

After 10 years during the depression and World War II without a race, residents once again saw racers coming down the streets of Manchester on Thanksgiving morning. Through the support of the local Army-Navy Club and Recreation Department, the race was revived in 1945.

Earl Yost, then sports editor for the Manchester Herald, was very instrumental in bringing the race back.

That year, 20 interested athletes returned entry forms and eight were at the starting line on Thanksgiving morning. The first four finishers that day were all former Manchester High School runners.

By 1956 the number of race participants broke double-digits with 104 runners. This was just the beginning, however, as there has been an increase in numbers every year since.

In 1961, the first woman ran the Manchester Road Race.

The race will kick off at 10 a.m. sharp from in front St. James Church and is 4.748 miles long. There is a free shuttle at Manchester Community College and there are suitable viewing areas along the entire length of the Manchester Road Race. Main Street in Downtown Manchester near the Start/Finish line is probably the most popular.

Since parking is limited, traffic can be heavy and some streets will be partially or completely closed. It is recommended that you take the free shuttle bus, walk to your favorite viewing area, and/or plan to arrive well before the race begins.

We at Pinewood Furniture wish all the racers well and we hope that everyone has a happy Thanksgiving!