Newton's Heartbreak Hill Road Race Draws More than 500 Participants

A day before tens of thousands of runners would hit the famous Heartbreak Hill, the Newton Community had its own race on the famous route. 

According to the mayor's office, more than 500 people participated in the on Sunday, the largest participation in the race's 20 year history.

The one-mile race, which welcomes runners of all ages, benefits the Newton Community Service Center and the Boys & Girls Club of Newton.

"[Sunday's] Heartbreak Hill Road Race was a great success," Mayor Setti Warren said in an email earlier this week. "This event highlights the tremendous partnerships we have here in Newton with numerous organizations. Not only is the road race a great time for kids of all ages, but it has an impact on our community, helping to support important non-profit organizations that provide critical services to families across Newton."

This year's road race welcomed a number of new groups, including 8-year-old participants and wheelchair athletes.