Bridge of Flowers Classic Races Slated for Aug. 8

SHELBURNE FALLS — Baystate Franklin Medical Center is the presenting sponsor for the Greater Shelburne Falls Area Business Association’s 37th annual Bridge of Flowers Classic Races, coming up on Saturday morning, Aug. 8.

While the 10K race through Shelburne Falls draws elite athletes from throughout the Northeast, the 3K charity run/walk offers an option for others to participate at their own pace and fitness level.

“We are fortunate to live and work in an area that is prime running and walking country,” said Dr. Thomas Higgins, chief medical officer and interim president of Baystate Franklin. “And the Bridge of Flowers races serve as goals for many people in our communities during their spring and summer training. Physical fitness is central to overall health and well-being, and we are delighted to support this inspiring event.”

The Bridge of Flowers Classic Races attract more than 1,000 participants to Shelburne Falls. The 10K race, which starts at 9 a.m., is a spectator-friendly, figure-8 course that begins with a gradual climb from the village center’s historic iron bridge, then wends its way through neighborhood streets before circling back to the bridge, up Crittendon Hill, and back into town along shady downhill roads and flats. The 3K charity run/walk begins at 8:15 a.m. and follows the same first loop as the later run. An awards ceremony and after party will follow the 10K run in a spot overlooking the falls.

Race-day registration opens at 7 a.m. Registration may be completed online at www.bridgeofflowers10k.com; at the pre-race Spaghetti Fest on Friday evening, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School, 75 Mechanic St., Shelburne Falls; or on the day of the race. All participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt featuring artwork by a local artist.