HOPKINTON — Community members are invited to lace up their running shoes and support a pair of meaningful causes during the 50 Laps for $50 Million Relay on Thursday, Aug. 20, at Hopkinton High School.
The event will help support Mike Palmer as he works toward earning a spot in the 2027 Tokyo Marathon while raising funds for the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. Palmer, a Hopkinton native who is on the autism spectrum, has become an accomplished marathon runner and a passionate advocate for autism acceptance through his work with the Flutie Foundation.
Participants will work together to complete 50 laps around the Hopkinton High School track in a relay-style event, with runners of all ages and abilities encouraged to take part. Organizers hope the evening will bring the community together while helping Palmer continue his marathon journey and raise awareness for autism.
Palmer has completed multiple major marathons, including the Boston, New York, Berlin, and Marine Corps Marathons, and has represented the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation at races across the country. As a member of the Foundation’s Board of Directors and a self-advocate, he regularly shares his story to inspire others and promote opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Funds raised through the relay will benefit Palmer’s efforts to compete in the 2027 Tokyo Marathon, where he will once again run on behalf of the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. The Foundation supports programs, services, employment initiatives, and family resources that help individuals with autism lead fuller, more independent lives.
Organizers are encouraging runners, walkers, volunteers, and supporters from throughout the region to attend the event, cheer on participants, and help make a difference for the autism community while supporting one of Hopkinton’s own as he prepares for his next World Marathon Major.
