HOPEDALE — Last week, the 16th Annual Hopedale Blue Raider 5K brought runners, student volunteers, families, and community supporters together for another successful race. The 5k honored the legacy of Coach Larry Olsen, while raising money for Hopedale Athletics and local student athletes.
This year’s race saw strong community energy and better weather than last year’s rain-soaked event. 5K organizer Jess Allen said the turnout and atmosphere made for a memorable day.
“Great turnout, great community energy, and the rain didn’t stop us,” Allen said.
The event continues to support the Hopedale Athletic Boosters, which helps fund athletic equipment, senior activities, scholarships, and other needs that may fall outside the regular athletic budget. Allen said the race’s proceeds also help support graduating seniors who have participated in athletics for multiple seasons.
The race also continues to honor Coach Larry Olsen, whose impact on Hopedale athletics remains deeply felt. Drugan described Olsen as a gifted athlete, coach and mentor whose influence continues through the students and athletes he helped shape.
“Ee represented the epitome of being a great coach,” according to Drugan.
One of this year’s standout moments came before the race, when Allen spoke with an older runner who came specifically because of his connection to Olsen.
“I’m here because I knew Larry, and this means something to me,” Allen recalled him saying.
This year’s race also delivered major achievements on the course. Allie Crocker was the first overall finisher and set a women’s course record, while Hopedale track athlete Tegan Richards set a course record in the under-13 division. Allen said seeing female runners lead the way was especially meaningful given Olsen’s history as a girls coach.
Student volunteers also played a major role in keeping the event running smoothly. Allen credited parents and students for helping make the race possible year after year.
“This was a huge group effort for the parents of kids at the Hopedale Junior Senior High School,” mentioned Allen.
Looking ahead, organizers hope to continue growing the race while preserving its community-centered spirit. Allen said she would love to see even more energy along the course in future years, especially on the race’s challenging hill.
To learn more about the Hopedale Blue Raider 5K, visit their website.
