Nearly 250 years ago — in the last week of April, 1777 — local patriots fought the British, in the Battle of Compo Hill.
The Minute Man Race is not nearly as old — only 46 years. But in that half century, it’s become a cherished Westport tradition.
Sponsored by the Westport Young Woman’s League, and held at Compo Beach a few yards from the Minute Man statue, and the small graveyard where local militia men are buried, the rite of spring draws hundreds of runners, of all ages.
They compete in 10K and 5K runs, special kids’ events, and a myTeamTriumph race for those with disabilities.
“06880” photographer Ryan Allen was there this morning. Here’s what the Staples High School sophomore captured:
No sporting event is complete without the national anthem.
And they’re off!
Enjoying the myTeam Triumph race.
(All photos/Ryan Allen)
Thanks you Dan for including a couple pictures of myTeam Triumph. We had a great race today with 16 Captains (Special Needs Athletes) and over 60 volunteers. If any of your readers are interested in getting involved, please visit: http://www.myTeamTriumph-ct.org.
The first race started and ended at The Women’s Clubhouse. I remember Rose Mary Ryan at the finish line with a boom box on her shoulder, playing the theme from “Chariots of Fire”, inspiring the finishers.
Hmmmm… this was the 46th annual race, meaning it started in 1979. But “Chariots of Fire” came out in 1981. So maybe that was ONE of the early races …
It is a very old memory (and very vivid) – maybe it wasn’t for the first race and the memory is 2 years younger??? I haven’t heard from Mary Lana Brown or Rose Mary agreeing or disagreeing.