Norwood Hospital Announces “Groundbreaker” Road Race to Kick Off $28 Million Expansion-September 3, 1981

Fitness enthusiasts and community supporters will soon lace up their running shoes as Norwood Hospital officially announces the inaugural “Groundbreaker” road race, scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on September 27. The athletic event serves as a festive centerpiece launching construction on the hospital’s massive $28 million Phase II expansion project.

Organized by the hospital’s physical therapy department, the race will commence on Washington Street directly in front of the main facility and conclude at the adjacent construction site. Competitors can choose between two distinct USATF-certified courses: a 3.1-mile run or a more demanding 6.2-mile course. Trophies will be awarded across three age divisions for both men and women—junior (under 18), open (19 to 40), and masters (over 40). Beyond divisional trophies, all registered runners become eligible for exciting raffle prizes, including Boston Patriots and Red Sox tickets, local restaurant gift certificates, and athletic running gear. A special runner’s clinic featuring attending physicians and physical therapists will also be on hand to answer questions regarding training and injury prevention.

Registration is currently open for a $5 entry fee postmarked before September 21, after which late registration increases to $6 and remains available up until 9:45 a.m. on race day. Interested participants or volunteers can secure registration details by contacting the hospital at 769-4000, extensions 248 and 249, or local contact Rick Moriarty at 668-9087. All proceeds generated by the event are earmarked directly for the Norwood Hospital building fund.

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger