Part I ended with the runners making their first major turn. Charlie rounded the corner onto Hammond Street thinking to himself what a great day to run. It was overcast, not too hot with a breeze off the water. He started the race with his sister, Annie, and alongside two servicemen in fatigues, packs, and combat boots. That is not an easy way to run a race, but Charlie hopes they are able to finish. It was time to pick up his pace, so he gave a quick thanks to the servicemen, smiled at Annie, and moved ahead. Passing the tennis courts reminded him of high school and the years he played on these courts. Now there are beautiful courts at the high school.
Turning down North Street, Charlie realizes this is his favorite race. It celebrates so much of what he values: the nation’s birthday, seeing family and friends, hometown pride and substantial scholarships for graduating seniors. The turn onto Church Street makes Charlie chuckle. He has just passed the well-known “Barbie Garden,” grabs a water and notices the very red, white and blue decor at the Dall’s house. Further along Church is the most amazing display of Mattapoisett Road Race shirts at the Kassabian house. Everyone in the family runs the race at some point and every year there are new shirts hanging out front. When he passes the one-mile mark, Charlie realizes it is Ed Walsh holding the sign so he waves. Ed taught Charlie Social Studies in junior high, which was part of his motivation to become a history major.
When Charlie turns onto Route 6, he sees there are traffic cones in place to keep runners safe. He knows inexperienced runners are a little nervous running on such a well-traveled road but he knows it is safe. Charlie’s mind is now really focused on keeping up the pace but making sure he has the energy for the final portion of the race. The more accomplished runners are starting to separate themselves from the majority of the pack as they make the turn off Route 6.
In Part III, Annie will share her thoughts and her encounters with some of the other runners.