The town of Bridgton is gearing up once again for the 29th annual Four on the Fourth Road Race, Maine’s second largest race behind the TD Banknorth Beach to Beacon 10K. Last year, over 1,500 runners registered for the race and over 1,300 finished the rugged USTAF certified four-mile course. This year, registration numbers are up slightly and the race committee is planning on another 1,500 runner turnout.
Founded in 1976 to benefit the Bridgton Public Library and its Children’s Room, the race started as a relatively small event, which grew as local runners, summer campers, and out-of-state visitors all began to make it a part of their Maine Fourth of July celebration.
Today, the race features online registration, Champion Chip timing, free T-shirts to the first 500 registrants, post-race refreshments and entertainment, and attractive prize packages to open winners.
Over the years, the race has provided a number of southern Maine business establishments the opportunity to support the town of Bridgton through the Four on the Fourth. This year, The Cool Moose, a focal point in downtown Bridgton since 1968, will be the lead sponsor for the 29th edition of the race. Other major sponsors include The Chalmers Group, Hayes True Value, Bridgton Hospital, Hancock Lumber, Poland Spring, One Beacon Insurance, Bridgton Academy, ToeGoz, Inc. of Portland, and Saco Bay Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy.
Register online at www.fouronthefourth.com, in person at The Cool Moose in Bridgton, or pick up a red, white and blue entry form at any number of Bridgton-area shops and restaurants. Due to the limited capacity of the race course and the increasing number of participants, the Race Committee has decided, beginning with the 2005 race, to limit the number of participants to 1,500, so be sure to register early. The fee is $15, ($18 after July 1), and the first 500 registrants will receive a free T-shirt.
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