Shirley May France 10k Road Race
- Date Sat 19th September 2026
- Time 5:00PM EDT
- Location Somerset, Massachusetts
- Price $19.00 - $60.72
- Races 3 races
- Distances 10km, 1 Mile, 5km
Event summary
Get ready to lace up your running shoes for the thrilling Shirley May France 10K and 5K Road Races, taking place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, in the heart of Somerset, Bristol! This exciting event not only honors the inspiring legacy of Shirley May France, a local swimming legend known for her remarkable endurance and determination, but also celebrates the spirit of community and perseverance. Participants will have the chance to run through beautiful Somerset while embracing the challenge of the 10K and 5K distances.
Join fellow runners, families, and supporters as we come together to uplift our local businesses and raise funds for The Cure Starts Now - Somerset chapter, an organization dedicated to pediatric brain cancer research. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or simply enjoying the day with friends, this race is a testament to courage and the indomitable human spirit. Don’t miss out on being part of this inspiring event that combines athleticism with a heartfelt mission. Come celebrate Somerset’s strength, both past and present!
Join fellow runners, families, and supporters as we come together to uplift our local businesses and raise funds for The Cure Starts Now - Somerset chapter, an organization dedicated to pediatric brain cancer research. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or simply enjoying the day with friends, this race is a testament to courage and the indomitable human spirit. Don’t miss out on being part of this inspiring event that combines athleticism with a heartfelt mission. Come celebrate Somerset’s strength, both past and present!
Organiser's Description
THE SHIRLEY MAY FRANCE ROAD RACE
The Legacy of Shirley May France
A Somerset Legend
Born and raised in Somerset, Massachusetts, Shirley May France developed a deep love for the water that would shape the course of her life. As a teenager, she emerged as one of the most accomplished and promising long-distance swimmers of her era, earning national recognition for her remarkable endurance and determination.
Among her many achievements, Shirley became the first woman to swim across Lake George in the prestigious Lake George Marathon, setting women's world records at both the two-mile and five-mile marks. Her success in open-water swimming quickly established her as a rising star in the sport and captured the attention of audiences across the country.
Chasing the English Channel
Shirley's greatest challenge was the legendary English Channel. At a young age, she became the youngest woman to attempt the crossing, taking on one of the world's most demanding endurance feats. Between 1949 and 1950, she made multiple attempts to conquer the Channel, facing powerful tides, frigid temperatures, and unpredictable weather conditions.
While the Channel ultimately proved unforgiving, Shirley's perseverance won the admiration of countless supporters. Newspapers closely followed her training and progress, while the people of Somerset rallied behind their hometown hero. She became more than an athleteshe became a symbol of courage, determination, and the willingness to pursue extraordinary goals.
An Inspiration That Endures
Today, Shirley's legacy continues to inspire generations through the Shirley May France 10K and 5K Road Races. These events honor not only her athletic accomplishments but also the character she demonstrated throughout her life. Her story reminds us that success is measured not only by achievements, but also by the courage to face challenges head-on and the determination to keep moving forward.
Just as Shirley entered the open water with hope, resilience, and unwavering resolve, every participant who steps to the starting line embodies that same spirit. Whether you're striving for a personal best, running with friends and family, or simply challenging yourself to take the next step, you become part of a tradition rooted in perseverance and community.
Carrying Her Legacy Forward
The Shirley May France Race is more than a road raceit's a celebration of a remarkable woman, a proud Somerset legacy, and the enduring belief that there is honor in striving toward something greater than ourselves.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Shirley's story and the community that supported her. Lace up your running shoes, take a deep breath, and become part of a tradition that honors courage, determination, and the joy of pushing forward.
The race begins with you. female signmale sign
A RACE WITH A MISSION: SUPPORTING LOCAL
Proudly presented by BANK FIVE, this event is more than a runits a rally for our community. Our 2026 charity of choice is, The Cure Starts Now - Somerset chapter. Led by Ken and Michelle Oheman in honor of their late daughter Selina. The Cure Starts Now raises money for research on pediatric brain cancer. We are proud to help support such a wonderful cause that has had a profound affect on our community. The race is also designed to spotlight and stimulate business for the local establishments that make Somerset shine. Many of our community's beloved staples are just steps from the course, including:
* Comfort Zone Grille & Bar
* BankFive
* St. Anne's Credit Union
* Somerset Creamery
* Auclairs Market
* Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
Whether youre running, cheering, or simply soaking in the day, youre helping to uplift Somersets small businesses and community pride.
LACE UP, SHOW UP, AND CELEBRATE SOMERSETS STRENGTHPAST AND PRESENT!
LINK TO VIDEO OF THE 2025 RACE TAKEN BY SATV LINK TO VIDEO [https://cloud.castus.tv/vod/somerset/video/68de8f527d3de200024cb583?page=HOME&fbclid=IwY2xjawNLkqlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFCR25yQWJ1VWhVS0R2a0FnAR5zJgyHXn3zFtyogetR4kt1v_Nwo9Ao4Txz5QJOxafj1Vjt4Pr22dg-uYiotg_aem_mnSyolhixHyjpeyPOvn1Ew]
LINK TO 2025 RACE PHOTOS LINK TO PHOTOS [https://runsignup.com/Race/Photos/MA/Somerset/ShirleyMayFrance10k]
The Legacy of Shirley May France
A Somerset Legend
Born and raised in Somerset, Massachusetts, Shirley May France developed a deep love for the water that would shape the course of her life. As a teenager, she emerged as one of the most accomplished and promising long-distance swimmers of her era, earning national recognition for her remarkable endurance and determination.
Among her many achievements, Shirley became the first woman to swim across Lake George in the prestigious Lake George Marathon, setting women's world records at both the two-mile and five-mile marks. Her success in open-water swimming quickly established her as a rising star in the sport and captured the attention of audiences across the country.
Chasing the English Channel
Shirley's greatest challenge was the legendary English Channel. At a young age, she became the youngest woman to attempt the crossing, taking on one of the world's most demanding endurance feats. Between 1949 and 1950, she made multiple attempts to conquer the Channel, facing powerful tides, frigid temperatures, and unpredictable weather conditions.
While the Channel ultimately proved unforgiving, Shirley's perseverance won the admiration of countless supporters. Newspapers closely followed her training and progress, while the people of Somerset rallied behind their hometown hero. She became more than an athleteshe became a symbol of courage, determination, and the willingness to pursue extraordinary goals.
An Inspiration That Endures
Today, Shirley's legacy continues to inspire generations through the Shirley May France 10K and 5K Road Races. These events honor not only her athletic accomplishments but also the character she demonstrated throughout her life. Her story reminds us that success is measured not only by achievements, but also by the courage to face challenges head-on and the determination to keep moving forward.
Just as Shirley entered the open water with hope, resilience, and unwavering resolve, every participant who steps to the starting line embodies that same spirit. Whether you're striving for a personal best, running with friends and family, or simply challenging yourself to take the next step, you become part of a tradition rooted in perseverance and community.
Carrying Her Legacy Forward
The Shirley May France Race is more than a road raceit's a celebration of a remarkable woman, a proud Somerset legacy, and the enduring belief that there is honor in striving toward something greater than ourselves.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Shirley's story and the community that supported her. Lace up your running shoes, take a deep breath, and become part of a tradition that honors courage, determination, and the joy of pushing forward.
The race begins with you. female signmale sign
A RACE WITH A MISSION: SUPPORTING LOCAL
Proudly presented by BANK FIVE, this event is more than a runits a rally for our community. Our 2026 charity of choice is, The Cure Starts Now - Somerset chapter. Led by Ken and Michelle Oheman in honor of their late daughter Selina. The Cure Starts Now raises money for research on pediatric brain cancer. We are proud to help support such a wonderful cause that has had a profound affect on our community. The race is also designed to spotlight and stimulate business for the local establishments that make Somerset shine. Many of our community's beloved staples are just steps from the course, including:
* Comfort Zone Grille & Bar
* BankFive
* St. Anne's Credit Union
* Somerset Creamery
* Auclairs Market
* Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
Whether youre running, cheering, or simply soaking in the day, youre helping to uplift Somersets small businesses and community pride.
LACE UP, SHOW UP, AND CELEBRATE SOMERSETS STRENGTHPAST AND PRESENT!
LINK TO VIDEO OF THE 2025 RACE TAKEN BY SATV LINK TO VIDEO [https://cloud.castus.tv/vod/somerset/video/68de8f527d3de200024cb583?page=HOME&fbclid=IwY2xjawNLkqlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFCR25yQWJ1VWhVS0R2a0FnAR5zJgyHXn3zFtyogetR4kt1v_Nwo9Ao4Txz5QJOxafj1Vjt4Pr22dg-uYiotg_aem_mnSyolhixHyjpeyPOvn1Ew]
LINK TO 2025 RACE PHOTOS LINK TO PHOTOS [https://runsignup.com/Race/Photos/MA/Somerset/ShirleyMayFrance10k]
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Comfort Zone Restaurant, 1525 Riverside Avenue, Somerset, 02726, MA, United States
Shirley May France 10k Road Race
