James Joyce Ramble organizers are emphasizing that Dedham’s biggest race will draw “some of the most competitive runners in the country,” as it hosts the New England USA Track & Field 10K Championship for the third time.
The race has been honored by a vote of running organizations across the region, said Steve Vaitones, the managing director of the New England association of USA Track & Field, in a new press release.
“We’re pleased that our clubs have chosen to return to the James Joyce Ramble for our New England 10K championship in 2011,” he said. “With the large number of road races on the regional calendar, the Ramble provides a runner-focused event, a unique theme, and a pleasant setting.”
“The Endicott Estate location can’t be beat, the weather is always ideal for racing, and the community supports the runners,” Vaitones added. “And, since a championship is about competition, it’s nice to be at an event that always records some of the fastest times run in the state each year.”
The 28th Ramble will be run on Sunday, May 1, beginning at 11 a.m. at the Endicott Estate.
As the press release notes, “The James Joyce Ramble is the only athletic event in America that has been recognized in the United States Congressional Record for its values and its human rights initiatives over the years.”
Each mile is named for a work by James Joyce, the Irish author who has confounded some readers with his 1922 masterpiece, “Ulysses.” Actors in costume hold staged readings of the works by the side of the course, which winds from the Endicott out to Nobles and back.
This year’s event will also be a part of Dedham 375.
To sign up for the race, visit www.ramble.org. And if you’re interested in volunteering, you can call 781-329-9744, or email staff@ramble.org