Marlborough Road Race Returns To Benefit Local Food Pantries

MARLBOROUGH, MA — A summer road race will return to Marlborough this month with runners, walkers, volunteers and local businesses supporting food pantries in the region.

The Highland City Striders will host the 15th Annual Running with the Wolves 5K & 10K at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, at Kelleher Field in Marlborough. The race is on the Assabet River Rail Trail, with the 10K course crossing into Hudson before returning to Marlborough.

It's the nonprofit running club’s largest annual fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting local charities in Marlborough and Hudson, primarily the Marlborough Community Cupboard and the Hudson Community Food Pantry.

Last year’s race raised more than $19,000 through sponsorships and registrations to support efforts to fight food insecurity, according to organizers.

Walkers are welcome in the 5K, and organizers expect up to 400 runners and walkers this year, with support from more than 60 Highland City Striders volunteers.

The race has become known for its mostly traffic-free route, Wednesday evening schedule and uphill finish. Participants will receive a technical race shirt featuring a neon pink design.

Post-race food and drinks will be provided by local sponsors, including Prospector Bar & Grill, Playa Bowls, Crumbl Cookies, Raising Cane’s, Smoothie King, Lost Shoe Brewing, Clover Road Brewing and other local businesses. Participants age 21 and older will receive a complimentary beer from Lost Shoe Brewing or Clover Road Brewing. Non-alcoholic options, including lemonade from Raising Cane’s and smoothies from Smoothie King, will also be available.

“When I first moved to Marlborough in 2024, Running with the Wolves was one of the first community events I participated in,” said Matt Betten, vice president of the Highland City Striders and race director. “That race introduced me to the Highland City Striders and to so many incredible people in this community. Two years later, it’s an honor to serve as Race Director and help continue a tradition that brings people together—not just to run, but to support our neighbors and fight food insecurity.”

Registration is open. You can find more information and register here.

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