A History of the Falmouth Road Race with Paul Clerici

The Falmouth Public Library welcomes bestselling author Paul Clerici in person on Thursday, August 18th, at 1 p.m., in the Hermann Meeting Room. He will discuss A History of the Falmouth Road Race, the first and only book entirely about the great Cape Cod race, in honor of the 50th running this year.

In a new multimedia presentation, hear about how it all began in a bar; tales of the late great founder Tommy Leonard; how the race grew alongside the running boom; stories and anecdotes of Olympic stars on the roads of Falmouth; and how it continues to inspire.

The award-winning writer takes readers through the colorful journey of this iconic race. With his unique vast array of experiences and knowledge in the sport of running – having covered and written about the sport for over 35 years now, and also having run Falmouth several times – he brings the great race to life through informative, humorous, and enlightening detail that includes stories about every landmark, moment, and portion of the course and its history.

A freelance journalist, photographer, and former newspaper editor, Paul Clerici delivers talks and lectures at libraries, historical societies, bookstores, running clubs; appears at expos, book signings, group meetings; appears on television (NECN, cable stations, etc.), radio (NPR, local and city stations, etc.), and media outlets including “The Boston Globe” and the “Cape Cod Times.” Race director of the Camy 5K Run & David 5K Walk in Walpole, he has competed in nearly every distance from the mile to the marathon – including two triathlons and 43 marathons – and has won numerous age-group and Clydesdale running awards.

He is also the author of “Born to Coach: The Story of Bill Squires,” “Images of Modern America: The Boston Marathon,” “Boston Marathon History by the Mile,” and “History of the Greater Boston Track Club.” Books will be available to purchase and be signed by the author.

Library staff will also be present to add your memories of the Falmouth Road Race over the years to our Digital Archive. Bring an old photo, a newspaper clipping, or other memorabilia to share! We’ll snap a quick photo and take a few notes and you can contribute to the community celebration of the race.

This is a free, in-person lecture that is open to all ages. Registration is required.  Register online using the Falmouth Public Library’s event calendar or by calling the library at 508-457-2555 x7.