Shirley May France 10k Road Race

A Race with a Mission: Supporting Local

Proudly presented by BankFive, the Shirley May France 10K Road Race is more than a race. It’s a celebration of our community, our waterfront and the local businesses that make Somerset special.

Our 2026 charity of choice is The Cure Starts Now – Somerset Chapter, led by Ken and Michelle Oehmen in honor of their daughter, Selina. The Cure Starts Now raises funds for pediatric brain cancer research, and we are proud to support a cause that has had such a profound impact on our community.

The race route showcases some of Somerset’s best scenery, taking runners through the community and along the waterfront with views of the Taunton River. The course combines neighborhood streets, local landmarks and scenic stretches near the water, giving runners a true feel for Somerset as they make their way to the finish.

Nearby the finish line, participants and spectators are also just steps from some of Somerset’s favorite local businesses, including:

• Comfort Zone Bar & Grille
• BankFive
• St. Anne’s Credit Union
• Somerset Creamery
• Auclair’s Market
• Fiesta Mexican Restaurant

Whether you’re running, walking, cheering or simply enjoying the day, you’re helping us celebrate Somerset’s waterfront, local businesses, community spirit and hometown pride.

Lace up, show up and celebrate Somerset’s strength, past and present!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Shirley May France 10K?

The 2026 Shirley May France 10K will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026. The races begin at 5:00 PM.

Where does the race start and finish?

The race will start and finish near The Comfort Zone Bar & Grille on Riverside Avenue in Somerset, Massachusetts.

What events are offered?

Participants can choose from:

10K
5K
1-Mile Family Walk/Run

Where should I park?

Participant and spectator shuttle parking will be available at Somerset Middle School. Use the parking lots located on Brayton Avenue. Shuttle service will be provided between the parking area and the race area.

What time do the shuttles run?

Pre-race shuttle service will begin at approximately 3:45 PM, with continuous service until the final pre-race shuttle at approximately 4:45 PM.

Return shuttles will begin around 5:30 PM and continue through 8:00 PM.

When and where is Bib Pickup?

Bib pickup will be on Friday, September 18th from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Auclair's Market in Somerset. 

Will Riverside Avenue be closed?

Yes. For the safety of runners, volunteers and spectators, portions of the race route will be closed to traffic during the event and will begin reopening during the race. Please plan for temporary traffic restrictions and allow extra time when traveling in the area.

Can I register on race day?

Yes. Race-day registration will be available, space permitting. A QR code will also be available at the registration area for online registration.

If paying with cash, exact change is appreciated. Any amount paid above the registration fee will be donated to this year's charity.

Is there a family event?

Yes! We offer a 1-Mile Family Walk/Run for families and community members who would like to participate without completing the 5K or 10K.

Who does the race benefit?

The Shirley May France race is a community fundraiser presented by the Somerset Economic Development Committee, with a portion of the proceeds supporting this year's charitable cause.

Who was Shirley May France?

Shirley May France was a Somerset native and record-setting long-distance swimmer who gained national attention for her extraordinary accomplishments and determination. The race is held in her honor and celebrates both her legacy and the Somerset community.

Will there be awards?

Yes. Race awards are scheduled to begin at approximately 6:00 PM. Awards need to be picked up by 8:00 PM on the day of the race. Unclaimed awards will be returned to the Race Committee.

Will I receive a finisher medal?

Yes. All 10K and 5K finishers will receive a custom finisher medal from Stride Awards after crossing the finish line.

Is there anything happening after the race?

Yes! Participants, families and spectators are invited to continue the evening at the post-race celebration at The Comfort Zone Bar & Grille beginning around 6:00 PM.

Are there any specials for runners?

Yes. Participants can show their race bib at Fiesta Mexican Restaurant to receive 50% off as part of race-day festivities.

Can I volunteer?

Yes! Volunteers are an important part of making the event possible. Race-day volunteers are generally needed from approximately 3:30–7:00 PM, and volunteer hours may qualify for community service credit.

You will receive a complimentary 2027 Race Registration after you complete your volunteer assignment.

There are also opportunities to help with pre-race activities and material distribution.

Link to register as a volunteer

Can students volunteer?

Yes. Students are welcome to volunteer, and community service hours are available for eligible volunteer positions. 

How can I become a sponsor?

Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to support the race through sponsorship. Sponsorship opportunities are available at several levels. Please contact the race committee for current sponsorship information.

How do I apply to be a vendor?

Interested in joining us as a vendor on race day? Please complete our Vendor Application Form here. Vendor space is limited, and submission of the form does not guarantee acceptance. Selected vendors will be contacted with additional details.

Who organizes the race?

The event is presented by the Somerset Economic Development Committee with the support of the Town of Somerset, local departments, community organizations, sponsors and volunteers.

What happens if I have another question?

Please contact the Shirley May France Race Committee through the contact information provided on this website, and a member of the committee will be happy to help.

Race-day parking will be available at Somerset Middle School with complimentary shuttle service to and from the race start/finish at Comfort Zone Grille & Bar.

Please allow extra time for parking, shuttle transportation and check-in before the 5:00 PM start. Road closures will be in effect in the race area, so participants and spectators are encouraged to arrive early.

Please do not rely on parking immediately surrounding the start/finish area.

Shuttle Service

Shuttle service from the Shuttle Lots begins at 3:45 PM from the Somerset Middle School (use parking lots off Brayton Avenue entrance)

Final Shuttle departs from the Start/Finish Line at 8:00 PM from the BankFive parking lot.

Shuttle Stop - Middle School Parking Lot

Shuttle Stop - Start/Finish Line

 

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 athlete—she 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.The Shirley May France Race is more than a road race—it'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. 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️🌊🇺🇸

 

 

Enjoy a scenic course through Somerset featuring waterfront views, neighborhood streets and some of the town’s most recognizable scenery.

1 Mile Family Fun Walk: T-Shirt

5k Road Race: T-Shirt

10k Road Race: T-Shirt