Elijah's Race:
Swanzey Covered Bridges Half Marathon
The History and Origin of Elijah's Race
Elijah's Race
This year we are excited to celebrate our 18th annual Elijah's Race. Elijah started this race in 2005 to benefit the students of Monadnock Regional High School . He was an elementary Physical Education teacher in the district and a coach for the track team. He grew up in Swanzey and was an all-star athlete for MRHS. His life was cut short just days prior to his 3rd annual Swanzey Covered Bridges ½ Marathon. Local community members and school booster members took over the race organization. His dream continues with having a race on Labor Day weekend that benefits the students of his alma mater.
Elijah Barrett
Elijah Barrett was an individual well-remarked for his passion within the running community and in the public of Cheshire County. He ran for Monadnock Regional High School; in the 1990s, he was a legacy and record holder at the school. He also continued his career in college, racing for the teams at the University of Rhode Island between 1994-1998. After graduation, he was known for his participation and sponsorships for races across the region. In his time, he owned his own business, Endurance Multisport of Keene, and was a physical education teacher at Hinsdale Elementary School. With this, he passed his radiance and passion not only onto his fellow runners, but also the youth in the community. Unfortunately, his time was cut short, Elijah passed at the age of 31, after a valiant battle against cancer.
This race is continued in honor of Elijah, and in the spirit of growing community, just as he wished for.
