Community celebrates 47 years of youth road racing legacy

After nearly five decades of dedicated service, Dave and Judy Gorman are stepping down from their roles overseeing the beloved Brockton Kids Road Races. The couple, who have organized the 2.2-mile races for children aged 14 and under for 47 years, reflected on their journey during a recent government meeting, expressing both pride and nostalgia.

Since the inception of the races, which take place over eight consecutive Saturdays, thousands of children have participated, with many going on to achieve state championship titles. The Gormans have overseen a total of 752 races, missing only one event in that time—on the day of their daughter’s college graduation. “It’s going to be sad. We’re both going to miss it,” Dave Gorman shared, highlighting the joy of watching their grandchildren and second-generation runners take part.

In addition to the road races, the Gormans have been active in fundraising for Brockton High School, contributing to scholarships and supporting local initiatives, including the Jingle Bell Run, which has raised approximately $30,000 annually for 21 years. Their commitment to the community has earned them recognition, including a recent nomination for a volunteer award.

The couple reminisced about the connections they’ve made over the years, noting that many participants have returned to celebrate the races, creating a sense of community akin to an “Irish wake.” They also shared anecdotes about notable runners, including Keith Gill, known as \"Roaring Kitty,\" who gained fame for his role in the GameStop stock surge.

As they prepare to retire from organizing the races, the Gormans expressed their desire to spend more time with family, particularly their grandchildren. “It’s been an honor doing the races in the park and helping so many kids,” Dave said, emphasizing the positive impact the program has had on the community.

The Gormans’ legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of young runners in Brockton, as they leave behind a rich history of community engagement and support for youth athletics.