Media Reviews

Kerrymen Pub Race is a welcome return for runners
Maine Sunday Telegram 3-7-1999 

Don't let the snow fool you; spring is near. You can tell by the purple race applications for the L.L. Bean 10-K- on the Fourth of July! - that popped up, like crocuses, in the mail this week. And by the advent of spring races and St. Patrick's Day races. For example, next Sunday's Kerrymen Pub 4 miler.  This race has a long history, from 1982-92, after which it saw a hiatus. It will return with the old holiday joie de vivre but also a new spirit: 

The motivation for its rebirth is the Kerry family's wish to honor the memory of Mary Kerry Libby, who died of cancer in 1997. And in her name, to raise money to help fight the disease.  So the noon race will be followed by the 2.5 mile “Mary's Walk” on a route she walked daily. Pledges are encouraged for both events.  Proceeds will go the Maine Cancer Research and Education Foundation, and a portion will be donated to Bryan's Fund, established to help a Sanford runner, Bryan Kuprewicz, and his family as Kuprewicz battles cancer.  Dave Kerry emphasized that the money the race takes in is going to the charities, not for race costs. 

The race - on a flat course slightly improved from the old favorite that regularly saw 300-plus runners, and once 500 - begins at the pub at 512 Main St. in Saco.

The course remains mostly flat, said Mary's brother Richard, using the first-mile hill in the St, Peter's 4-miler (up the Eastern Prom) for comparison. “There's nothing like that,” he said. Kuprewicz will attend the race, which is coming together nicely, said Croteau, noting the abundance of volunteers. 

“Lots of Saco people cared a lot for Mary Kerry, and it's a pleasure and honor to work the event.” He would like 500 participants.  Croteau also had some news on Kuprewicz, who underwent cancer treatment a couple of months ago; “His spirit's incredible. Bryan is walking every day and eating a ton, trying to gain back weight. He's in the pool and doing some water running."  “His long-term goal is to be in (the) Boston (Marathon) 2000. I'm sure that if he does run in 2000, a lot of friends will run it with him in celebration.”  

For information on the race, call 284-4446 or 781-3134....