MANCHESTER, Conn. — Manchester Road Race runners will notice a new face at the starting line this year. Dave Smith, the new official starter, is lacing up his sneakers following the passing of Bob Moran, the beloved race icon who previously held the job.
“It’s really Manchester’s finest moment, from the sponsors to the money we give away, to the volunteers, the community,” said Smith.
Smith said he is ready to kick off race day.
“I taught high school for a long time, and so you face 25 teenagers two or three times a day, that’s one thing or you face 11,000 runners once a year," Smith said, "I love doing both.”
The retired teacher and cross-country coach knows he has big shoes to fill. He follows Bob Moran, who passed away in September at 72.
“Bob Moran was a warm, engaging, positive person. He was universally loved. He is now universally missed. I knew him personally. We used to coach against each other,” said Smith.
Moran’s spirit will live on at the starting line, and Smith will bring his own race day history and passion.
“I’ve been running the road race since about high school which was not yesterday, and then I’ve been a volunteer ever since the mid-80s,” said Smith.
Smith knows the work doesn’t stop after race day. He’s in it for the long run.
“I believe in the sport. I believe in the involvement because running becomes a lifestyle. It’s a fitness thing, and so I’m happy to help out. It means a lot,” said Smith.
Bob Moran’s pistol is being donated to the Manchester Historical Society. Smith will use a new gun Thanksgiving morning to kickstart a new road race era.
Angelo Bavaro is an anchor and reporter at FOX61 News. He can be reached at abavaro@fox61.com. Follow him on Facebook and X.
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