ROCHESTER, NH
CLICK HERE FOR MAP OF 2026 LOCATION CHANGES
IMPORTANT LOCATION CHANGE FOR THE 12TH ANNUAL FOLEY FREEDOM RUN
Due to paving work at the James W. Foley Community Center, several event locations have changed this year. Please review the information below before arriving on race day.
Where to Check In:
✅ Runner Check-In will take place in the Gymnasium, located at the main entrance of the James W. Foley Community Center. In previous years, check-in was held in the Community Room. This year, all check-in activities have been moved to the Gymnasium.
The beer tent and live band will be located directly outside the Gymnasium.
Parking & Building Access:
⚠️ There is NO parking and NO entry through the back parking lot. Please use the main entrance OR Chestnut Hill Road and go in the back way .
- Free onsite parking at Community Center and Spalding High School
- Additional parking is available downtown and at the former Lilac Mall
- Please allow extra time for arrival and check-in
RACE DAY SCHEDULE:
Early Bib Pick-Up
- Friday, October 16
- 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- James W. Foley Community Center
Race Day
- Day-of Registration & Check-In: 8:00 AM
- All day-of registration will be in paper form with a fee of $35. We recommend registering online today! Payment can be made via Cash, Check, Credit Card and Venmo.
- Diane Foley Book Signing: 8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
- Kids Fun Run: 9:15 AM
- Foley Freedom Run Begins: 10:00 AM
- We're excited to announce a new addition to this year's James W. Foley Freedom Run 5K Awards Ceremony: 10:45 AM. Awards Include:
- All NH race winners by age group will receive a James W. Foley Freedom Mug. Additional prizes include:
- 1st Place Overall (Male & Female): $100 Gift Card to Old Ferry Landing, Portsmouth
- 2nd Place Overall (Male & Female): $50 Gift Card to Cure Restaurant, Portsmouth
The awards ceremony will take place shortly after the race concludes (10:45 AM) once final results have been verified by our timing team.
- Post-Race Celebration: 11 AM - Be sure to stay after the race for an incredible post-run celebration featuring:
- Live music by the Thursday Afternoon Band
- Beer and hard seltzers provided by Bayside Distributing (Participants 21+ must present a valid ID. No exceptions.). In accordance with state and local regulations, the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation must strictly adhere to all liquor licensing requirements. The Rochester Police Department will be on site assisting with compliance and monitoring the beer tent throughout the event.
RUN/WALK LOGISITCS
Start Line & Course Information:
- Please line up at the starting area based on your anticipated pace. Walkers, participants with strollers, and those accompanied by dogs are welcome and should position themselves toward the back of the starting area to allow runners a clear start.
- Course signage is extremely important. Please follow all posted arrows, cones, and volunteer directions throughout the race. If you are unfamiliar with the course, we strongly encourage you to pick up a printed route map at registration or check-in and carry it with you during the event. This will help ensure everyone stays safely on the designated route.
DELICIOUS FOOD & REFRESHMENTS
Our runners and spectators can enjoy a fantastic selection of complimentary treats, including:
Hot coffee from McDonald's
Fresh apples, apple cider, and cider donuts from McKenzie's Farm
Chips and salsa from Margarita's Mexican Restaurant
Ice cream from Strafford Farms
Snacks and treats provided by Walmart
VENDORS & SPONSORS
Local vendors and sponsors will be set up inside the Community Center, and Foley Freedom Run merchandise will be available for purchase, including mugs, sweatshirts, long-sleeve shirts, and more. Cash is preferred, but credit cards and Venmo are accepted.
Whether you're running, walking, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, we look forward to celebrating with you on October 17 as we honor Jim's legacy and support journalist safety and Americans held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad!
See you at the starting line!