Road Race at Gillette and DA Morrissey Supporting Anti-Drunk Driving Campaign

The Finish at the 50 road race that ends at midfield at Gillette Stadium, July 3, is including the HERO Campaign among the charities it supports this year, according to Norfolk DA Michael W. Morrissey.

The 5K, 10K and Kid’s Run are part of an all-day event starting at noon with children’s activities around Patriot Place and the stadium and ending with fireworks at 9 p.m. The Kid’s Run, which also ends at the 50-yard line, begins at 3 p.m.; the adult races start at 6 p.m.

“When runners register online, they can choose from a small list of charities that will benefit from their registration fees,” District Attorney Morrissey said. “I will be there with the parents of Ensign John R. Elliott, for whom the Foundation that drives the HERO Campaign is named.”

In 2000 Ensign John Elliott, a graduate of the Naval Academy, was struck and killed by a drunken driver on his way home for his mother’s birthday. The driver had been arrested on DUI charges and released only to get back in the car drunk, killing himself and John.

The name of the campaign derives from an honor John received at Annapolis, having been elected by his peers as a Human Education Resource Officer (HERO) to mentor other cadets. John was selected as the outstanding HERO in his graduating class.

The HERO Campaign, which has a partnership with the Kraft Organization and the Patriots, is dedicated to saving lives on the roads by encouraging people to “Be a HERO, be a designated driver,” and working with restaurants and organizations like the Patriots to encourage people to be designated drivers.

“I have partnered with Gillette Stadium and Patriot Place to support the HERO Campaign, and I would invite anyone in Norfolk County or beyond to take part in this event and, if you choose to run, consider the HERO Campaign when you register,” District Attorney Morrissey said.

“July 3 is a good time to honor a hero, and it is always a good time to prevent drunk driving,” District Attorney Morrissey said.

Edtor's Note: Press release from DA Michael Morrissey.