Worcester’s hills are about to get another workout.
After more than a decade without a half marathon in the city, a new 13.1-mile race brings runners back to Worcester’s streets next spring, with Polar Park serving as both the starting and finishing line.
The United Way of Central Massachusetts announced Friday that registration has opened for The Mass Half, scheduled for Sunday, April 4, 2027. Organizers hope the event draws thousands of runners, spectators and volunteers while raising money for programs and nonprofit organizations throughout the region.
The race is the United Way’s signature annual fundraiser, combining a major sporting event with the organization’s work supporting education, financial stability, health and community resilience.
“For more than 100 years, United Way of Central Massachusetts has brought people together to address the challenges facing our community,” Tim Garvin, the organization’s president and CEO, said in the announcement. “The Mass Half builds on that tradition in a completely new way.”
The course begins and ends at Polar Park, taking participants through Worcester neighborhoods along the way. Although the city is known for its hills, organizers say the route is being designed to accommodate runners of varying experience levels, from first-time half marathoners to seasoned competitors.
The April date also places the event ahead of the Boston Marathon, offering distance runners an opportunity to incorporate a 13.1-mile race into their spring training schedules.
Beyond the competition itself, organizers envision an event that draws participation from across the community, including businesses, restaurants, nonprofit organizations and residents who may never lace up a pair of running shoes.
Hundreds of volunteers will be needed to assist with race-day operations, while spectators will be encouraged to line the course and support participants.
Runners will also have opportunities to raise money for local causes through a charity bib program benefiting selected United Way nonprofit partners. Details about participating organizations and fundraising arrangements will be announced closer to the race.
Beth Helenius, chair of the United Way’s board of directors and an avid runner, said the event brings together two of her passions.
“The Mass Half is really the perfect collision of two things I love; United Way and running,” Helenius said in the announcement.
She noted that she had already secured bib No. 1 at the organization’s Women’s Initiative Power of the Purse event.
“I’m looking forward to being out there with everyone—running, cheering, volunteering and, most importantly, giving meaning to our miles,” she said.
The event could also provide a springtime boost for Worcester businesses as runners and their supporters visit the city. Organizers hope local restaurants, hotels, retailers and other businesses will participate in race-day activities.
M&T Bank has signed on as the premier sponsor, and additional sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and organizations interested in supporting the event.
“There’s something powerful about an event that brings an entire community together with a shared sense of purpose,” Jeff Carpenter, M&T Bank’s Massachusetts regional president, said in the announcement.
The United Way of Central Massachusetts serves Worcester and 29 surrounding communities, supporting programs focused on youth opportunity, financial security, healthy communities and community resilience.
Garvin said the race is intended to become an annual tradition that extends beyond athletics.
“We have an incredible network of businesses, nonprofits, volunteers, and community leaders who know how to come together and make things happen,” he said in the announcement. “This race gives all of them a chance to be part of something new.”
Registration is open at The Mass Half registration page, where information about volunteer and sponsorship opportunities is also available.
