Runners get set, on your mark and go - on Sunday, for the 19^th Annual Corrib Classic 5K Race. The starters pistol will be shot at noon on Lagrange Street at Billings Field.

What is deemed as an annual West Roxbury reunion, is hosted by the Bligh family and the Corrib Charitable Trust Board of Directors. Through the years, the event has raised more than $878,000 for local Parkway charities.

"The Road Race started in 1994 as a vehicle to raise money for the fledging Community Center," explained Frank O'Brien, of the Corrib Trust. "We also wanted to have a neighborhood celebration as a component of the event. Little did we know that approaching our 19th race, we now average over 2,300 runners and over 4,000 people at the post-race celebration at Billings Field."

O'Brien added why he likes the Corrib Road Race, "The great support and effort we get from all of our event volunteers. The reunion-type Parkway feel to the event. The great people on the Race Committee. We work hard but also have a lot of laughs."

The event has grown so much that some original runners, save their running for other days. Bobby V, the man behind the Corrib Pub bars in Brookline, Brighton and West Roxbury, talked about his appreciation for the Corrib Road Race.

"It’s the best day in West Roxbury, I think. It’s become a huge event. We started with 200 to 220 runners. It went from a runners day to a huge family thing. We went from having just the refreshemnts and food, to pony rides and cartoon characters walking around, moonwalks and all that stuff. It’s become more of a family day."

Bobby V said he ran the first 15 Corrib Road Races, "Came in at 6 a.m. set it up with volunteers, then jumped in line and ran, then helped. Now there's too much to do. I kind of miss running it. It was great to come down the finish line on Lagrange Street."

Well, Bobby V, you know this already, but runners can download an application or register online at www.coolrunning.com by clicking on ‘Races/Results-June 3’.  The event web site has comprehensive information on the race, post-race cookout and activities, and volunteer opportunities.

Applications may be also picked up at the Corrib Pub and Restaurant located at 2030 Centre St., West Roxbury. T-shirts are given to the first 500 pre-registered applicants.

The Race is sponsored by The Cooperative Bank and supported by Gormley Funeral Services.