Wilbraham & Monson Academy

57th Bunion Derby 2003

On Tuesday, November 18th the 57th annual Bunion Derby was run at Wilbraham & Monson Academy.
Except for two years in the early 1970’s, the road race has been held every year since 1944. The course is 1.8 miles long, and the usual means of getting around the triangular course is to run. People have also been known to walk or to ride on horseback, skateboard, or bicycle around the course.
The race began as a challenge between the football and soccer teams to prove which players were in the best physical shape. Now various teams challenge one another and groups run representing dormitories as well. Runners are encouraged to wear costumes, and the event is very colorful.
Students and faculty at the school elect a Bunion Derby Mayor who reads a proclamation to open festivities and oversees the running of the race. The Bunion Derby celebrates the end of the fall athletic season.

More than 90 runners competed in the 57th running of the Bunion Derby, a tradition at Wilbraham & Monson Academy since 1944.

Head of School Rodney LaBrecque and Bunion Derby Mayor before the big race

The Finish