Charbo's Run

On September 2, 1994, Massachusetts State Trooper Mark S. Charbonnier was shot and killed in the line of duty. His senseless murder will remain forever with those who knew him. Mark was special beyond common men, a born leader. He was our guiding light to do the right thing, to fight crime, and stand up to evil. The murder of Mark is a haunting reality that exists for us today and for the rest of our days. 

On March 12, 1995, the family and friends of Trooper Mark S. Charbonnier paid tribute to him by hosting the first annual "Charbo's Run". The first road race drew about 2,000 runners and walkers, which was a tremendous showing that exceeded our expectations. In the 9 years that followed we saw the race grow to as many as 8,000 runners, making it one of the largest road races in Massachusetts and one of the largest Law Enforcement road races in the country. 

The family, friends, and volunteers put a tremendous amount of time and effort into this race and the overwhelming turnout made it all worthwhile. 

On March 28 , 2004, we hosted the 10th and final "Charbo's Run". We announced with heavy hearts that the race would end after 10 very successful years. This was a very difficult decision for our family and friends, but one that needed to be made. We wanted to end the race on our terms with class, dignity and respect. It was the same way Mark led his life. During the 10 years, "Charbo's Run" raised over $500,000 with all proceeds going to the Trooper Mark Charbonnier Scholarship. Funds that were raised went to many perpetual scholarships and countless charitable causes. 

"Charbo's Run" would not have been possible without the support by the residents of Dorchester, Milton and to Florian Hall for hosting the run. With the assistance of loyal sponsors and their generosity, The Trooper Mark Charbonnier Scholarship became a tremendous charitable organization in the City of Boston and The State of Massachusetts. We are proud of what we have been able to do for many deserving people in our community, city, and state. 

The race was started to honor Mark's life through one of his passions, running. It has been 15 years since the last run and we still continue to see people wearing the T-Shirts with the "953" proudly on the back. That number, Mark's State Police cruiser number, became synonymous with Mark's ultimate sacrifice. 

It is a constant reminder of the dangerous job the men and women in blue do every day. As the 25th anniversary of Mark's death approaches, we decided to bring the race back for one more year. On Sunday March 24, 2019, the family and friends of Trooper Mark S. Charbonnier wish to again pay tribute to him in remembrance by hosting the 25th anniversary of "Charbo's Run". We continue to hold Mark in our hearts and are forever grateful for the outpouring of support we have received.

"The brightness, the caring, the humility, the sense of humor all shone through. The respect he had for others lent on air of gentility to someone with awesome daily responsibilities. The integrity of his life, the warmth of his spirit are left to his family, friends and all who knew him - a not insignificant legacy."

Excerpts from  A Professor's Tribute - Professor Kenneth R. Evans and former Dean of New England School of Law.

The Charbo's Run 5 mile course begins on Hallet Street by Florian Hall and turns left onto Gallivan Boulevard to Adams Street down to Centre Street for a turn to the left. The course turns left again on Squantum Street and to yet another left on Granite Avenue. The race returns to Dorchester and Neponset to the race's final turn on Hilltop to Hallet and the Florian Hall Finish Line and post-race festivities.

The Charbo's Run course for participants walking the race begins on Hallet Street by Florian Hall and turns left onto Gallivan Boulevard to Adams Street down to Butler St where the bike path will be used to direct participants along the Neponset trail to Granite Ave. The walk course rejoins the race on Granite Ave turning left onto Hill Top St to the Florian Hall Finish Line and post-race festivities.

*Disclaimer*

The course has been modified for those walking due to a limited road closure time, reducing any inconveniences caused to the surrounding town(s).

The Charbo's Run kids course will take place in Pope John Paul II Park adjacent from Florian Hall and Hallet Street. The course is a complete loop around part of the Neponset Trail path of the park. 

• Strictly no parking on site
• Dept. of Public Works & Heritage Hall Parking Lots will be open to the public
• Ride sharing services are highly recommended  
• Bank of America on Gallivan Blvd will be the designated drop off/pick up location for ride sharing service