On Sunday, August 17, MetroWest-based non-profit SMILE Mass proudly joined the iconic Falmouth Road Race with a team of 18 dedicated athletes, including two inspiring duo teams, helping raise more than $40,000 to support families living with disabilities. With approximately 11,000 runners, 75,000 spectators, and temperatures in the mid-80s, the race day was filled with unforgettable moments of resilience, determination, and community spirit.
Duo Teams Shine
One of the biggest highlights came from duo team Pat Benson and Nicholas Diomede, who were interviewed live on the jumbotron prior to the start of the event. Pat lightheartedly remarked, “Nicholas loves the hills. I hate the hills.” Nicholas, who is non-verbal, responded with laughter and snapping — a moment that drew smiles from the crowd. The duo went on to win the men’s duo event with a remarkable time of 45:43 — under 7 minutes per mile — finishing more than two minutes ahead of the next closest team. Their feat underscored the incredible strength and teamwork needed to compete while pushing a running chair.
The SMILE Mass team was also represented by Board Member Michael Gray pushing Club SMILE Mass member Emma
O’Neill, further showcasing the organization’s mission of inclusion and accessibility.
A Legacy of Inclusion
SMILE Mass President and Co-founder Lotte Diomede and her son Nicholas were among the first duo teams ever to compete in the Falmouth Road Race more than a dozen years ago. Together they have participated in each race as a duo. This year, Lotte turned the reins over to Benson while she competed solo, marking a new milestone in the organization’s long legacy of inclusion at the event.
The 2025 SMILE Mass Team
The 2025 team included: President & Co-founder Lotte Diomede, Nicholas Diomede, Michael Gray, Pat Benson, Emma O’Neill, Mercedes Beyna, Jessica Blanchette, Caitlyn Brown, Jessee Clements, SMILE Mass Coach Eliza Duddy, Aisling Flanagan Hickey, Meg Foley, Larry James, Brenna Katz, Stephen Kuhn, Juliana McCarthy, Matthew McGue, Brittany Moore and Shannon Murphy.
Each athlete exceeded their fundraising goal, fueling SMILE Mass’s mission to provide education, recreation, and vacation experiences for families raising children and adults with disabilities. Donations to support the team’s efforts will continue to be accepted until September 30, 2025 at www.smilemass.org.
Looking Ahead: Join the 2026 Team
SMILE Mass is already forming its 2026 Falmouth Road Race Team. Interested athletes can apply by completing the form at 2026 SMILE Mass Falmouth Team.
Charity runners must commit to raising a minimum of $1,500 and will receive:
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An official SMILE Mass running shirt
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Pre-event training tips
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A personalized fundraising page
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Transportation to the starting line
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Return transportation to the team hotel in Wareham
About SMILE Mass
SMILE Mass (Small Miracles in Life Exist) helps families raising children and adults with disabilities live happy, healthy lives through education, recreation, and vacation experiences. From Club SMILE Mass’s adapted fitness and social programs to its accessible vacation homes and equipment loaner program, SMILE Mass is committed to creating a more inclusive world where everyone can thrive.
For press inquiries, please contact:
Todd Civin
Communications Director, SMILE Mass
Phone: 978-502-1453
Email: Todd@smilemass.org
MassBay Community College 
MetroWest Chamber of Commerce