They’re not only here for the beer. Runners and walkers always have a great time at the Ras na hEireann U.S.A. 5 km.

By Cathleen Twardzik

On March 18, the race, Ras na hEireann U.S.A. 5 km. will begin at 11 a.m. in Davis Square. This year marks its 10th anniversary.

On race day, there will be much Irish “craic,” which loosely means fun in Gaelic.

To add to the atmosphere, Irish music will be played on the course.

“The race is open to anybody physically fit enough to run 5k,” said Paul Collyer, Director of Ras na hEireann U.S.A. 5 km.

Irish-owned pubs, all of which are sponsoring post-race parties will be sponsored by Harpoon Brewery.  Many after parties will provide live Irish bands, a t-shirt and finisher medal.

After the race, join the fun at Orleans Bar and Restaurant in Davis Square, P.J. Ryan’s in Teele Square, The Pub in Ball Square, and On The Hill Tavern in Magoun Square, among other venues.

After-party bands will include: Johnny Come Latelies, who will play at The Burren in Davis Square, Dockside Saints, who will play at Sally O’Brien’s in Union Square, and Ronan Quinn, who will play at Olde Magoun’s Saloon in Magoun Square.

Ras na hEireann U.S.A. means the race of Ireland and the United States of America.  It is a celebration of traditions dating back centuries.

This race originated in Ireland and was named in honor of its famous sister race, the Ras na hEireann International Cross Country, which is held in Termonfechin, County Louth, Republic of Ireland, according to the event’s website.

All cash awards will be given out at 1 p.m. after the race at The Burren in Davis Square, and each winner must be present to collect the award, although divisional awards will be mailed out two weeks after the event.

Cash awards will be offered to the top six women and to the top six men, as well as an additional bonus of $100, if either winner is a native of Ireland.  The total cash prize package is $2,350.

One of the most popular awards in this race is the “Sporting Paddy Gaelic Cup,” which will be given to the first place Pub Team, two men or two women. Additional prizes will be given as well.

To receive a quality multi-colored short sleeve tee shirt with Irish theme, finishers medal and great post race party you must dish out $32 entry fee.

For your convenience, pre-race bib and t-shirt pick-ups are available, Monday to Friday at various Marathon Sports, as well as at the Olde Magoun Saloon on St. Patrick’s Day.

However, pick-ups are also possible on March 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Somerville Senior Center TAB Building, which is located at 167 Holland St.

Registration closes on March 16, at 11:59 p.m. PST.

Interested individuals may register and get more information at http://baevents.com/rasnaheireann/.