James Joyce Ramble Organizer Preparing for Another Strong Year

Runners and literary fanatics in Dedham may notice one big change to this year's James Joyce Ramble road race. 

Instead of reading from a variety of the famous Irish author's works, volunteers will be reading solely from Joyce's "Dubliners" along the 10K race route. 

"This year we're just doing Dubliners to celebrate the 100th publication," said Martin Hanley, organizer of the James Joyce Ramble, set to kick of on Sunday morning, April 27. 

And while the event is just a few days away, Hanley said that volunteers can still sign up to lend a hand. Those interested in helping should email jjramble@gmail.com. 

"At the end of the day, we tend to be very tired, wary-eyed bunch of people," he said. "We're looking for fresh blood, anyone looking for sports management experience." 

While in most years the Ramble takes place two weeks after the Boston Marathon, there will only be a week of time between the two races this year. 

"We've been living in the shadow of the [Boston] Marathon for 30 years, and we've been able to build on that," Hanley said. "We're going to end the month of April with an event we spend as much time and effort on [as the marathon]. It's going to be quite a show. If people want to see some of the fastest runners in America over 40, this is the place to be."

And following suit with the Boston Marathon, Hanley said security will be tight but at the same time not overstressed. 

"We have extra police and we're trying to do it somewhat softer than last year, but with the same measures," he said. "Due diligence is our standard operating procedure. We don't spare any expense. We're doing everything that could conceivably be done. Everything seems to be in good shape."

For more information, visit www.ramble.org or follow the Ramble on Facebook and Twitter.