It may not be the Olympics, but for runners taking part in the Bedford Rotary Club’s road races, it sure does feel like it.

Runners in the Saturday, May 16, 12K and 5K runs will conclude their trek by entering the track that is surrounded by the stadium-style seating at the Bedford High School football field with a run around the track.

That will be the final portion of the race for a second consecutive year during a race being organized for a 35th consecutive year.

Bill Gere has run the event for since the Rotary Club took over in 1991, and said he expects between 700 and 1,000 participants this time around. Any money raised during the event will go toward the scholarships the group gives out to West High School students looking to attend Saint Anselm College or community college.

“When you come in, you’re running in on your own and there really is’t anyone near you,” said Gere. “When you go around the track you get that extra kick. The runners love it, and that’s the key.”

In addition to the scholarship money raised by the Rotary, individuals and teams can use the race as a platform to earn money for their own causes, finding sponsors on their own.

In one case several years ago, a teacher in Bedford was in need of a liver transplant, and about 300 runners combined to raise about $60,000.

The course is a combination of hills and flat roads that wind through scenic routes in Bedford, and Gere said the 5K in particular is perfect for competitors of all ages and skill levels.

“Often times we have people who come just to cheer on the runners and are shocked to find out their kids have signed them up to race,” said Gere. “With the 5K, you can run it or walk it, so anyone can participate.”

Several running clubs will be taking part in the 12K race, as it was designated as one of seven races that count in the standings for competitors in the group.

Gere said the number of participants in the race depends heavily on the weather on the day of the event.

For more information on the road races, log onto www.rotarybedfordnh.com.