Fans of the Boothbay Harbor Bed Races have reason to celebrate this week with the announcement that the races are returning. The 2012 bed races scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 17 at 10:30 a.m. will follow an early morning of shopping during the annual Early Bird Sale in downtown Boothbay Harbor.

The race course will once again be run along the length of Howard Street and will include the famed 180 degree turn in the course. In past years, the hairpin turn has often decided the race, with wheels spinning and riders clinging to the headboard in an effort not to be tossed on to the tarmac.

The 2012 races are unsanctioned. The winning team will not receive any points toward the National Confederation of Bed Races standings, but the winning team will receive the golden pillow trophy, and experience the thrill of victory. Other entrants will, of course, understand the agony of defeat.

The rules of the race are similar to past years. Each team is allowed a maximum of four bed pushers, and each bed must carry at least one adult rider for the duration of the race. There is no weight limit on the rider. Each bed must have a headboard and a mattress and sheets and at least one pillow. Teams interested in entering the race are encouraged to call 633-6855 to receive their race numbers and further details. There is no fee to enter.

Entrants to date include Good 'N You Fuel and Service of Boothbay Harbor, McSeagulls Restaurant, The Opera House at Boothbay Harbor, and Under Curragh Tavern. The Opera House and McSeagulls have run past races. Good 'N You and Under Curragh are new to the race field and both are reportedly in training for the race.