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The Providence Marathon & Half Marathon features USATF-certified courses that qualify for Boston. This race offers full marathon, half marathon, 5K runs through Rhode Island's vibrant capital city of Providence and features Boston Qualifier courses for its full marathon, half marathon, and 5K races.
This course features scenic downtown landmarks and Providence River views. After your finish, we invite you to celebrate at our rockin' post-race party!
The Course
The course for the Providence Half Marathon winds its way through historic downtown sites and charming neighborhoods before concluding with a loop around Pawtucket. Runners will get stunning views of both Providence and Narragansett Bay during this relatively flat run; all online registrants receive a chipped timed race, chipped timed finishers medal and finisher T-shirt! There are water stations along the course to ensure runners remain hydrated during this eventful journey.
As this race serves as a Boston Marathon qualifier, participants should register early. Registration can be done either via the official website or visiting one of several expos held before race day; some locations include Rhode Island Convention Center and Providence Marriott as well as public libraries and State House.
Registration remains open through Sunday, May 5, for those unable to attend any of the expos; after which, participants will collect their bibs and materials on race day from the start line.
Sheaff worked tirelessly in the months preceding his race to show non-runners in government that these events were more than simply athletic competitions; rather they brought communities together while raising funds for nonprofits, charities, and local businesses that depended on race proceeds as income sources.
Sheaff has witnessed an upswing in signups for in-person races, with three planned on Sunday in Providence – marathon, half-marathon and 5K. These races will differ from traditional ones by featuring staggered starts with rules prohibiting socializing afterward as well as restrictions for vendors or tents used by running clubs.
The race will feature pacers to assist runners with reaching their goals of 3 hours or 3:15, provided by both event organizers and local groups or individuals. Each pacer is experienced runner and happy to answer any questions that might arise during their run.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR TRAINING PLANSThe Sights
The Providence Half Marathon course offers runners beautiful sights to take in along its route, including historic downtown sites, stunning Providence River views and charming neighborhoods in its surrounding city. As a USATF-certified and Boston Qualifier race, it's perfect for first-time half and full marathon runners, those wanting to run for charity as well as those wanting an exciting running experience. Partners for this race include Ronald McDonald House Providence, Aquidneck Land Trust Boys Town New England YMCA Clean Ocean Access with runners creating teams and fund-raising for any charity of their choosing making this race even more fulfilling.
After enjoying both big city culture and small-town charm, participants can head back to the finish line to celebrate with family and friends at a free beer (21+). There will also be an electrifying after party featuring pop duo Karmin who are famous for their hit song ‘Brokenhearted' that captures perfectly the spirit of running and perseverance.
Running 26.2 miles may seem daunting to some runners, but for Todd Gilbert of Rhode Island's University of Rhode Island graduate student with Tetralogy of Fallot heart defect – similar to that which comedian Jimmy Kimmel's son suffers – the Providence Half Marathon will be more than an endurance test.
On Sunday morning at 8 AM from Providence's Downtown district will commence the Rock n' Roll Half Marathon Relay race, where participants will run along an elegant course lined with heavily shaded tree lined streets and two bridge crossings as well as water stops every 2.5 miles. Participants who want a break between legs may opt for the Rock n' Roll Half Marathon Relay option, with legs covering 7.5 miles each way for a total distance of 13.1 miles split over two legs with commemorative medals, Brook's technical participant t-shirts and swag bags included for participation!
The Crowds
The Providence Half Marathon is an annual marathon qualifying race hosted by USATF-certified and USATF-accredited races throughout Rhode Island and further afield such as St Louis Missouri and Tampa Florida. Held along Providence's tree-lined East Bay Bike Path and Narragansett Bay's shores, runners enjoy beautiful panoramic views throughout. Starting and ending near Rhode Island State House.
At first, this race begins relatively flat to help runners establish a pace they can maintain throughout. Gradually however, as runners advance toward Providence's historic district and Roger Williams Park/providence River waterfront/Benefit Street in College Hill. they will encounter increasingly challenging climbs.
At mile eight of the Providence Half Marathon, runners will experience some of its most stunning sights. You may come across landmarks like Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design campuses; as well as taking in breathtaking views of Providence Harbor as you head down South Main Street past India Point Park back towards City Hall Park.
After being postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Providence Marathon will return this year. Race director Susan Rancourt of Rhode Races and Events says she's looking forward to holding it and hopes it will attract visitors. Getting approval “to host this race took much lobbying”, she notes.
Rancourt reported that the marathon has reached or surpassed its maximum capacity of 1,000 participants, forcing her to turn away some people. She believes many runners may come solely for this race but would also like to explore other parts of Pennsylvania while they're there.
Event organizers are encouraging attendees to use public transportation instead of driving during the race, with free shuttles running to both the starting line and from a parking garage to downtown hotels where there will be post-race parties taking place.
The Finish Line
The finish line for both full and half marathon courses are located in Downtown Providence, just steps away from Rhode Island State House. Both races use chip timing technology with runners receiving medals at the finish line. In addition, top three men and women in each age group also receive medals upon completing their respective courses – most courses run alongside Providence River as part of its journey along.
This flat and scenic course has become a favorite among Boston qualifiers and new runners alike. Starting from downtown Providence, runners follow an idyllic course towards East Bay and Barrington before returning via tree-lined bike path back into downtown Providence where they complete either their marathon or half marathon finish line close to Rhode Island State House.
Closing Thoughts
Participants of the Providence Half Marathon will find water stations along their journey, along with cheering spectators to boost energy levels and encourage runners. There will also be a snack station near the end where participants can stop for some food and beverage refreshments. Plus, this race qualifies you for Boston Marathon! The Providence Half Marathon is USATF certified course as well.
This year's event is set for Sunday, May 7th and will kick off with both full marathon and half marathon events beginning at 7:30 am, with runners expected to complete by 2:30 p.m. Streets will remain closed during much of the day; Gaspee Street remains open however from 8 am on Saturday until 6 p.m. on Sunday.
On race day, runners should park at either the Rhode Island Convention Center or Providence Place parking garages for easy access to the starting line. Shuttle buses are also available if necessary.
Once you cross the finish line, come celebrate your achievement at our post race party with some free beer (if of legal age) and live music! There will also be many local vendors present and this festival offers a wonderful way to experience Providence at its best.
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