Rhode Island is the smallest state in the US geographically speaking. However, what it lacks in acreage it makes up for in population as it is the 4th most population dense state in America (1018 people per square mile if your were curious). It’s colonial towns and sandy shores are sure to be pleasing to the eye while you participate in one of the Plantation States best marathons.
Newport Marathon
The Newport Marathon partners with and supports the Ronald McDonald House of Providence, Aquidneck Land Trust, Boys Town of New England, the YMCA, Clean Ocean Access, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center. This race is USATF-certified and a Boston Qualifier. Many runners have commented on the amazing scenery of this race and say the views, alone, make it worth running.
The Course
The Newport Marathon is features mostly rolling hills. If you are an experienced runner, these mild hills shouldn’t be a problem. While the course is a Boston Qualifier, I wouldn’t expect a PR. The course takes runners along the coastline and takes runners around three small loops along the course. Racers reported that their are ample aid stations dotted throughout the race supplied with water and Gu. Learn more about the course here.
Credit: Newport Marathon
Reviews
“What a course! Best I have seen as far as views. I basically agree with other posts about the event, although I think the organization was pretty good overall. Lots of Pizza and BEER at the end of the race, and the traffic along course was no big deal. The shuttle bus system could have been a little better, but overall I would highly recommend this race for Maniacs or 50 Staters. The town of Newport had a lot going on that weekend, so other than sparse parking availability, it is a great place to spend a day before or after the race.”-D.C., Marathonguide.com
“This is the best marathon I’ve run. I’ve run large marathons like Chicago, with lots of spectators, but there are too many runners. This was well organized, the support crews were fantastic, and the fans that were present were enthusiastic. Having a smaller marathon allowed me to enjoy what has to be one of the most scenic runs that you will find. The hills at the end were simply an exclamation point, so that you will never forget this race. The post-race lobster fest was as unique as it was good. You are not going to find a race quite like this anywhere else. Go for it.”-R.K., Marathonguide.com
Providence Marathon & Rhode Races
For the Providence Marathon & Rhode Races, runners are encouraged to create teams or to fund-raise for their favorite charities. This race has proven to be a great resource to raise funds for a variety of companies, organizations, schools, and other charities. This marathon has been ranked 3rd in Runner’s World: Top 10 Small Town Marathons. The Providence Marathon & Rhode Races started off a little rocky but continues to improve every year. Get registered here.
The Course
The Providence Marathon & Rhode Races is both USATF-certified and a Boston Qualifying event. The race takes place on the tree-lined East Bay Bike path so you can run assured that you will be shaded under the beautiful Rhode Island greenery as you enjoy the scenic views all around you. The majority of the course takes place below sea level. It features significant hills for the first and last 8 miles with the middle 10 being fairly benign. Some runners mentioned that water stops were a little too spread out at 2-3 miles apart, so consider bringing your own hydration system.
Credit: Providence Marathon
Reviews
“The course was very scenic, especially the last 8 miles or so. Unfortunately, the scenic parts also meant lots of headwinds! It’s a bit hillier than expected but nothing terrible. It’s a nice mix of bike trails, streets and ocean running that serves well to distract you at the right moments.”-John Eng, Marathonguide.com
“I found that the course had a few hills at the start and end, but nothing too intense. The course was beautiful, with great views of the water and on quiet streets. There were plenty of water stops with Gu as well, the race was very well staffed and started promptly, and while the crowds were very thin for the majority of the race, those that did come out were enthusiastic. A fast course, I would definitely return.”-J.C., Marathonguide.com
Gansett Marathon
This marathon is a fairly small race and has both fall and spring options to choose from. This race is touted as a marathon organized by runners for runners. Before you get amped up to run this race, you actually have to qualify. In order to limit the field to serious runners, race organizers request that you qualify for this marathon and require better than Boston times. If you do manage to qualify, a cash purse will be awarded to the top 3 male and female finishers. Click here for dates and registration info.
The Course
The race is a double loop course ran on asphalt with sections of the course being open to traffic. The course is mostly flat, but does have a couple significant inclines at miles 1, 12, and 23 that you’ll want to be ready for. Water stops are located every couple miles and some stations also have Gu as well. Since this is a qualifier only race, you won’t need to worry about getting stuck behind slower runners.
Credit: MapMyRun
Reviews
“I ran this for the first time. The organization was terrific. This is a small race for runners by runners. The logistics were great, the director was very attentive and at the half and finished they announce every runner with their qualifying times. A great touch. Many volunteers on the course called to runners by name and the other runners were all experienced and very supportive and enthusiastic. A great race!”-K.M., Marathonguide.com
“A beautiful scenic, very slightly rolling course. Stunning ocean views, and homes! Well supported and organized by the best! The start/finish is located perfectly with indoor facilities too. The support staff on and off the course seem to be experienced runners! The post-pasta feed was complimentary and delicious! I urge any experienced runners to support this run you won’t be disappointed. I just barely qualified, but felt good even at the back of the pack! Everyone cheered us on! Plus running with so many well qualified professionals, gave the run a neat ‘vibe’ without any pretentious feel. Everyone there ‘qualified’ and was deserving!”– S.M., Marathonguide.com