The 5 Best Road Races in Rhode Island

Many people of all ages love to literally hit the ground running in Rhode Island. Road races are available for all fitness levels, and these include one-mile fun runs and walks as well as longer runs such as a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or full marathon.

Running is an excellent form of fitness that is ideal for burning fat, improving heart health, toning muscles, and more.

More than that, it is a fun way to get outdoors, stay active, and meet wonderful people through training and races. Many road races also support great causes, and you can easily find a few races that are scheduled in Rhode Island that raise awareness and funds for causes that are important to you.

Enter your zip code above to compare rates from top car insurance companies in Rhode Island today!

The 5 Best Road Races in Rhode Island

Each road race in Rhode Island is unique and provides you with a new and wonderful experience.

The people, views, post-event festivities, and more vary significantly. While there are dozens of races that you can participate in throughout the state each year, these are among the most popular or unique options to consider registering for in Rhode Island this year.

#1 – Blackstone Valley Half

Distance Options: 5K, Half-Marathon
Race Swag: Long-sleeve t-shirt, medallion

The Blackstone Valley Half is held in Pawtucket each April, and this is a fun event that takes you through the downtown area on a scenic path near the river. This is a popular local charity race that supports the Pawtucket Soup Kitchen. Chip timing is available through the USATF.

While the course is generally challenging because of the distance, runners will appreciate the lovely views and gentle elevation changes throughout the course. Expect a moderate turnout of several hundred runners or more as well as great support from a network of volunteers at the event.

#2 – Red Island Marathon

Distance Options: Marathon, Half-Marathon
Race Swag: T-shirt, medallion

The Red Island Marathon in Warwick has been a popular event for local runners for years, and increased marketing for the event is bringing even greater numbers of runners to future races.

The course for both the half and full marathon takes you on a peninsula that juts into the Narragansett Bay, providing you with incredible views to savor while you pass over mile after mile.

This is a loop course, so it can be mentally challenging. However, you can easily learn how to navigate up and down this hilly terrain so that you improve with each pass you make. An excellent team of volunteers is available to assist with registration as well as drinks and other needs on the day of the event.

#3 – Newport Marathon

Distance Options: Marathon, Half-Marathon
Race Swag: T-shirts, awards to top finishers, free photos

The Amica Newport Marathon is held in October in Newport each year, and proceeds are donated to a list of approved charities that the Amica insurance company supports. Competitor Magazine notably named this race as having the best swag and for being the best half-marathon in 2016.

This is a challenging route that takes you through hilly city streets as well as residential neighborhoods with mansion homes and rural areas.

With a cap of 4,000 registrants, those who are interested in running in the Newport Marathon should register early. Registration for this event may close several months before the race because of great interest in it.

#4 – Clamdigger 5k

Distance Options: 1K kids fun run, 5K, 5-mile run
Race Swag: T-shirt, chowder, and drinks after the race

The Clamdigger 5K in Westerly is a decades-old tradition that local fitness enthusiasts love, and it is an ideal family event that offers races for all fitness levels and age groups. This race begins at the beach pavilion and takes you through quiet city streets.

There is also an off-road component to the race that adds an extra challenge to your run. Proceeds benefit youth running clubs and activities. After the race, enjoy camaraderie with other race participants while feasting and free chowder and beverages.

#5 – Food Truck 5k, 10k

Distance Options: 5K, 10K, cross-fit kids’ course
Race Swag: T-shirt, awards for top finishers, live music after the event

The Food Truck 5k and 10k supports the Bristol Warren Education Foundation. Both of these courses take you along a beautiful route with natural views on Touisett Point. Kids can participate in a cross-fit challenge course.

After the event, stick around for several hours to enjoy free live music. You can also purchase food, craft beer, and other drinks from several popular food trucks that serve the area. This event has a festival-like atmosphere that makes it ideal for families to enjoy together.

Tips for Traveling

These are only a few of the many popular races that you can participate in over the course of the year in Rhode Island.

While the state is small in size, you may find yourself driving frequently to reach different races. There are several steps that you can take to stay safe while traveling in Rhode Island to reach these events.

– Getting Around Rhode Island During a Race

Many races bring together hundreds or even thousands of people for competition and festivities. Remember that registrants as well as volunteers, vendors, and law enforcement may be on hand to assist with the event.

In addition to increased traffic congestion, races may feature blocked roads and detours. As you might imagine, getting around town before and after these events can be challenging and even dangerous.

Many races have specific details regarding parking availability, road closures, the number of participants expected, and more on their website.

It is wise to learn more about the details for a specific race before you get in the car. Plan out your route ahead of time, and determine the best place to park before you start driving around. This will ensure that you know exactly where you are going, and you can avoid traffic congestion or pedestrian traffic as a result.

– Make Sure You Have the Right Car Insurance

Most people will navigate the roads around races without incident or concern, but some people may have an accident. Remember that you are required to maintain a minimum amount of car insurance in Rhode Island at all times.

These liability insurance requirements include $25,000 for personal injury per person or $50,000 per accident as well as $25,000 for property damage. There are legal penalties for not being properly insured according to state requirements.

It is wise to review and update your coverage as needed before a race. Remember that liability coverage will not pay for your own expenses in an accident.

You will need to purchase upgraded optional coverage, such as collision or comprehensive insurance, to obtain benefits for your own accident-related expenses. Because you never know when an accident will occur, now is the time to update your coverage.

The best way to request quotes and compare car insurance coverage options is to shop online.

You can easily request quotes for similar coverage types and limits online, and you can compare the options for different policies without delay. Ensure that you also review the provider’s financial strength and overall reputation in the market before making your buying decision.

Participating in races can be fun and exciting, but you need to be fully prepared for these events. Comparing coverage is a great way to save money on the auto insurance you need. Because rates can change from time to time, get in the habit of comparing insurance quotes every six months.

Enter your zip code below to find car insurance rates that work with your budget!