The Holder family has announced the third annual Charlie Holder, Sr. Memorial 5K and 10K charity race will be held Saturday, May 9, with both races starting and finishing at the Newport County YMCA, 792 Valley Road.
New this year is a 10K option, featuring a course with views of three beaches and Hanging Rock, running past the Esplanade and Second and Third Beaches. The 5K follows a course around Tuckerman Avenue and Easton’s Point. The event also includes a virtual option, and prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each race.
The race, presented by BRS Building Company, honors Charlie Holder, Sr., who passed away Aug. 6, 2023. Net proceeds benefit the Newport County YMCA and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center. Last year, each organization received $10,000. This year’s goal is $15,000 for each.
“We never dreamed we’d be back for a third year, but our community has really supported this event,” said Elaine Holder. “It warms my heart to see the support of all who keep Charlie’s memory alive.”
Newport Mayor Charlie Holder, Jr., who chairs the City Council, said his father “was a runner and I know he would be so proud of this race and how it has grown. It’s a real community event and we’re happy to again support two great local organizations: the Y and the MLK.”
The YMCA plans to use its share to fund summer camp scholarships, while the MLK Center will direct its donation toward its own summer camp scholarship program.
Early bird pricing — $45 for the 10K and $33 for the 5K — is in effect through April 1. Participants who register by that date will also receive a race t-shirt.
To register, sponsor or volunteer, visit runsignup.com/Race/RI/Middletown/CharlieHolderSrMemorial5K.