Get ready for the 5th annual Cox Providence Rhode Races on May 11th and 12th! On that Saturday, the Kids Race and 5K will take place at Roger Williams Park, and on Sunday, the Cox Sports Marathon and United Healthcare Half Marathon will begin and end downtown.

The marathon course takes runners through historic urban neighborhoods to the scenic East Bay bike path in Barrington. The half marathon course also begins downtown, taking runners along the Providence River to India Point Park before heading down tree-lined Blackstone Boulevard towards Pawtucket. Last year’s races attracted more than 6,000 participants, making it one of the fastest growing races in the northeast. Both courses are USATF certified, and the marathon is a 2014 Boston Marathon Qualifier.

Before the big races, check out the Health & Wellness Expo at the Omni Hotel Ballroom. Runners should stop by to register or pick up race packets and bibs, and everyone can check out great deals on running gear and apparel. The Expo will be open on Friday, May 10th from 1-7 PM, and on Saturday, May 11th from 11 AM to 5 PM.

For more information, visit rhoderaces.com. To support victims of the recent attack at the Boston Marathon, Cox Providence Rhode Races organizers encourage you to donate to The One Fund Boston.