Course Announced for Rock ‘n‘ Roll’s New England Debut – Rock ‘n‘ Roll Providence to showcase city’s beauty, historic sites in inaugural race on Sunday, August 7, 2011

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – The Rock ‘n' Roll Marathon Series will make its New England introduction in one of the country's most inviting small cities. The inaugural Rock ‘n' Roll Providence Half-Marathon will take place on Sunday, August 7, 2011 unveiling a course that will truly highlight the city's charm.

The event will offer participants a unique race experience with miles of entertainment along the way. Live, local bands, cheerleaders, and thousands of spectators create a party-like atmosphere and provide motivation for runners and walkers as they push through 13.1 miles.

The inaugural race will start and finish downtown in front of the State Capitol Building on Gaspee Street and travel past many of Providence's major landmarks such as the Roger Williams Memorial and the Athenaeum Library. Runners will get a brief tour of three of the city's major universities: Brown University, the Rhode Island School of Design, and Johnson & Wales University.

The course then winds through the historic East Side, traversing along Swan Point, Blackstone Park, and India Point with beautiful views of the Seekonk River. Scenic water views along the final mile of the course will make for a stunning end to the race as runners head back downtown to the finish line and post-race concert on the State House grounds.

"The course is designed to bring together the natural beauty and historic cultural integrity of Providence," said Shannon Davis, Event Manager. "The surprising and diverse music scene here will also be highlighted by the local bands playing along what we believe is a really beautiful and interesting tour of the city."

Rock ‘n' Roll Providence is the perfect travel location for many in New England, with the start and finish convenient to both the Amtrak station and downtown area hotels. It is a quick 1-hour drive from Boston, 2.5 hours from Portland, Maine and 3-4 hours from New York City.

Runners can get prepared for race day at the Health & Fitness Expo on Friday, August 5 and Saturday, August 6. A runner's ultimate resource, the Expo brings together nearly 100 exhibitors offering the best in gear, nutrition, and training along with legendary running experts and athletes hosting interactive clinics. The event is free and open to the public.

More information, including course maps and registration are available online at www.Competitor.com