Bristol Half Marathon draws 700 runners

https://www.eastbayri.com/bristol/stories/over-700-runners-from-36-states-participate-in-bristol-half-marathon,113884?

On Saturday the Independence Rhode Race hosted over 700 participants at their annual running event in Bristol, with 36 States being represented.

Runners began and completed their journey at Independence Park, touring the patriotic town on foot and taking in the red, white and blue-filled sights.

Fourth of July Committee Chair, Chuck McDonough, participated in the festivities, starting the half marathon. In the half marathon, Matt Somenelli of Sharon, Mass. was the victor of the men’s division with a time of 1:12:32, nearly tying the Men’s record. In the women’s division, Sophie Emond of Berkley, Mass. took first place with a time of 1:25:33, setting a new course record. In the nonbinary field of athletes, Emma Picard of Newport won their division with a time of 3:31:07.

Bristol had 52 residents completing their 13.1 mile run, many for the first time.

In addition to these winners, the following runners stood on the podium in their events and divisions:

• Jack McLoughlin of Cumberland, RI, 2nd Male with a time of 1:17:14
• Richard Finnegan of Woonsocket, RI, 3rd Male with a time of 1:20:14
• Corinne Pereira of Barrington, RI, 2nd Female with a time of 1:28:27
• Shayna Cousineau of Cranston, RI, 3rd Female with a time of 1:28:44
• Elizabeth Petersen of Newport, RI, 2nd in the nonbinary division with a time of 3:47:48
• Joseph Andrade was the top Male Bristol Finisher with a time of 1:38:54
• Jordan Ramos was the top Female Bristol Finisher with a time of 1:44:52
• Top All Male Relay was Saturday Night Special with a time of 1:24:02
• Top All Female Relay was Elena and Nastasja Rittling with a time of 1:32:33
• Top Open Relay team of Daniel Jester and Katharine Walker with a time of 1:29:37

“Our events are all about celebrating the beauty and community of our state, and even with the rain, Bristol was really showing off this weekend,” said Susan Rancourt, co-founder of Rhode Races. “We’re so proud to see participants of all ages and abilities accomplishing their goals and enjoying all that Bristol has to offer when it is showcasing its summer finery. Congratulations to all of our finishers!”

Participants were treated to a post-race festival, featuring music, vendors, a recovery zone thanks to Pappas/OPT Physical Therapy, food and beverages with Pivotal Brewing Company on Wood St hosted the Post-Race party, providing a complimentary beverage to all participants over the age of 21.

Independence Rhode Race occurs in conjunction with Bristol’s Annual 4th of July Celebration, and the course traverses the famous parade route while showcasing the best of Bristol, offering stunning views of the town only available by foot. Participants are treated to free race photos, free post-race massage, tech t-shirts, and finisher medals. The race will return next year on June 23, 2024. Registration is set to open on Aug. 1, 2023.

For more information on Rhode Races, visit www.rhoderaces.com and follow the brand on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.