Charlie Holder Sr. Memorial 5K

Following the incredible success of last year, we are thrilled to announce the 2nd year of The Charlie Holder Sr. Memorial 5k. This run will begin at 8:30am on Saturday, May 17th. There is a 5k competitive run option as well as a fun walk and virtual component. One step at a time we are working together to help support our community by raising money for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Community Center and the Newport County YMCA Summer Scholarship Fund. Last year the race raised $8,623 for each organization - this year our goal is $10,000!

We will also host a family fun run sprint at the beginning of the race. All youth, please join us at the start line for the fun run sprint! Thank you!

Thanks for helping us remember a great guy who inspired many -  Charlie Holder Sr.

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"I FOUGHT THE FIGHT, I FINISHED THE RACE, I KEPT THE FAITH."

This was the mantra of a Newport Legend, Charlie Holder Sr.

Charlie was born and raised in the Park Holm district of Newport. It was here that he made life long friends and first learned his love for sports. He attended Newport Public Schools and was an outstanding athlete in three sports; basketball, football and golf (captain). After graduation from Rogers in 1963, Charlie joined the U.S. Army where he became a paratrooper with the 82nd airborne division. He loved his country and was proud to serve. 

Charlie returned to Newport to marry his high school sweetheart, Elaine Parkos in 1967. Together, they had three children and 6 grandchildren. Throughout his adult life, Charlie continued to play sports and coached several championship teams at the Portsmouth Abbey School. He played in the city basketball and softball leagues. He played in the over 30 basketball league until he was 51 when he was first diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. In his 40's, Charlie took on a new challenge, his love for running. Although not an ideal sport for a 6'5'' man, he found peace and harmony in running and loved competing against himself.

Please register by April 1st to be guaranteed a t-shirt.

Click here to view the sponsorship letter

Click here to purchase a sponsorship level.

Click here to see the course map.

Bib Pickup Details at the Newport County YMCA

5/16/25 - 3:00pm-6:00pm

5/17/25 (Morning of) - 6:30am-8:00am

Race Details Email & Information

Race Day: Saturday, May 17, 2025

Arrival Time on Race Day: If you still need to pick up your bib - 7:00am | If you picked up your bib on Friday, suggested arrival to park is 7:45am-8:00am.

Race Start Time: 8:30am

Race Location: Newport County YMCA 792 Valley Road Middletown, RI

Parking Area: Please use John Clarke Road, the Valley Road entrance of the YMCA will be closed. Parking will be available at the People's Credit Union Lot as well as Child & Family. (127 & 31 John Clarke Road Middletown, RI). The YMCA lot will be prioritized for Y activities but please note that handicap parking is available.

Reminders: Strollers and dog (with leash and poop bags) are more than welcome!

Restrooms: There will be bathrooms inside the Y available for use.

Post Race: Awards for Overall 1st, 2nd, 3rd will be given at 9:15am. Please stay for the award ceremony as there will be a bib raffle as well with some fabulous prizes!

BIB PICK-UP DETAILS

Dates: Friday, May 16th 3:00pm-6:00pm & Saturday, May 17 6:30am-8:00am

Location: Newport County YMCA Main Lobby (792 Valley Road Middletown, RI)

We are so excited for race day! See you at the start line!