The Blazin’ Battle Against Brain Cancer

Event Overview

In Memory of Jim Varin to benefit The RI Brain & Spine Tumor Foundation

Jim Varin was a dedicated firefighter in the city of Providence for 31 years. He always expressed how extremely thankful he was to have a job that he loved so much.

In January of 2022, Jim’s life as he knew it completely changed. He was diagnosed with Glioblastoma, an aggressive and fatal form of brain cancer, at the young age of 52. Due to this diagnosis, Jim would never be able to return to his fire station and perform the job he loved.

Race Purpose

Before his passing, just 13 months later, he talked about wanting to help others who may be affected by Glioblastoma down the road. I assured him that his death would not be in vain and that we would make sure some good came from him being taken from us too soon by such a relentless cancer.

The Blazin’ Battle Against Brain Cancer 5k/10k is not only a way to keep Jim’s memory alive and positively channel the pain so many of us feel in his absence, but most importantly it will fulfill Jim’s desire to help others who are faced with a brain or spine cancer diagnosis.

Supporting a Cause

Your participation in this race will directly support The Rhode Island Brain & Spine Tumor Foundation’s (RIBSTF) mission to provide comprehensive support to those individuals, and families of those diagnosed, with brain or spine tumors and enhance their quality of life by providing education, spiritual and financial support, as well as to assist those who conduct research and wish to study this field.

From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for helping to make a difference in the lives of brain/spine cancer patients and their families. No one should have to go this road alone!

-The Varin Family

Race Date & Location

Date: May 17, 2026

Location: Lisa Ann Circle, Greenville, RI

Additional Information

• Dogs and Strollers: Dogs and strollers are precluded from participating in the event.
• QR Code: PLEASE BRING YOUR QR CODE FOR QUICK CHECK-IN (It can be shown from your mobile device, it does not need to be printed - save a tree.) Bib numbers will be assigned at check-in.

Bib Pickup

Bib Pick up on Sunday, May 17th - 6:30 AM to 7:45 AM at Deerfield Park.

Awards

• Top 3 Overall: Male & Female for both the 5k & 10k
• 1st Place: Age Group Award Male & Female for the 5k & 10k

Age Group Increments

• 19 & under
• 20-29
• 30-39
• 40-49
• 50-59
• 60-64
• 65-69
• 70-74
• 75-79
• 80-84
• 84-90
• 90+

Partner Race

We are excited to be a partner race for the NE 65+ Running Club.

Race Registration

For more information and to register, please visit this link.