The Blazin’ Battle Against Brain Cancer

Race Overview

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

• Date: 2026-05-17
• Location: Lisa Ann Circle, Greenville, RI
• Webpage: The Blazin’ Battle Against Brain Cancer
• Event Types: 5k and 10k runs

About Jim Varin

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.

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.

Event Purpose

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.

• Support: Directly support The Rhode Island Brain & Spine Tumor Foundation’s mission.
• Assistance: Provide education, spiritual and financial support.
• Research: Assist those who conduct research in this field.
• Community: Help make a difference in the lives of brain/spine cancer patients and their families.

Race Day Information

Please note - Dogs and strollers are precluded from participating in the event.

• Bib Pick-Up: Sunday, May 17th - 6:30 AM to 7:45 AM at Deerfield Park.
• 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.)
• Check-In: Bib numbers will be assigned at check-in.
• Awards: Top 3 Overall Male & Female for both the 5k & 10k: 1st Place Age Group Award Male & Female for the 5k & 10k.

Age Group Awards

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

Partnership

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