RACE AROUND THE BLOCK
When it comes to vacations or days ‘off’ there are as many varieties as there are types of people. And some of us simply prefer to be active and productive during our down time. For those people, a race could be just the thing to get those competitive juices flowing while making memories! And Block Island has a race to fit every personality.
FOR RUNNERS
One of the most scenic races the Island offers is the Shad Bloom Run, which takes place at 1pm on Saturday, May 14th (weather date, May 15th). This 10k race takes you through a variety of terrain, from road, to trail, with spring Island views along the way. For a very reasonable $25, you’re sure to have a memorable day! Sign up here
Another option for the long-distance runner is the Annual Block Island Half Marathon, held on October 9th this year. It begins and ends at Fred Benson Pavilion, and takes you through beach dunes, the Great Salt Pond, to the North Point Light House, where you turn back and run the west side of the Island, with gorgeous views of the Atlantic to inspire you to the end. There is a medal for all finishers, and a t-shirt if you pre-register.
FOR SAILORS
If sailing is more your speed, consider the 2022 Off Soundings Race, this June 10th and 11th. This traditional race started in the spring of 1935. Day 1 begins in Watch Hill and ends in Block Island, while day 2 races will take place around Block Island. The rendezvous will be hosted by Champlin’s Marina, so even if you’re not a sailor, you can take in the sights. If you’re ready to sail, sign up here by May 25th.
Of course when it comes to regattas, we have to mention Block Island Race Week, which is a biennial event. Last year’s regatta was fabulous and we are looking forward to all the sights, sounds and excitement of next year’s event, from June 19-23, 2023!
FOR SWIMMERS
Block Island is an Island after all, so swimming is a natural fit. The Great Salt Pond Swim takes place June 30th at 11 am, and you can even sign up day-of. This one-mile race is considered good for open-water-swimming beginners, since it is in a sheltered spot with very little chop, and the course is a straight line marked by buoys. Your race fee of $60 will go to a good cause – to help protect The Great Salt Pond, one of Block Island’s iconic spaces!
FOR THOSE WHO DO IT ALL
If you’re a triple threat, you’ll want to try the Block Island Triathlon on August 6th, at 9am. It begins with a ¼ mile open swim, followed by a 12 mile bike ride, and finishing with a 4 mile run on Crescent Beach. There’s a special 6am ferry the day of the race. Don’t forget to buy a ticket for your bike!
Whatever race you choose, we hope you relish that sense of accomplishment at the end… and Sail Away
Photo Credits: @rememberthattimewhen | @emily_clavette | Stephen R Cloutier @blockislandsteve | @jmcstearns | @ehashbrown
