The Blazin’ Battle Against Brain Cancer

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Join fellow runners on May 17, 2026 for the The Blazin’ Battle Against Brain Cancer. It's a fantastic 10K, 5K featuring a flat and fast course in Greenville.