Rock 'n' Roll marathon returns to RI

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - The sun was shining, the music was pumping, and over 5,000 runners laced up to take on the 13.1 mile course through the streets of Providence.

It was the second annual Providence Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon.

• Photos: 2nd Annual Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon

Mayor Angel Taveras was very happy to sound the horn and fire the starting gun to get the race underway.

"It is great to have thousands of people here enjoying our city and it's a great event we hope they love the city like we all do and have many years of the race in the city," said Mayor Taveras.

The city of Providence is being shown off to the country once again and the Mayor could not be happier about it.

"People who are coming in are having a great time. This is a good day today."

The 13.1 mile race made its way through the streets of Providence.

National recording artist Karmin who sings the number one hit “Broken Hearted” was the headlining act to keep the racers pumped.

They were thrilled to be part of the race.

"It's an honor. We're just excited to be back on the east coast. I'm excited they didn't ask us to run."

Racers even showed up with their own cheerleaders

But crossing the finish line first for the men was Christian Hesch, of Hollywood, California. Hesch’s time was one hour and seven minutes.

He loved seeing Providence this way, "Its was just great to experience Providence."

The women’s winner was Stephanie Pezzullo with a time of one hour and 15 minutes. Pezzullo is a top runner and athlete.

She is also a Rhode Island native who now lives in Charlotte, North Carolina and hopes to be part of the 2016 Women’s Olympic soccer team. 

"I grew up in Rhode Island and running the race through Providence was first time experience for me."

Even The Rhode Show's own Michaela Johnson gave the course a try for the second year in a row.

Race organizers could not have asked for a better day for the crowds and runners.

The medals were handed out and then it was time to dance if you still could stand on your feet.

If you want more information about the race and see what other cities are hosting the event head to the Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon's website.