On The Rhode: Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Time for some running and some rocking. The Rhode Show is "On The Rhode" on Friday, August 17 for Providence's annual Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon!

More than 5,000 runners from 47 states and 10 countries will lace up their sneakers to take part in the 13.1-mile trek through the streets of historic Providence, and it's all for a great cause.

Runners will be motivated not only by cheering fans, but also by various local musical acts performing along the route. Some of the performers include:

• The Tim Charron Band
• The Andersons
• Air Traffic Controller
• The Eversea
• 25 Pearl
• And many more!

Also, Rhode Show regulars, "Amazing Race" alums and local police officers Louie Stravato and Mike Naylor will be entering the race for the second time.

The largest half marathon in New England both kicks off and finishes downtown, near the State Capitol building. Runners will pass many scenic landmarks, such as the Roger Williams Memorial and the Athenaeum Library.

• Click here to view a full map of the race

There are five charities taking part in the event. Different causes have raised a total of more than $268 million through the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon series since its inception.

One of the events is the American Cancer Society , being represented by Team DetermiNation. Nationally, the team has raised over $20,000 so far, and the local team is looking to continue that success. The four ladies are known as Team Ohana, or "family" in Hawaiian.

"I think that throughout our lives we've always been each others' biggest support system," said participant Christina. "To have them alongside in a huge challenge for us, we've never really been, you know, big runners in our lives, but to have something like KJ's dad and our friend Ashley, something so near and dear to our hearts, that having a group is the only way I'd want to run this race."

You don't have to be a strong runner to participate, many choose to split the distance in the two-person relay by taking on either a 5 or 8-mile leg.

Regardless of your skill level, all participants are invited to enjoy a post-race festival and concert on the State House lawn, headlined by Karmin, whose song "Brokenhearted" is currently in the top 20 of Billboard's Hot 100 list.

Registration is still open for the race, and that, along with more information can be found at Competitor.com .