Charlie Holder Sr. Memorial 5K

This 5k race is dedicated in memory of Charlie Holder Sr. This run will begin at 8:30am on Saturday, May 11th. There is a 5k competitive run option as well as a fun walk and virtual component. One step at a time we are working together to help support our community by raising money for the Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Center and the Newport County YMCA Summer Scholarship Fund.

"I FOUGHT THE FIGHT, I FINISHED THE RACE, I KEPT THE FAITH." This was the mantra of a Newport Legend, Charlie Holder Sr. Charlie was born and raised in the Park Holm district of Newport. It was here that he made life long friends and first learned his love for sports. He attended Newport Public Schools and was an outstanding athlete in three sports; basketball, football and golf (captain). After graduation from Rogers in 1963, Charlie joined the U.S. Army where he became a paratrooper with the 82nd airborne division. He loved his country and was proud to serve. Charlie returned to Newport to marry his high school sweetheart, Elaine Parkos in 1967. Together, they had three children and 6 grandchildren. Throughout his adult life, Charlie continued to play sports and coached several championship teams at the Portsmouth Abbey School. He played in the city basketball and softball leagues. He played in the over 30 basketball league until he was 51 when he was first diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. In his 40's, Charlie took on a new challenge, his love for running. Although not an ideal sport for a 6'5'' man, he found peace and harmony in running and loved competing against himself. Charlie's family wants to honor this great legend and will hold the first annual Charlie Holder Sr. Memorial 5k on May 11th. Please register by April 1st to be guaranteed a t-shirt. Click here if you are interested in available sponsorship opportunities.