The Providence Journal / Kris Craig
Runners start the 2nd annual Rock 'n Roll Providence Half Marathon Sunday on Gaspee Street.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Just before he crossed the finish line, Christian Hesch dropped to the street near the Providence Place mall and did a pushup.
"Piece of cake," shouted an announcer as Hesch -- a 33-year-old full-time runner from Hollywood, Calif. -- picked up a medal and a $1,000 prize for finishing first in the Rock 'n' Roll Providence Half Marathon.
His time? 1:07:05.
About 5,000 runners participated in the race, which featured more than 20 bands stationed along the 13.1-mile route. Thousands more came to watch.
Stephanie Pezzullo, who grew up in Foster and Glocester but now lives in Charlotte, N.C., finished first in the women's division with a time of 1:15:17.
"The music helps," Pezzullo said. "It gives you a little boost."