Running the Waterfront: RBC Race for the Kids Returns

By Alyssa | WhatsOn local events writer Alyssa picks out timely events, local favourites and useful places to eat, stay and explore.

The sharp, salty breeze whipping off St Helier marina, the rhythmic thud of hundreds of trainers hitting the tarmac, and the electric buzz of a crowd united by a single starting pistol. This is not your average Sunday morning stroll along the coast. It is an explosion of energy where the island’s usually tranquil waterfront transforms into a moving, breathing sea of colourful charity t-shirts, eager families, and weekend athletes. Long before the sun has fully climbed over the bay, the Waterfront Gardens are alive with the sounds of warm-up music, nervous chatter, and the clinking of coffee cups as supporters stake out their prime viewing spots along the railings. The sense of anticipation is infectious, rippling through the early morning air as runners of every age and ability gather to stretch, laugh, and mentally prepare for the course ahead.

As we look toward the RBC Race for the Kids Jersey 2026, Jersey is once again preparing to host one of its most uplifting and highly anticipated sporting highlights. Running directly parallel to the adrenaline-fuelled Supertri weekend—which brings world-class international triathletes to the island—this deeply inclusive community fun run turns the spotlight away from elite competition and firmly onto the sheer joy of mass participation. Raising vital funds for the Jersey Child Care Trust, it offers accessible 2.5k, 5k, and 10k routes. It is an event that proves you do not need to be an Olympian to be part of the island's biggest weekend of sport; you simply need a pair of comfortable shoes and a willingness to get involved.

Sweeping Bay Views and Waterfront Energy

The true magic of this event lies in the route and the wonderfully diverse people traversing it. Rather than a gruelling cross-country slog through muddy trails, the course winds through the flat, incredibly scenic stretches of the St Helier waterfront and its sun-drenched promenades. During the morning, you will spot serious club runners fiercely chasing personal bests on the 10k stretch, gracefully dodging around the luxury superyachts moored in the marina and soaking in the sweeping, panoramic views out towards Elizabeth Castle in the bay.

Meanwhile, the shorter 2.5k and 5k loops are dominated by a completely different pace—laughing toddlers being pushed in buggies, groups of friends walking arm-in-arm, corporate teams in matching neon gear, and a delightfully casual approach to the finish line. The air smells heavily of sea salt, warm pavement, and anticipation, accompanied by a thumping soundtrack of cowbells and applause echoing between the modern apartment blocks and the ancient ocean walls. It is a morning where joy completely outpaces competitive pressure.

A Resounding Display of Local Spirit

The heart of this race beats entirely for the local community, and the human element is palpable from the moment you arrive. The crowd is a brilliant, eclectic mix of visiting sports fans who have travelled over for the broader Supertri festival, and proud islanders turning out in force to champion the Jersey Child Care Trust. The atmosphere is fiercely supportive rather than aggressively competitive.

Dedicated volunteers, many of whom have been out since dawn setting up barriers, line the route with outstretched water cups and endless, beaming encouragement. Spectators crowd the waterfront, waving homemade signs and cheering for complete strangers just as loudly as they do for their own relatives. It is a morning where crossing the finish line feels like a collective, island-wide victory, rather than just a solitary athletic achievement.

Know Before You Go

• Register well in advance: This is a major charity fixture on the late summer calendar. Securing your spot early via the official RBC Race for the Kids registration page is highly recommended to guarantee your race pack and preferred distance.
• Navigate the Supertri crowds: With the massive international triathlon happening across the same weekend, central St Helier will be incredibly busy. Arrive well ahead of the 10:00 start time and plan for alternative parking slightly further out of town, as the waterfront car parks will fill up exceptionally quickly.
• Dress in sensible layers: Early September mornings by the marina can be surprisingly crisp before the sun properly hits the promenades. Bring a light, breathable layer you can easily peel off and hand to a cheering supporter once your blood starts pumping.
• Check the route map: While the Waterfront Gardens act as the central hub, the overlapping 2.5k, 5k, and 10k distances mean you should familiarise yourself with your specific turning points before the starting horn sounds to avoid taking a wrong turn along the promenade.

Make a Weekend of It

Since you are already right in the heart of the action, why not turn a Sunday morning run into a full, indulgent weekend of waterfront exploration? St Helier is packed with superb places to unwind and refuel after earning your medal. If you want to stay right amongst the lively Weighbridge atmosphere, book a room at The Royal Yacht Hotel & Spa, which offers chic, highly central accommodation just a short walk from the starting line.

Once the run is over, you will undoubtedly have worked up a serious appetite. For a hearty post-race recovery lunch, La Taverne on York Street serves incredibly generous portions of traditional French cuisine—their celebrated fillet steak is a fantastic reward for a 10k finish. Alternatively, if you prefer to recount your race times over a relaxed glass of wine and carefully crafted dishes in an elegant setting, the refined but very comfortable La Bastille Bar & Brasserie on Queen Street is an excellent choice for a long, well-deserved afternoon meal.

If you have younger family members still buzzing with energy after the 2.5k walk, take a short stroll over to the New North Quay to explore the Maritime Museum, an interactive deep dive into the island's seafaring history that perfectly rounds off a day on the coast. For those wanting a slightly different cultural detour, the Jersey Museum & Art Gallery by the Weighbridge provides a fascinating look into the island’s heritage, making it an ideal, low-impact afternoon activity to rest your weary legs while still making the absolute most of your time in the capital.

I hope to see you on the start line—whether you are chasing a new personal best or simply walking for a wonderful cause, bring your best cheering voice!