RACE GUIDE
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2024
RUNNING TOGETHER: EMBRACING 23 YEARS OF BALTIMORE
For 23 years, the Baltimore Running Festival and the vibrant streets of Charm city have formed an unlikely but enduring partnership. At first glance, these two might seem like an unusual match, but a closer look reveals that the City of Baltimore and the runners who embrace the Baltimore Running Festival share much in common.
When someone mentions BALTIMORE, a range of descriptors come to mind: resilient, hardworking, and steadfast. Similarly, the term DISTANCE RUNNER often evokes the same qualities.
Each fall, Baltimore graciously opens its streets for a few hours, with the community rolling out the welcome mat. Cheers from stoops and sidewalks echo across all 26.2 miles of the course. In return, runners push their limits, navigating through the city’s eclectic neighborhoods, scaling hills, and traversing cobblestone streets.
We cherish this tradition and are thrilled to welcome you to the 24th edition of the Baltimore Running Festival. Just as Baltimore embraces diversity, so does the Running Festival. From the first time participants or experienced runners tackling the marathon, to your local plumber and postman taking on the CareFirst Blue Cross BlueShield
half-marathon, and participants from Kennedy Krieger, Athletes Serving Athletes, and the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center transforming personal challenges into triumphs in the 5K or Pandora 10K, the event truly celebrates inclusivity. The race’s motto, ‘Running Together,’ will come alive on October 19, and we can’t wait!
There’s no day in Charm City quite like marathon day. Runners, give it your all. Citizens, cheer with fervor. Fans, immerse yourself in all that makes Baltimore exceptional and enjoy the race day atmosphere. Your support helps the Baltimore Running Festival continue its mission of raising over $15 million for local charities and generating more than $450 million in economic impact over the last twenty-three years.
Let’s make this year’s event unforgettable!
LEE CORRIGAN President, Corrigan Sports Enterprises Baltimore Running Festival Executive Director
Even more, we offer some of the highest deposit rates in the country and our checking accounts come with access to VIP perks at CFG Bank Arena - for you and your business.
2024 SCHEDULE
OF
EVENTS
HEALTH AND FITNESS EXPO
Baltimore Convention Center Hall A
(Entrance at corner of Charles & Pratt Streets)
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18: 11 AM - 8 PM
• Packet pick-up for all races
• Buy official Running Festival merchandise
• Visit vendor booths
• Free and open to the general public
RACE DAY- SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
No registration or packet pick-up on race day
7:30 AM Start of the 5K
(Inner Harbor; Light & Pratt Streets)
7:55 AM Wheelchair Division start, Baltimore Marathon (Across from Pickles Pub)
8:00 AM Open division start of the Baltimore Marathon and Pandora 10K (Across from Pickles Pub)
9:45 AM Start of the CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Half-Marathon (Calvert & Pratt Streets)
10:00 AM 10K and 5K Awards (Band Stage, west of Visitor Center)
10:20 AM-2 PM Runners finish the Baltimore Marathon, CareFirst Half-Marathon
12:00 PM Baltimore Marathon, CareFirst Half-Marathon Awards Ceremony
(Band Stage, west of Visitor Center)
All races finish on E. Pratt Street near Transamerica Building
CELEBRATION VILLAGE
Inner Harbor
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19, 7:45 AM - 2 PM
LIVE MUSIC THROUGHOUT THE DAY
• Official running merchandise available
• Family Reunion Zone- meet up with family and friends after the race
• Food & drink available
• Fun for the whole family
2024 Baltimore Running Festival Thank You List
Brandon Scott
Mayor of Baltimore
Michelle Abbott-Cole
Department of Transportation/Permits
Dr. Eric Almli
MedStar Sports Medicine/BRF Medical Director
Linzy Jackson
Baltimore City Hall
Annie Applegarth
Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts
Luther Booze
Department of Transportation
BPD Aviation, Bomb, K-9 and SWAT Units
Terry Chenoweth
Department of Transportation
Kathy Dominick
Department of Transportation
Tim Dominick
Department of Transportation
Mike Evitts
Maryland Zoo
Lt. Jerome Forrest Police Department
Kevin Green
Department of Transportation
Commissioner Richard Worley Police Department
Deputy Commissioner Sheree Brisco Police Department
Terry Hasseltine
Maryland Sports
Major Sam Hood Police Department
Nancy Hinds
Executive Director, Signal 13
Sean Huffman
MedStar Sports Medicine
Anita James
Department of Transportation/Permits
Tim Knight
Department of Transportation
Mike Frenz
Maryland Stadium Authority
Tom Leonard Pickles Pub
Michael Lucas
Department of Public Works
Al Malone
Department of Transportation
Bill Marcus
Downtown Partnership
Eugene McCullough Fire Inspector
David McMillan
Office of Emergency Management
Frank Murphy
Department of Transportation
Eddy Okoro
Maryland Transit Administration
Dan Joerres
WBAL/98Rock
Kevin Plank
Under Armour
Lt. Gerald Quarles Fire Department
Laurie Schwartz
Waterfront Partnership
Matt Shaffer
Waterfront Partnership
Steve Sharkey
Department of Transportation
Bart Shifler
Maryland Stadium Authority
Tonya Simmons
Department of Public Works
Dr. Matt Sedgley
MedStar Sports Medicine
Andre Smith Department of Transportation
Roy Sommerhof
Baltimore Ravens
Matt Kujava
Waterfront Partnership
Fran Spero
Recreation and Parks
Chief Charles Svehla Fire Department
Vincent Thomas Parking Authority
Hannah Tropf Under Armour
Heather Goodman Under Armour
German Vigil Department of Transportation
Marlon Walton Department of Transportation
Lt. Deidre Weems Fire Department/EMS
Babatunde Yussuf
Department of Transportation
Joseph McCann CSX
Rafay Siddiqui
Department of Transportation
Quentin Smith Department of Transportation
Major Dwayne Swinton Police Department
Thea King Office of Emergency Management
James Wallace
Office of Emergency Management
Chief Dante Smith
Baltimore Fire Department
Captain Bill McCarren
Baltimore Fire Department
Shannon Brown
Maryland Zoo
Sharon Swencki
Medstar Sports Medicine
VOLUNTEER GROUPS
UMBC Softball
Baltimore Road Runners
Baltimore Front Runners
Infinit
Under Armor
Francis Scott Key
LuLu Lemon
Sigma Chi Towson
South Clifton Park Community Association
Groove Phi
Alpha Phi Omega
Greater Baltimore Board
Federation of the Blind Towson Track and field
Woodlawn Track and field
Ultimate Frisbee Towson
Towson Filipino Cultural Association
Baltimore Wave
MD Mercy Hospital
Athletes Serving Athletes
CORRIGAN SPORTS ENTERPRISES STAFF
Lee Corrigan, President
Andy Bilello
Amanda Corrigan
Booker Corrigan
Ryan Corrigan
Collin McClelland
Kerianne Allen
Joe Kerrigan
Sebastian Martinez
Mark Ragonese
Kimber Raheb
Chris Tomlinson
Susan Warpinski
Derek Wilson
TJ Clingerman
Brandon Voigt
Brendan DeVol Thank You!
OH, THE PACES YOU’LL GO! A POEM ALL
ABOUT THE BALTIMORE PACE GROUPS
Written by Joshua Reiter (& ChatGPT), Pace Group Leaderwith apologies to Dr. Suess
To the Marathon Pace Groups this Fall!
You’ve trained, you’ve sweated, you’ve run near and far,
Now it’s time to find out just how fast you are!
We’ve got pace groups for runners of every kind, To help you stay steady, and not fall behind.
Meet Your Pace Group Leaders, So Jolly and Bright, They’ll help you keep going, from morning to night!
With signs held up high and smiles on their faces, They’ll guide you through all the marathon places.
What Can You Expect on This Wonderful Day?
A run full of fun in the best kind of way!
Running together, you’ll find strength in the crowd, With cheers and high fives, we’ll make you feel proud.
Pick a Pace, Any Pace, Fast or Slow, We’ve got a group that’ll help you to go!
From 3:10 speedsters to those taking it slow, There’s a pace group leader here who’ll help you to flow.
Why Run with a Group?
Oh, Let Us Explain: It’s fun, it’s inspiring, and eases the strain!
With steady, sure steps and a laugh or two, Our pace group leaders will help carry you through.
On Race Day, Here’s What You Should Do:
Find your pace group leader, and say, “How do you do?”
Stick close, stay strong, and follow their lead, And soon you’ll be running at just the right speed.
After the Race, When the Running Is Done,
We’ll gather together, all under the sun.
Now the race is all done, when the Finish Line’s passed Celebrate big, you’ve made it at last!
Celebrate, laugh, and share your great tales, Of miles and smiles and conquering trails!
Whether you flew or took it nice and slow
We’re proud of you runner, you’re the star of the show!
RACE DESCRIPTIONS
5K
RACE START TIME 7:30 AM
Start Line at Light Street and Pratt Street
Containing just as much fanfare as the other races, the 5K course promises to be flat, fast and beautiful! The 5K starts near the USS Constellation, winds its way past Federal Hill, then loops back up Key Highway to Charles Street and finishing on Pratt Street. Baby & jogging strollers are prohibited unless approved for medical purposes in advance by race officials.
All 5K runners receive an Under Armour performance shirt and a finisher’s medal as part of their registration fee.
CAREFIRST BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD
HALF-MARATHON
RACE START TIME 9:45AM
Start Line at Calvert and Pratt Street
The CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield HalfMarathon has been the most popular of our race distance offerings and once again brings the largest participant field to the starting line. The half-marathon is a great training race for any fall marathon.
The merge point between the marathon and half-marathon will be at Patterson Park. The halfmarathon will again start near the 13.1-mile mark of the marathon course, splitting after 2/10 mile (half marathoners will have their own lane to that point) and will rejoin the marathon route around mile 16.
The additional 2.5 miles of separation between the courses will alleviate the “bunched up” merge point and make for a smooth transition.
Participants in the half-marathon will receive an Under Armour performance shirt and a finisher’s medal as part of their registration fee.
BALTIMORE MARATHON
RACE START TIME 8AM
Start line at Paca and Camden Street
The 2024 course shows the great diversity of Charm City as runners travel through the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, charming Fells Point, Lake Montebello then concludes with an epic finish at the historic Inner Harbor. The course is challenging but fair and a great test for any marathoner.
The merge point between the marathon and half-marathon will be at Patterson Park. The half-marathon will again start at the 13.1 mile mark of the marathon course, splitting after 2/10 mile (half marathon will have their own lane to that point) and will rejoin the marathon route around mile 16. The additional 2.5 miles of separation between the courses will alleviate the “bunched up” merge point and make for a smooth transition.
Participants in the marathon will receive an Under Armour performance shirt and a finisher’s medal as part of their registration fee.
PANDORA 10K
RACE START TIME 8AM
Start line at Paca and Camden Street
The Pandora 10K will start at 8am with the full marathoners just outside Gate A of Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Together, they will run up Eutaw St. between the famed warehouse and the stadium, making a left on Camden St. Runners will run right on Paca St. following the marathon course for the first 2 miles. At this point the 10k runners will split from the marathoners and make their way to Maryland Ave. before dropping down back into the city and crossing the finish line on Pratt St.
We are excited to continue to bring this 6.2 mile event to the mix on race day!
All 10K runners receive an Under Armour performance shirt and a finisher’s medal as part of their registration fee.
FIT FINDER
2024 BALTIMORE MARATHON
STREET DIRECTIONS
START CORNER OF PACA ST. AND CAMDEN ST. (ACROSS FROM PICKLES PUB)
• Proceed north on Paca St
• Paca St to LEFT onto McCulloh
• McCulloh turns into Druid Hill Ave/Swan Drive
• RIGHT onto Gwynns Falls
• LEFT onto Beechwood Dr
• RIGHT on Safari Place (entering the Zoo)
• Continue through Zoo on Buffalo Yard Rd and around the back road of the Penguin Exhibit
• Exit Zoo LEFT onto Mansion House Dr (Caution: Uneven Road)
• LEFT onto East Dr (Caution: Speed Humps)
• East Dr turns into Wyman Park Dr. as you are exiting Druid Hill Park
• Continue on Wyman Park Dr (Crossing over Remington Ave)
• Turn RIGHT at San Martin Dr
• Turn RIGHT on Wyman Park Dr (Becomes Howard St)
• Howard St to LEFT onto 28th St
• 28th St to RIGHT onto St Paul St
• Turn LEFT onto Pratt St
• Turn RIGHT onto NB Light St. (against traffic)
• Turn RIGHT onto Lee St and make immediate LEFT crossing back over onto SB Light St
• Turn LEFT onto Key Highway
• Continue on Key Highway Extension
• TURNAROUND on Key Highway Extension at Under Armour Campus
• Key Highway Extension turns into Key Highway
• Key Highway RIGHT onto Light St
• Light St to RIGHT on Pratt St.
• Pratt St to RIGHT on President
• Bear RIGHT around circle to LEFT on Lancaster St (Caution: Cobblestones)
• RIGHT over Central Ave bridge
*SUBJECT TO CHANGE. PLEASE
• Turn LEFT onto Point St through Harbor Point
• Turn RIGHT to stay on Point St
• Turn LEFT onto S. Caroline St
• Turn RIGHT on Aliceanna St
• Slight RIGHT on Boston St
• Turn LEFT on Lakewood and bear RIGHT on O’Donnell St
• LEFT on Linwood Ave (Caution: Merge with Half Marathon after crossing Eastern Ave)
• LEFT on Madison
• RIGHT on Washington
• Slight RIGHT onto St. Lo Dr.
• RIGHT on Harford Rd.
• LEFT on Hillen Rd.
• Slight RIGHT on 33rd St.
• From 33rd St., turn RIGHT into Lake Montebello via Whitman Drive and turn right into the vehicle lanes
• Follow road along the lake and make a counter clockwise U-turn into the Bike/Run Path at the topside of the lake.
• Head back towards Whitman Drive, turning LEFT to exit the lake onto 33rd St.
• Immediate RIGHT on Hillen Road after exiting Lake Montebello
• Turnaround on Hillen Road at median at entrance to MERVO High School athletic fields and head south towards 33rd St
• RIGHT on 33rd St.
• LEFT on Guilford Ave.
• RIGHT on 29th St.
• LEFT on Maryland Ave
• Slight RIGHT to stay on Cathedral St
• Cathedral St becomes Liberty St after crossing Saratoga
• Liberty St becomes Hopkins Place after crossing Baltimore St
• LEFT on Pratt St
FINISH ON PRATT ST BETWEEN CHARLES AND LIGHT ST (IN FRONT OF KONA GRILL)
YOUR NEXT RACEDAY SHOULD BE IN OCEAN CITY
We’re bringing back a race on the shore for year two! The Ocean City Running Festival is a can’t miss event along the Atlantic Ocean. The event will feature a full marathon, half marathon, 8k and 5k race distances. The second iteration of this event is slated for November 2, 2024 – this event will fall between Corrigan Sports established Baltimore Running Festival and Bay Bridge Run.
Lee Corrigan, President of Corrigan Sports – “Year one of the Ocean City Running Festival was a such a huge success that we’re looking to make this a mustattend event each fall! The town of Ocean City was so accommodating and eager to bring this race to their home and we are very grateful for their support in making this happen.”
CSE hopes to surpass the 3,500-runner mark in year two with some authentic Ocean City premium items, along with Ocean City-themed race medals for all finishers. The full marathon, 8K, and 5K will start in the inlet parking lot just south of the Ferris Wheel.
Full marathoners will have the opportunity to run through Assateague Island National Seashore before returning to Ocean City proper. Half marathoners will be shuttled to start at Assateague Island. ALL races will conclude down the award-winning boardwalk, currently ranked one of America’s top ten boardwalks, where they will finish in the inlet parking lot overlooking breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Along with the Ocean City Running Festival comes The Chessie Challenge! A challenge for distance and casual runners alike! Just complete any distance at three of our famed races to earn your amazing Chessie themed tote bag. If you’ve already completed the Annapolis Running Festival, B-10 or Baltimore Running Festival and would like to complete the Chessie Challenge, register for the Ocean City Running Festival today!
Take part in Corrigan Sports latest addition to their race calendar on November 2nd in Ocean City, Maryland! Visit OCMDrunfest.com for more details!
2024 CAREFIRST BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD
STREET DIRECTIONS
START ON PRATT STREET (FACING WEST) BETWEEN CALVERT AND SOUTH ST.
• Turn RIGHT onto Calvert St.
• Calvert St. to RIGHT on Fayette St.
• Fayette St. to RIGHT on President St (Southbound)
• President St to LEFT on Baltimore St
• Baltimore St to RIGHT on Patterson Park Ave
• Patterson Park Ave. to LEFT on Eastern Ave.
• Eastern Ave. to LEFT on Linwood Ave. (Caution: Merge with the Full Marathon)
• Linwood Ave. to LEFT on Madison St
• Madison to RIGHT on Washington St
• Turn RIGHT on St Lo Dr
• St. Lo Dr. to RIGHT on Harford Rd.
• Harford Rd. to LEFT on Hillen Rd.
• Hillen Rd. to Slight RIGHT on 33rd St.
• From 33rd St., turn RIGHT into Lake Montebello via Whitman Drive and turn right into the vehicle lanes
• Follow road along the lake and make a counter clockwise U-turn into the Bike/Run Path at the topside of the lake.
• Head back towards Whitman Drive, turning LEFT to exit the lake onto 33rd St.
• Immediate RIGHT on Hillen Road after exiting Lake Montebello
• Turnaround on Hillen Road at median at entrance to MERVO High School athletic fields and head south towards 33rd St
• RIGHT on 33rd St.
• LEFT on Guilford Ave.
• RIGHT on 29th St.
• LEFT on Maryland Ave
• Slight RIGHT to stay on Cathedral St
• Cathedral St becomes Liberty St after crossing Saratoga
• Liberty St becomes Hopkins Place after crossing Baltimore St
• LEFT on Pratt St
FINISH ON PRATT ST BETWEEN CHARLES AND LIGHT ST (IN FRONT OF KONA GRILL)
*SUBJECT TO CHANGE. PLEASE CHECK EVENT WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS FOR UPDATES PRIOR TO RACE DAY.
BALTIMORE 10K
• Proceed north on Paca St
• Paca St to LEFT onto McCulloh
• LEFT onto McCulloh St.
• RIGHT onto Druid Park Lake Dr.
• RIGHT to continue onto Mt. Royal Terrace
• LEFT onto North Ave.
• RIGHT onto N. Charles St
• RIGHT onto W. Lafayette
• LEFT onto Maryland Ave.
• Slight RIGHT to stay on Cathedral St
• Cathedral St becomes Liberty St after crossing Saratoga
• Liberty St becomes Hopkins Place after crossing Baltimore St
• LEFT on Pratt St FINISH ON PRATT ST BETWEEN CHARLES AND LIGHT ST (IN FRONT OF KONA GRILL) subject to
2024
PARTICIPANT RATED
WITH A HALF AND 5K
RATED ON RACERAVES
MARCH 8
Richmond is gorgeous and this race shows it o like never before! The half and 5k courses are rich in architecture, lush foliage, river views, outdoor gems like Pony Pasture, and more! The event will start and finish on the campus of the University of Richmond, the No. 1 Most Beautiful Campus in the nation. Plus, in true Sports Backers fashion we promise amazing swag and a finish line celebration for the books!
2024 5K STREET DIRECTIONS
START –INTERSECTION OF LIGHT AND PRATT STREET GOING SOUTH. (MCKELDIN SQUARE)
Note Runners will be in the northbound lanes of Light St, running south
• Light St to LEFT On Key Highway
• Turnaround (Clockwise) on Key Highway at the island just before the BP Gas Station/ 7-11 Store
• Follow Key Hwy back north, passing Rash Field and the MD Science Center
• Continue straight onto Hughes St
• RIGHT on Charles St
• RIGHT on Pratt St
FINISH ON PRATT ST BETWEEN CHARLES AND LIGHT ST (IN FRONT OF KONA GRILL)
BALTIMORE THINGS TO DO AROUND
Baltimore has long cherished its history as an American melting pot. The city’s population growth started in the mid-1800s, when an influx of immigrants from Germany and Ireland arrived. In the years following, newly minted Baltimoreans poured into the city from Poland, Russia, Ukraine and other Eastern European nations; after that came families from Italy, Greece and other home countries.
These cultural influences are still visible in the city today, clustered in neighborhoods like Little Italy and Greektown, in institutions such as the Irish Railroad Workers Museum, and in traditions like the celebrated corned beef sandwiches at Atwater’s Deli.
There’s much to celebrate about the energy and diversity that immigrants bring to a city. One of the best ways to explore Baltimore’s melting pot is through food. The food! Our city has a world of restaurant options dishing up delicious culinary traditions from around the globe like Latin American, Asian, French, Spanish, Mediterranean and more.
Interested in taking a mini tour of different cuisines in one afternoon? Head to one of our many urban markets, where you can snag bites of culinary traditions all in one stop; and many of which are on the marathon route. Seek out: R. House, Lexington Market, Cross Street Market, Union Collective or Broadway Market.
Baltimore’s dining scene takes seafood very seriously, and there are endless ways to savor and sample Maryland blue crabs, fresh local oysters and other bounties of the Chesapeake Bay. There are many places where you can enjoy our state’s most classic cuisine ranging from brand new hot spots, hidden gems and those that are loved by locals just as much as visitors.
Whether you’ve got an hour or a whole weekend, Visit Baltimore will help you tour our town like a local when you travel here for race weekend. Here are some Mini Adventures where you can mix and match to create your day for you:
PHOTOS BY JASON VARNEY
IN TOWN WITHOUT A CAR
DURING
RACE WEEKEND?
Baltimore has a few options to get you around town.
CHARM CITY CIRCULATOR :
Free bus service with four routes that go north-south and east-west, to many attractions and hotels. Take the Banner Route to get from the Inner Harbor to Fort McHenry. The circulator runs every 15-20 minutes seven days a week; hours vary.
BALTIMORE WATER TAXI :
Baltimore’s most scenic way to get around, with stops from the Inner Harbor to Canton. For a one-price, all-day pass, you can ride around the harbor or hop on and off to visit attractions and have lunch.
ELECTRIC SCOOTERS :
Baltimore’s newest mode of transportation, Spin and Lime electric scooters are available throughout the city. With an app, you can pick up a scooter wherever you find one, scoot around town and drop the scooter when you are done. Helmets and drivers’ licenses required.
MTA : Maryland’s public transit authority operates the Light Rail and the Metro subway, plus more than 60 bus routes throughout the city. Check the website for schedules and routes at mta.maryland.gov.
DITCH THE CAR (AND THE BIKE) FOR THE MOMENT
electric bike companies
Bird and Spin are parked in popular locations around the city, especially around the Inner Harbor. It’s a great way to see the city’s neighborhoods. If it’s a nice day, grab a bagel or a sandwich and swing by Federal Hill Park for a picnic with one of the best views of Baltimore’s skyline. Take a stroll (or hop back on your scooter) to see historic Federal Hill’s picturesque streets, lined with 18th and 19th-century rowhomes. After that, continue through Tide Point until you reach historic Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine, where Francis Scott Key wrote our national anthem during the War of 1812.
GRAB A BEER AT A BREWERY (OR SIP
A LOCAL
SPIRIT)
- Recent years have seen a wellspring of local breweries and distilleries popping up in and around Baltimore. Visit the Mount Vernon cultural district and stop at The Brewer’s Art, an upscale brew pub set in a grand townhouse. Pratt Street Ale House serves up beer from one of Baltimore’s oldest and longest-running breweries, Oliver Brewery. Ministry of Brewing is open for business inside the former St. Michael’s Church in Fells Point. Located in Federal Hill, Checkerspot is named for the Maryland state butterfly. Keeping with the outdoors theme, Diamondback Brewing Co. in Locust Point is named for Maryland’s official state
reptile. Mobtown Brewing is fittingly situated in Brewers Hill. Monument City Brewing Co. is housed inside a former warehouse in Highlandtown. Finally, situated in Waverly on the site of the former Oriole’s Park from the early 1900s, Peabody Heights Brewery is a co-op that allows fledgling brewers to hone their beers under the guidance of a master brewer. Looking for something harder? Head to a distillery to sip an award-winning local spirit—try Old Line Spirits for American whiskey and aged Caribbean rum, or Sagamore Spirit for rye whiskies. Cheers!
WANDER A MUSEUM
- Art abounds in Baltimore. Those interested in an only-inBaltimore museum experience might visit the American Visionary Art Museum, which is dedicated to showcasing selftaught artists. Baltimore Museum of Industry is located in an old cannery and has hands-on exhibits on various types of manufacturing from the early 20th century. Across town, the Baltimore Museum of Art is free and home to 95,000 objects. Sports fans should check out the Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum dedicated to perpetuating the historic legacy of Babe Ruth, Baltimore’s Orioles, Ravens and Colts, and local and regional sports at the amateur, collegiate and professional levels.
5K Start Line
CSEVIPChallenge Tent
Located in the Inner Harbor, the Constellation Home Celebration Village will feature live music, vendors, charity tents, food and drinks on race day, Saturday, October 19 from 8 AM to 2 PM. The Village is FREE and open to the public. Come on down to the Celebration Village to cheer your family, friends and neighbors as they cross the finish line. The Awards Ceremony will take place on center stage located in West Shore Park in the Village.
CAMDEN
2024 EXPO/RACE DAY TRANSPORTATION & PARKING
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION TO THE FESTIVAL
The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) encourages all attendees, particularly half-marathoners, to be mindful of parking and road closures & make public transportation your choice for getting to the festival on expo days as well as race day.
On race day, roadways around town and near the stadium will be closed prior to 8am for the marathon & relay start. This will be further complicated by the half-marathon start at 9:45am. Light Rail will deliver riders to the festival, and provides free parking where parking is available. The Light Rail system will run every 15 min. beginning at 6 am coming South from Hunt Valley (53 min. ride) to the stadium and at 4:52 am coming North from Cromwell (33 min. ride) to the stadiums. Runners should exit from the Camden Yards stop for easy access to the start/ finish and the expo.
Light Rail on the expo days is a great way to make a trial run as you prepare for race day travel. Eliminate some race day stress as you figure out where to park and estimate the travel time from your door to the Hamburg St. stop.
Metro Subway may also be an option for some travelers.
Weekday/Weekend North Bound and South Bound. Please check MTA’s website for the most up to date schedule.
SCHEDULES: http://mta.maryland.gov/light-rail
LIGHT RAIL MAP: http://mta.maryland.gov/light-rail
LIGHT RAIL STATION AND PARKING INFORMATION: http://mta.maryland.gov/light-rail-stationparking-info
We suggest all runners arrive 90 minutes prior to the start of their race. If you choose not to ride MTA on race day, you will want to arrive by 6:30am regardless of the race you are running.
SCHEDULES AND FARES
Day passes: Regular fare $4.20; senior fare $2.10. Day passes are valid for unlimited travel on Light Rail and other MTA services on the date purchased until 3:00am the following day. Fares can be purchased with cash, credit or CharmCard at all Light Rail stations.
DIRECTIONS TO STADIUM LOTS
Lots A, B, C - Opens at 5:30 am on race day
FROM THE NORTH AND SOUTH - from I-95 take Exit 53 (I-395) to MLK Blvd./Russell Street (Right Lane). Take the first exit on the right (Russell Street-follow lighted sign). At the bottom of the ramp make a left (onto Lee Street/ Ripken Way) to the entrance of Lot A or B or turn right to the entrance C.
FROM DOWNTOWN - Take Howard Street South; make a right turn at Conway Street (near Camden Warehouse). Proceed down the service road to the entrance to Lot C or turn right to the Entrance of Lot A or B . Lot H- Opens at 5:30 am on race day
FROM THE NORTH - I-95 South to Key Highway exit 55 immediately after the tunnel. At end of ramp proceed straight ahead onto McCommas Street. Turn right at Hanover Street. LOT H: Turn left turn at
Ostend Street. Turn right on Sharp Street. Lot H is on your left. FROM THE SOUTH - I-95 North to Hanover Street exit 54. At bottom of ramp proceed south on Hanover Street (stay in the right lane). Make a right onto the access road just before the Cromwell Street light. At Cromwell Street light, make a left onto northbound Hanover Street.
LOT H: Left turn at Ostend Street. Turn right on Sharp Street. Lot on your left. FROM DOWNTOWN LOT H: Light Street South**. Continue straight on Light St. at Key Hwy turn lanes. Turn right onto Ostend. Turn right on Sharp Street. Parking lot is on your left. . (** Light St. closes to all traffic at 8am) .
EXPO PARKING & SHUTTLE
PARKING OPTIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE PENDING ORIOLES POST-SEASON SCHEDULE. PLEASE SEE WEBSITE FOR UPDATED INFORMATION
We encourage all runners to use the Light Rail on both expo days and race day. However, we offer FREE expo parking and roundtrip shuttle services in lots G &H.
SHUTTLE HOURS: Friday, Oct. 18: 10:30-8:30
RACE DAY PARKING
Parking is FREE in lots A, B, C, H. Paid lots in various locations throughout the city. You can view an interactive map of downtown parking options here: http://baltimore.org/maps
CALlING ALl DECKHANDS! A NEW VOYAGE AWAITS
To enter the Chessie Challenge participants are required to register for the following
Annapolis RunFest MARCH 2025
Baltimore 10 Miler JUNE 7, 2025
Baltimore RunFest OCTOBER 19, 2025
YEAR TWO of this awesome event in the capital city. Corrigan Sports brings its compelling race for everyone formula to Annapolis.
Ocean City RunFest Nov 1, 2025
A challenging yet fair course, the 10-Miler takes participants through parts of Baltimore that are often not appreciated when driving through them.
Runners are sure to have quite the unique and memorable experience as they tour every corner of the city.
Complete your foot tour of Maryland with the second iteration of the Ocean City Running Festival! This event will feature scenic routes all of which include the OC Boardwalk. AND AND OR
10 MILER 2-PERSON RELAY
Registrants of the Chessie Challenge will
THE COMEBACK RUN: JACKIE’S
JOURNEY
OF RESILIENCE
On October 24, 2023, at 46 years old, Jackie received news that would shift her world forever. The diagnosis was Neuroendocrine Tumors, a rare form of cancer that quietly took root in her small intestine before spreading to her liver. Though treatable, this type of cancer is not curable. For Jackie, the battle has been fought through surgeries and medication. It’s a relentless adversary, but she has faced it with an unwavering resolve.
Over the past year, Jackie has undergone two surgeries. The first removed the primary tumor in her small intestine, and the second was to address one of the tumors in her liver. Despite these procedures, the cancer remains present—a reminder of the uncertain journey ahead. Yet, for Jackie, this disease is only a small part of her story.
“I’ve got a ‘schosce’ of cancer in my liver,” she says with a wry smile, “but cancer doesn’t have me.”
Now, one year after that life-altering diagnosis, Jackie is preparing for her “comeback run.” For her, running isn’t just exercise—it’s a ritual of reclaiming life after major milestones. After the birth of each of her sons, she celebrated by completing a half marathon approximately a year later. This time, the race holds an even deeper meaning.
It’s a testament to her resilience, to her ability to keep pushing forward despite the obstacles that cancer has placed in her path. “This isn’t just a race,” Jackie reflects. “It’s my way of marking the anniversary of something that could have taken me down but didn’t. I’m still here, still running.”
KARIN’S GRAND FINALE: 50 STATES, 50 MARATHONS, AND A JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME
For Karin, what started as an attempt to catch the eye of a fellow student turned into a lifelong passion. In 2006, she laced up her running shoes to run her first marathon, hoping to gain the attention of a guy in her graduate class. The relationship didn’t last, but her love for running marathons did. In the seven years that followed, Karin completed marathons in four new states while running annual favorites like Grandma’s Marathon and Twin Cities Marathon. But it was in 2013, after crossing the finish line at Missoula, Montana, that Karin set her sights on a much bigger goal: completing a marathon in all 50 states. That decision marked the beginning of an incredible journey across the United States. Fast forward to 2024, Karin is preparing for the grand finale—her 50th and final state marathon in Baltimore, Maryland. As she prepares to cross her final state off the list at the Baltimore Running Festival, Karin reflects on the incredible journey that brought her here. It’s been a path filled with perseverance, friendships, and unforgettable experiences. And when she crosses that final finish line, she’ll do so with pride, wearing the 50 States Marathon Club Finisher shirt she’s worked so hard to earn.
For Karin, it’s not just about running marathons anymore. It’s about celebrating a journey that started with a simple goal and grew into something so much more—an achievement of a lifetime.
Name Hometown
Taurance Bishop Bear, DE
Ronnie Bridges Kingsville, MD
Cliff Cole Fort Meade, MD
Chris Haley Gambrills, MD
Jude Larkin Germantown, MD
Kyle Marsac Annapolis, MD
Erick Mercado Woodbridge, VA
Logan Pasqual Nottingham, MD
Kimberly Poinsett Crofton, MD
This group of runners participated in the Annapolis Running Festival, Delaware Running Festival, Frederick Running Festival, Baltimore 10-Miler, Baltimore Running Festival and Ocean City Running Festival this year. By running in every event, and the Nut Job, Baltimoron and Chessie challenges, they earned a total of 13 medals from Corrigan Sports 2024 Signature east coast events. That’s 6 events, 8 distances/races plus bonus medals for the Nut Job, Baltimoron, Big Freakin’ Deal, Black Eyed Susan, and Chessie Challenges.
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR IMPRESSIVE ACHIEVEMENT!
13 MEDAL CLUB
BALTIMORE RUNNING FESTIVAL
PAST CHAMPIONS
MEN’S MARATHON 2001 Luka Cherono 2:19:44 2002 Erick Kimayo 2:17:43 2003 Erick Kimayo 2:18:40 2004 John Itati 2:14:51 2005 Mykola Antonenko 2:15:40 2006 Yirefu Birhanu 2:16:26
John Itati 2:16:24
Keter*
Alphonce Yatich
Muange
Stephen Muange
Berdan 2:30:06
Brian Rosenberg 2:33:27 2015 Dave Berdan 2:30:22 2016 Patrick Hearn 2:26:19 2017 Jordan Tropf 2:29:06 2018 Jeffrey Redfern 2:30:26 2019 Jeremy Ardanuy 2:27:16 2021 Jeremy Ardanuy 2:26:49
Robert Creese 2:26:45
Zachary Ripley 2:28:13
WOMEN’S MARATHON
2001 Elvira Kolpakova
2:52:08 2002 Elvira Kolpakova 2:50:00 2003 Elvira Kolpakova 2:48:49
2004 Ramilia Burangulova 2:40:21
2005 Ramilia Burangulova 2:42:00 2006 Rima Dubovik 2:35:45
2007 Gladys Asiba 2:36:27
2008 Maria Portilla 2:36:32
2009 Iulia Arkipova
2:32:09
2010 Olena Shurkhno 2:32:17
2011 Olena Shurkhno* 2:29:11
2012 Elfheshe Yado 2:38:46
2013 Elizabeth Perry 2:58:01
2014 Alex Wang
2:58:41
2015 Caitlin Gaughan 2:58:13
2016 Caitlyn Tateishi 2:55:42
2017 Silvia Baag 2:58:36
2018 Julia Roman-Duval 2:47:42 2019 Natalie Atabek 2:58:57 2021 Joanna Hayes 3:10:11
2022 Julia Roman-Duval 2:46:48
MEN’S HALF MARATHON
2023 Emily Royston 2:52:23 Year Name Time
2003 Gabriel Muchiri 1:06:55
2004 Haji Abdrrahim 1:03:45
2005 Samual Ndereba 1:06:11
Orare* 1:03:44
Girma Tolla 1:04:27
Girma Tolla 1:04:23
John Crews 1:07:24 2010 Sean Sharpe 1:14:51
Habib Ettarfaoui 1:11:59
Febish 1:11:49
Nick Arciniaga
Matt Jablonski
Dustin Whitlow 1:13:29
Matt Jablonski 1:08:50
HALF MARATHON
Dorota Gruca 1:20:52
Silvia Skvortsova 1:15:30
Natalya Berkut 1:15:12
Lyubov Denisova 1:15:13
Belainesh Zemedkun 1:14:45
Belainesh Gebre* 1:13:14
Kayoko Obata 1:15:17
Katrin Kreil 1:24:07
Katie Hursey 1:18:30
Jen Ecker 1:25:34
Julia Roman-Duval 1:20:54
Jennifer Ecker 1:23:34
Brenda Hodge 1:26:54
Jennifer Paul 1:23:46
Yiou Wang 1:20:29
Kaitlyn Govatos 1:23:45
Sarah Williams 1:20:39
Mary Lambkin 1:24:23
Megan DiGregorio 1:24:43
*EVENT RECORD
FEATURED CHARITY PARTNERS
The Baltimore Running Festival is proud to be able to support many great causes. Since its inception in 2001, the Baltimore Running Festival has helped to generate more than $15 million for our charity partners and impact the lives of those in need. These groups all strive to make this world a better place and influence the lives of those in need. The pandemic has caused great hardship for everyone, including all these wonderful groups. Your participation is helping to support amazing charity partners like these.
ATHLETES SERVING ATHLETES
ASA’s mission is to elevate the quality of life for individuals with limited mobility by empowering them to train for and participate in mainstream running events. We are a champion of inclusion, connecting ASA Athletes to runners from the community through our Wingman Program, inspiring all to celebrate the spirit of “Together We Finish!” Through tremendous community support and investment, ASA provides The Wingman Program free of charge to the ASA Athletes and families we serve.
FRANCIS SCOTT KEY ELEMENTARY
Francis Scott Key Elementary/ Middle School is located on a sprawling green campus in the Baltimore neighborhood of Locust Point. We deliver on our mission by providing outstanding programming and having committed teachers, students, families, and staff as well as local and nationally renowned community partners. In addition to serving our neighborhood enrollment zone, we offer Advanced Academics to middle school students from across the city.
JOHNS HOPKINS
CHILDRENS CENTER
Founded in 1912 as the children’s hospital at Johns Hopkins, the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center offers one of the most comprehensive pediatric medical programs in the country, with more than 92,000 patient visits and nearly 9,000 admissions each year. Johns Hopkins Children Center is consistently ranked among the top children’s hospitals in the nation by U.S.News & World Report. It is Maryland’s largest children’s hospital and the only state-designated Trauma Service and Burn Unit for pediatric patients.
AIMS INDIA
AIMS India foundation is an organization that seeks to bring about a social transformation in India through the collective efforts of hundreds of thousands of like-minded people and organizations spread wide across the globe. Our mission is to bring people together for the lofty purpose of bringing about a positive transformation in our motherland India, to achieve a vision of economically self-sufficient and a socially harmonious country that serves as a beacon of light to the rest of the world.
KENNEDY KRIEGER
Located in Baltimore, MD, Kennedy Krieger Institute is an internationally recognized institution dedicated to improving the lives of children and young adults with pediatric developmental disabilities and disorders of the brain, spinal cord and musculoskeletal system, through patient care, special education, research, and professional training. The Kennedy Krieger Institute leads the way in translating these scientific advances into new therapies and educational interventions, while providing an inspirational environment for training tomorrow’s leaders in the field. These successes benefit millions of children and families around the world.
CHASE BREXTON HEALTH CARE
Chase Brexton Health Care believes everyone deserves great health care… because everyone’s health matters. They provide a range of clinical services from primary medical care and behavioral health services to dental and pharmacy, among others, and welcome more than 45,000 patients annually in our five main centers located in Baltimore, Security Square, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Easton. Chase Brexton Health Care will lace up to support our patients by joining the iconic Baltimore Running Festival as an official Charity on Saturday, October 19. The “Hope Lives Here” Fund is used to reduce barriers to care for our patients: helping with nutrition assistance, eviction prevention, utility preservation, dental care, specialist referral expenses, among other critical resources to ensure patients can live their healthiest lives.
ROLAND PARK ANNUAL FUND
The Roland Park Annual Fund Incorporated (the Annual Fund) was formed to fund programs and expenditures at Roland Park Elementary/Middle School (RPEMS) that cannot be funded by other means and which enhance the learning experience for the entire school community. Over the past year, the Annual Fund has supported many programs to help students and teachers transition to the virtual platform such as funding for a school psychologist, online resources for teachers to use in their Zoom classes.
BALTIMORE RUNNING FESTIVAL BY THE
NUMBERS
500 Million Dollars of estimated cumulative economic impact the event has had on the city and state since its inception
25 Million Dollars of estimated economic impact of this year’s event
14 Million Dollars raised for local charities since event inception
500,000 Dollars raised annually for local charities
357,097 Runner registrations
20,000 Trash bags
15,000 Bags of snack-size Utz potato chips
12,000 Total runners in this year’s field
10,000 Gallons of water
5,000 Gallons of Gatorade
2,700 Labor hours to set up and tear down for the festival
1,500 Pounds of oranges
1,300 Pounds of bananas
500 Total volunteers (expo and race day)
47 States are represented in the 2024 BRF field
24 Annual running of the Baltimore Running Festival
11 Number of foreign countries represented in the entire field
10 Bands and DJ’s along the course
10 Water stations throughout the course
10 26-foot box trucks used for setup
7 Medical tents
1.6 Miles of bicycle rack utilized for barricade
FUN FACTS ABOUT BALTIMORE
Baltimore, a city brimming with history, charm, and unique character, offers a rich tapestry of stories and experiences for visitors. Nestled on the shores of Chesapeake Bay, this vibrant metropolis is more than just a port city; it’s a cultural hub with a deep-rooted legacy and eclectic neighborhoods. From its pivotal role in American history to its culinary delights and artistic treasures, Baltimore is a place where tradition and modernity intersect. Whether you’re exploring its historic landmarks or indulging in local flavors, here are ten fun facts that capture the essence of what makes Baltimore such a fascinating destination.
1. Home of the Baltimore Orioles: Baltimore is known for its Major League Baseball team, the Orioles, who play at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, one of the most celebrated ballparks in the country, consistently rated as a top five baseball park in the country.
2. Birthplace of the National Anthem: Francis Scott Key penned “The Star-Spangled Banner” during the War of 1812 while watching the British attack Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor. The fort is now a national monument.
3. Iconic Neon Sign: The Domino Sugar factory in Baltimore is famous for its enormous, iconic neon sign, which has been a landmark in the city since the 1950s. The sign, which glows brightly with the word “Domino,” is a beloved symbol of Baltimore’s industrial heritage and can be seen from across the harbor. The factory, established in 1922, continues to produce sugar and remains an integral part of Baltimore’s skyline.
4. The World’s Largest Lego Tower: At the National Aquarium in Baltimore, there is a Lego model of a giant crab that stands 8 feet tall, made of over 100,000 Lego bricks. It’s a popular attraction for both kids and adults.
5. Historic Ships: The Inner Harbor is home to several historic ships, including the USS Constellation, the last Civil Warera ship still afloat.
6. Edgar Allan Poe’s Final Resting Place: The famous writer Edgar Allan Poe is buried in Baltimore’s Westminster Hall and Burying Ground, where you can also visit his modest grave.
7. Baltimore Museum of Art: This museum boasts an impressive collection, including the largest holding of works by Henri Matisse in the world.
8. H.L. Mencken’s Legacy: The influential journalist and critic H.L. Mencken was a Baltimore native. You can visit the H.L. Mencken House in the city.
9. The First American Zoo: Baltimore is home to the oldest operating zoo in the United States, the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. Established in 1876, it features a wide range of animals and is renowned for its conservation efforts.
10. The First Cathedral in the U.S.: The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, completed in 1821, is the first Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States.
NO ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS
HONORING THE KEY BRIDGE: A STORY OF RESOLVE AND COMMUNITY
In the heart of Baltimore, where the patter of footsteps echoes through the bustling streets and the murmur of the harbor sings its own song, stood a monument not just of steel and concrete, but of resilience and unity: the Key Bridge. But this is not just any bridge. It is a symbol of Baltimore’s strength and solidarity, a story of overcoming unimaginable loss and coming together as one.
demonstrated their resilience and solidarity.
In the months that followed, the Key Bridge became more than a construction project; it was a symbol of Baltimore’s collective resolve. Residents from every neighborhood contributed to the rebuilding process in their own way. Schools held fundraisers, local businesses donated materials, and countless individuals volunteered their time and expertise.
The Key Bridge, named after Francis Scott Key, the famed author of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” was more than a mere structure connecting the city to its surrounding communities. It was a vital artery of commerce, a lifeline for daily commuters, and a landmark of pride for the city’s residents. Its towering arches and sweeping spans symbolized progress and connection, linking the vibrant neighborhoods of Baltimore like threads in a grand tapestry.
On March 26, 2024, the city faced an unspeakable tragedy. The Key Bridge was struck by a container ship bound for Sri Lanka and the rumble was heard miles away, and within minutes, the once proud landmark of Charm City collapsed into the harbor below.
The collapse left a gaping wound in the city’s infrastructure, and the immediate aftermath was chaos and heartbreak. Yet, even in the darkest hours, Baltimore’s spirit shone brightly. The response from the community was swift and profound. First responders, engineers, and volunteers from all walks of life sprang into action, working tirelessly to rescue survivors and begin the arduous task of cleanup and recovery. In the face of disaster, Baltimoreans
The city rallied around the project, a testament to its unyielding spirit. In 2024, the Baltimore Running Festival chose to honor the Key Bridge and its memory, by including a photo of it inside each finishers medal.
As the runners cross the finish line on October 19th, they will have completed more than a race— they will have participated in a living tribute to a city that had come together to overcome its darkest hours. The Key Bridge stood tall as a beacon of hope, its arches embracing the skyline and reminding all who saw it of Baltimore’s ability to face challenges with unwavering strength.
The story of the Key Bridge is more than a tale of a city and its infrastructure; it is a narrative of a community, of coming together in the face of tragedy, and of rebuilding with a renewed sense of purpose.
The Baltimore Running Festival is proud to honor the bridge and all who were lost and affected by this tragedy by including it inside the 2024 Crack The Crab Medal. We hope that each time you open it, it reminds you of the trials and tribulations you’ve experience while preparing for race day; just like Baltimoreans are reminded when they see the now naked skyline where the Key Bridge once stood.
CFG BANK
WHAT IT M EANS TO GIVE BACK.
We partner with and support the community in ways you may not be used to seeing from other companies, let alone banks.
Created the Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong Money Market Accounts, raising funds for those impacted by the Key Bridge tragedy.
Partnered with CFG Bank Arena and Baltimore Peninsula to invest in the success, growth, and invigoration of Baltimore.
Helped fund Dwyer Workforce Development, a nonprofit that provides job training and placement support for individuals who lack opportunity and aspire to pursue a career in the healthcare industry.
Donated more than $12MM to local organizations to support the community.
Supported the Baltimore Running Festival, Charm City’s biggest running event, and its efforts to bring people together to enjoy unique and memorable experiences through our great city.
THERE ARE TO WHAT WE CAN ACCOMPLISH
Good luck, runners!
We’re here for you before, during, and after the race.
As the trusted medical provider for the Baltimore Running Festival, we are here for you throughout your running journey.
Visit us after the race the MedStar Health Recovery Zone.
Teaming up to build healthier communities.
As a not-for-profit healthcare company, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield is committed to investing in the health and well-being of our area. When we partner for the good of our communities, everyone benefits. CareFirst and The Baltimore Running Festival are working to make a difference together.