By Emily McBee
Baltimore Watchdog Staff Writer
Thousands of runners came out to Baltimore City to celebrate the 15th annual Baltimore Running Festival last weekend.
The race kicked off at 8 a.m. on Oct. 17 starting with the longest of the four races, the marathon. The marathon runs through the city of Baltimore, including the Inner Harbor, Fells Point and Federal Hill. The race runs through the Baltimore Zoo, passing the penguin exhibit.
“This was my first marathon, and although that was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had I’m sure glad it’s over,” said Cody Danna, a marathon runner. “The race was challenging and runners were currently never bored, the terrain was constantly changing.”
The marathon had over 2,500 people competing. The fastest runner, David Berdan of Owings Mills, who finished the 26.2-mile event in two hours and 31 minutes – five minutes before the next person.
The 5K race was designed to encourage runners and walkers to be a part of the festival, organizers said. The race ended at Camden Yards, the same place the marathon and half marathon finished. Those who finished the race in one hour received a medal showing their efforts.
“I love volunteering during the Baltimore Running Festival,” said Kim Altenberger, a local gym teacher who marked the 5K. “It is certainly a race for everyone.”
The race was set up by volunteers and some law enforcement officials as early as 5 a.m. Residents who live on the streets where runners would be stampeding through were told to move their cars until the race was over.
“I have lived on Broadway for years and despite the inconvenience I have no problems moving my car for the runners,” said Carrie Podles, a resident of Baltimore. “I love this day, especially this year after all the craziness my city has been through. Today we are one city cheering on other members of our community.”
The half marathon had the most participants with 7,415. Runners had to be 14 years or older to run in the race. Some runners were looking to qualify for multiple marathons around the country. Others were just getting an extreme exercise.
“This is not my first half marathon. I’ve been doing half marathons for a few years now, but this one will always be my favorite,” runner Lauren Keffer said. “My best friend and I did it together this year and it was perfect, a lot of laughs and smiles.”
The half marathon started at the Inner Harbor with a live band hyping the runners up for a long race. The race eventually merged with full marathon runners, split off, and then joined back together closer to the finish line.
Organizers said they split the race up to allow media to cover the first place winner of the marathon in live coverage. Local TV news stations follow the first place runner after mile 15.
Despite the traffic and the impossible navigation through the city, the festival is one of the highest grossing days for most Baltimore restaurants. Some restaurants open early to welcome spectators and participants.
“We knew a couple weeks ago that we would be opening early,” said Emily Borkowski, a waitress at the Cheesecake Factory. “I don’t mind, these guys deserve to have as many drinks as they want after they finish the race.”
“This is a fun day for us, it brings the community together and we certainly enjoy cheering the runners on who pass by during the race,” said Jennifer Quinn, general manager of Alexander’s Tavern in Fells Point. “The servers make money and the runners get great food and drinks. It’s a win-win.”
The Baltimore Running Festival will be resuming next year on Oct. 15. Registration begins next month for the marathon and half marathon with a one-day-only special on Nov. 30.