Running Festival Returns To Annapolis With 3,000 Runners This Weekend

ANNAPOLIS, MD — The Annapolis Running Festival returns Saturday, marking the event's second year in the state capital.

The festival will draw 3,000 runners from 25 states.

There will be a half-marathon, a 10K and a 5K. The half-marathon is still open for registration for $115, but the other two runs are sold out.

The races start around 7 a.m. at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. They head downtown to City Dock before passing the stadium again. That's where the 5K will end.

The half-marathon and 10K will continue across the Naval Academy Bridge. The 10K will turn around and head back to the stadium, while the half-marathon continues along the B&A trail before returning to the stadium.

The half-marathon will feature a charity chaser. Annapolis Detective Courtney Moore will start in last place, and race planner Corrigan Sports Enterprises will donate $4 to the Annapolis Police Foundation for every runner Moore passes.

An afterparty at Navy Stadium will have live music, beer, oysters and steamed shrimp.

"We are thrilled to bring back the Annapolis Running Festival for its second year, offering runners an opportunity to challenge themselves while enjoying this beautiful city," Corrigan Sports Enterprises President Lee Corrigan said in a press release. "With the scenic routes, the Charity Chaser element, and the chance to explore the beauty of Annapolis, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience for all involved."

Olney resident Sarah Thomas will run the half-marathon while nearly 28 weeks pregnant. Thomas was last pregnant during the pandemic, so she ran solo and missed out on in-person runs.

"I am grateful I’ve been able to run during both my pregnancies but I’m so excited to get the opportunity to attend live races this time around," Thomas said in the release. "There is just something exciting about getting to enjoy a race experience and all the energy from other runners while tackling 13.1 miles while pregnant!"

Runners can learn more by visiting annapolisrunfest.com.