Your Guide: Wilmington Chamber of Commerce Half Marathon and 5K

Each Thursday, we take a more in depth look at an upcoming event happening in Wilmington. You can post your event here.

The Wilmington Chamber of Commerce will host Wilmington's 9th annual half marathon and 5K run or walk this Sunday, Sept. 22.

According to Nancy Vallee, Executive Director of the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, there are several changes to the race this year, most notably a complete overhaul of the half marathon course.

The half marathon course begins and ends on Waltham Street this year, and is now completely in Wilmington instead of venturing into North Reading at points as in past years, according to Vallee.

"Runners will love the new course because it's a faster course, meaning less hills," Vallee said.

The race will is also certified by USA Track and Field for the first time, according to Vallee, which adds credibility and allows runners to qualify for other races. 

There will be a host of festivities in addition to the races, including a DJ, hotdogs, fruit, ice cream, face painting, a bouncy house as well as booths set up by 12 members of the Wilmington Chamber.

Here are some important times for runners and spectators:

• 8 a.m.            Registration Tables Open
• 10:10 a.m.     Shotgun Start For Both Races
• 11:15 a.m.     5K Awards
  
• 12:30 p.m.     Half Awards