AFCEA Central Maryland Race for Excellence 5K

Event Overview

This is the 19th annual AFCEA Central Maryland Race for Excellence, scheduled for Saturday, April 18th, 2026. The event supports the AFCEA Central Maryland STEM Scholarship Fund, with the chapter awarding over $200,000 annually in scholarships, endowments, and grants.

Distances & Format

The event offers multiple participation formats:

• A competitive 5K run
• A Family Fun Run/Walk
• Virtual options for both the 5K and Family Fun Run/Walk, which can be completed anywhere between April 18th and 19th.

Location & Course

The in-person event takes place in Columbia, Maryland. The start and finish lines are on Columbia Gateway Drive at the Leidos facility. The 5K course is a USATF-certified loop that is described as relatively flat with some inclines.

Schedule & Logistics

Race day registration and check-in begins at 7:30 AM. The 5K starts at 9:00 AM, followed by the Family Fun Run/Walk at 9:05 AM. An awards ceremony is held immediately after the 5K, around 10:00 AM. Packet pickup is available on the Thursday and Friday before the race at Charm City Run Columbia on Deepage Drive.

Post-Race & Amenities

An after-party is held at Pub Dog on Stanford Blvd in Columbia; registered runners receive one entry wristband. Registered participants receive a T-shirt if they register by March 31st, 2026. Water is provided on the 5K course, and a light breakfast is available for runners after the race.

Awards

Awards are given to the top three overall male and female finishers (based on gun time) and to the top three finishers in eight standard age groups (based on chip time). Team awards are given for the largest team and the fastest team, with trophies for the top three teams in each category.

Important Notes

Pets are not permitted at the event venue. Participants are instructed not to enter via Benjamin Franklin Drive but to use Columbia Gateway Drive. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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