NCR Marathon
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NCR Marathon and Half Marathon
The NCR Marathon is the oldest continuously running marathon in Baltimore. Organized by the Baltimore Road Runners Club, the event features a course that is USATF certified and serves as a Boston Marathon qualifier. The race takes place annually on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, starting at the Oldfields School campus in Sparks Glencoe, Maryland.
The primary route follows the Northern Central Railroad Trail, also known as the Torrey C. Brown Trail. This path consists of crushed gravel and dirt, winding through wooded areas and farmland alongside the Big Gunpowder Falls river. The course is an out-and-back design and is characterized by a net downhill elevation change of 151 feet.
Available distances include:
- 26.2 mile marathon
- 13.1 mile half marathon
Participants utilize a chip-timing system for official results. The event includes water stations located every 3 to 3.5 miles providing hydration and energy gels at specific intervals. Registered participants receive race premiums such as a fleece hoodie, and finishers are awarded a medal and a sweatshirt blanket. Post-race activities include an awards ceremony held in the Oldfields gymnasium, where unique awards are presented to overall, masters, and age-group winners.
Transportation is provided via shuttle buses from a satellite parking lot to the school campus. The event also maintains a bag check for runners at the start location. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
