The Inaugural Maryland Half Marathon to benefit the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center (UMGCC) will take place on Sunday, May 31, 2009 at 7:30 am. Highlights include an exhilarating 13.1 mile race through the beautiful, rolling hills of rural Baltimore County, beginning and ending on the historic race track at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, MD, as well as a post-race concert and festival.

As the local running community, families, and corporate sponsors join together, a significant amount of funds and awareness will be generated. UMGCC recently received the National Cancer Institute designation, a distinction shared by only 63 other centers across the country, in addition to being named one of the top 50 Cancer Centers in the nation by US News and World Report.

The goal for the inaugural 2009 race is to secure 2009 runners as well as host hundreds of additional attendees for the post- race concert and festival. Amenities include special race shirts, chip-timing, a fun-run for children, medals and awards ceremony. Delicious food and beverages from dozens of Maryland's favorite vendors will be served following the race.

The Maryland Half Marathon is the only half marathon in Baltimore County. Other distinguishing qualities, such as on- site personal trainers, a special "County Cup" awarded to the first Maryland resident to cross the finish line, "Going Green" initiatives, an extensive Kid's Zone (including a rock wall, balloon artists, etc.), as well as cancer survivors awarding finishers with medals, will surely be gratifying for all participants.

We look forward to your support of the 2009 Maryland Half Marathon to benefit the Greenebaum Cancer Center.

To register go to the race Race Web site.