Corrigan Sports Enterprises is pleased to announce CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield as the title sponsor of the Half-Marathon, a new event in this year's Baltimore Running Festival. The CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Half-Marathon is one of five races that make up the Baltimore Running Festival taking place Saturday, October 18, 2003.

The CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Half-Marathon was added to the Baltimore Running Festival as another option for runners who want to run a shorter distance. The half-marathon will also be a great training run for individuals who may be participating in a subsequent fall marathon.

In addition to the Baltimore Marathon and the new CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Half-Marathon, the Running Festival features the Fila 5K, the GEICO Direct Team Relay and a Kids Fun Run. All events surrounding the Running Festival, including packet pick-up, take place at Ravens Stadium.

In other news, first place for the men and women's marathon champions will pay $4,000, an increase of $1,000 from last year. Prize money is being offered in the CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Half-Marathon (1st place - $500, 2nd place - $300, 3rd place - $200) and Fila 5K (1st place - $300, 2nd place -$200, 3rd place - $100) as well. Cash prizes will also be awarded to the top three male and female Maryland state residents competing in the marathon.

For more information on the Baltimore Running Festival or to register for any of these great races, please visit www.thebaltimoremarathon.com. Participants registering online will not pay a convenience fee this year. To receive an entry form by mail, contact Corrigan Sports Enterprises at 410-605-9381.