Sunday, April 23, 2017 • Columbia, MDÂ
Nestled between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, the planned community of Columbia started on the idea that a city could improve quality of life. The planned community has worked out well, as it now ranks among the country’s best places to live and contributes to the economy of Howard County, the country’s second-wealthiest county.
Adding to this planned community is the Columbia Half Marathon, taking place each April and starting in the heart of downtown Columbia.
The half marathon begins and finishes at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Columbia, the course turns onto Little Patuxent Parkway around the Mall in Columbia. The course continues south onto Cedar Lane before turning left onto Hickory Ridge Road and south into the residential neighborhoods of Columbia.
After a turnaround onto Harriet Tubman Lane, the half marathon course weaves through the Hickory Ridge village, one of ten villages that make up Columbia. After a turn back onto Little Patuxent Parkway, the course continues along this road, retracing the first two miles until reaching the finish line.
Fun fact: many of the roads in Columbia are named after works of art and literature, as well as some historical figures. See how many figures you recognize.
Race Weather & Climate
Located in Maryland between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., Columbia usually experiences cool to mild weather in late April, with precipitation averaging just above 3.5 inches for the month.
On race day (Apr. 23), the average low is 41ºF and the average high is 68ºF.
Past Results
Starting Time
- 8:15 AM – half marathon
- 8:35 AM – 5K
Fees
- $55 – $95 for the half marathon
- $25 – $45 for the 5K
- $90 – $130 for the relay
Registration
To reserve your spot in the 2017 running of the Columbia Half Marathon, register online at ImAthlete.com here.
