Baltimore Half Marathon

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I spent the weekend in Baltimore for a wedding and stayed at my brother's house. On Sunday, the day after the wedding, he took my on a run from his place along most of the course for the Baltimore Half Marathon, which he ran this weekend.
Ted bombing downhill

For the past few years, my brother and dad have run both the Baltimore Half and then the Columbia Gorge Half, two weeks later. They always tell me that Baltimore is harder and hillier-- despite the fact that Columbia Gorge has 2,350 ft of elevation gain, and Baltimore has 312 (according to someone's MapMyRun info).

Don't stop for the next six blocks
After running the route, I can see why. Although the course map would make it look much easier, it feels awfully difficult. Part of that is the setting-- Columbia Gorge is in a beautiful, scenic area with fresh, piney air and mountain views. Baltimore goes through some of the worst neighborhoods in the city, dodging trash and drug deals. And the air was so muggy, humid, and filthy. Ugh!

Yes, "The Wire" was filmed here
Still, it was fun to finally run the route of this race my dad and brother do every year, and spend the time with my indomitable brother. Even if I did have to beg for a break after 7 miles and drink my own weight in water afterwards.

Urban wasteland

Graffiti Alley

Colorful bridge over a highway

Done and DONE

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