It’s expected to have a significant impact on the local economy.
Frederick, Md (KM) More than 7,000 runners are expected to take part in the Frederick Running Festival the weekend of May 4th and 5th. That’s according to Lee Corrigan, the President of Corringan Sports Enterprises which is putting on the event. He says these runners represent 35 states, and Mexico and Canada. “Which is of course spells good things for everybody in Frederick,” says Corrigan. “Certainly, economic impact is one of the things that is so important to the people of Frederick, and additional charities’ money raised as well.”
The Frederick Running Festival will take place at the Frederick Fairgrounds. On Saturday, May 4th, there will be a number of activities; the Health and Fitness Expo; the Kids Fun Run; and the 5K run which is expected to bring in 2,000 runners, according to Corrigan.
The Half-Marathon takes place on Sunday, May 5th beginning at 7:00 AM. . Corrigan says the course this year is the same as last year. The starting line is located in front of the Fairgrounds on East Patrick Street. During their 13.1-mile race, runners will go through downtown Frederick, Baker Park, Hood College and the northern and eastern parts of the city. The finish line will be in front of the Grandstand.
He says there are advantages to having the same race course each year. “Certainly, everybody’s that’s putting up the cones and the mile makers, and those communities that we run through really understand when we’re coming through and what’s happening that day,” says Corrigan.
The Frederick Running Festival, in particular the half-marathon, has grown in popularity over the years, according to Corrigan. “The event has a wonderful reputation out there in the running market all over the country,” he says. “I think that is really what’s carrying the day. And, of course, Frederick folks come out and support the event. it’s always been well-supported out there in the course.”
He also says the Running Festival has an impact on the local economy. “We’re looking at over $3-million in economic impact this year once again. I’m sure that number will inch up as our total population of our runners increases. Of course that number goes up because it means more ‘heads in beds’ as the tourism people like to talk about,” says Corrigan.
By Kevin McManus