With cooler fall temperatures setting in, some boaters might start thinking about winterizing their boats, and spending less time on the Bay. They’ll at least spend less time swimming in the Bay, so many people will be looking for another form of outdoor fall fitness. We’ve compiled a few events that will get you outside and along the Chesapeake Bay waterfront this autumn!
ShoreRivers’s Chester River Challenge
On October 28, during the Sultana Education Foundation’s Downrigging Weekend in Chestertown, MD, ShoreRivers is holding a 5K and half marathon with proceeds benefitting the Chester River Association. The course will take you down along the Chester River, where you will see the tall ships moored along the waterfront, and then up into some of Kent County’s beautiful countryside. Registration starts at 8 a.m. at Wilmer Park, with the race beginning at 9 a.m. Tickets are $25 for the 5K run/walk and $50 for the half marathon. Register at sultanaeducation.org.
Eastport vs. Annapolis Tug of War
On November 3, the Maritime Republic of Eastport faces off against the City of Annapolis for the 21st annual event. Billed as the longest International Tug of War over water in the world, this event was originally conceived by the residents of Eastport in 1997 when the City of Annapolis closed the Spa Creek Bridge, thus cutting off Eastport residents from the rest of the city. While the Spa Creek Bridge has since reopened, the Eastport-o-Ricans have yearly declared a symbolic War of Independence against The City of Annapolis lest anyone forget this dark period of Annapolis-Eastport relations. All funds raised by the Tug of War are distributed to various charitable organizations in the Annapolis area. Learn more at themre.org.
Across the Bay 10K
The only way to cross the Bay Bridge on foot! Just once a year, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge is closed to traffic and open exclusively to runners, joggers, and walkers. 4.35 miles of the 10 kilometer course takes place on the Bay Bridge, up to 186 feet in the air. The race will be held November 3 with a lively after-party near the finish line for runners, friends, and family. The celebration includes live music, great food, refreshing drinks, and family-friendly activities. All-you-can drink wristbands are available for $10. Individual runner registration is $70. Register at acrossthebay10k.com.
Annapolis Running Classic
Run a half marathon or 10K in Maryland’s historic capital city November 10. Start and finish at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium with a scenic course throughout historic Annapolis, including Main Street, Church Circle, and the City Dock waterfront. This event is just as famous for its lively after-party, which includes warming soup, oysters on the half shell, Blue Point Brewing Company craft beers, and live music from the Timmie Metz Band and Dublin 5. A portion of the proceeds goes back to charitable organizations in Annapolis. Registration fees through October 17 are $70 for the 10K and $105 for the half marathon (price increases after that. Register at annapolisrunningclassic.com.
Chartway Norfolk Harbor Half Marathon Weekend
November 17-18, head to Norfolk, VA, for this exciting two-day event that offers a half marathon, half marathon relay, 5K, and a Kids Mile. The half marathon takes runners through four of Norfolk’s neighborhoods, including downtown, through the Old Dominion University campus, and along the Elizabeth River Trail before finishing beside the Elizabeth River. Once you cross the finish line, a post-party is waiting at Town Point Park with live music, Blue Moon Brewing Co. beers, and Refuel Stew. If you’re feeling ambitious, the Get Nauti Challenge has competitors run the 5K on Saturday and the half marathon on Sunday. Registration is $25 for the kids mile, $110 for the relay, $100 for the half marathon, and $150 for the Get Nauti Challenge. Register at norfolkharborhalf.com.