2025 BRRC NCR Marathon & Half Marathon
The 36th NCR Marathon & Half Marathon takes place on Saturday, November 29, 2025, on the scenic Northern Central Railroad Trail (Torrey C. Brown Trail) in Sparks Glencoe, Maryland. As Baltimore's oldest continuously running USATF-certified marathon, this event features an out-and-back course through wooded terrain along Big Gunpowder Falls with a net downhill elevation change of 151 feet, making it an attractive option for Boston Marathon qualifiers. Late November in Sparks Glencoe typically brings cool autumn conditions, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (7-12°C), occasional morning frost, and possible light precipitation, so participants should prepare with layered clothing and weather-appropriate gear. The race begins and concludes at the Oldfields School campus, with the marathon starting at 8:30 AM and the half marathon at 9:00 AM, offering runners a well-organized experience with comprehensive support throughout the course.
What distances does the 2025 NCR Marathon & Half Marathon offer?
- →Marathon distance starting at 8:30 AM with a 6-hour time limit
- →Half Marathon distance starting at 9:00 AM with a 5.5-hour time limit
What is the course terrain and elevation profile?
The course is an out-and-back route along the Northern Central Railroad Trail (Torrey C. Brown Trail) that follows Big Gunpowder Falls through scenic wooded terrain. The course features a net downhill elevation change of 151 feet, making it favorable for runners seeking to qualify for the Boston Marathon.
What support is provided during the race?
- →Water stops positioned every 3–3.5 miles with Gatorade
- →Energy gels distributed at miles 7, 14, 16, and 20
- →Chip-timed race for accurate tracking
What do finishers receive?
All finishers receive a sweatshirt blanket and medal. All registrants also receive a fleece hoodie as part of their race package.
What are the race start times?
- →Marathon: 8:30 AM (6-hour time limit)
- →Half Marathon: 9:00 AM (5.5-hour time limit)
What awards are available?
Awards are presented for overall winners, masters category winners, and age group winners. The trophies feature unique railway-themed designs reflecting the event's historic trail location. A $150 prize is offered to any runner who breaks the marathon course record.
What are the current course records?
- →Open Men: Robert Marino (1995) – 2:25:18
- →Open Women: Joanna Zieger (1998) – 2:47:25
- →Masters Men: Patrick Blair (2024) – 2:33:58
- →Masters Women: Tracy Dzibela (2019) – 3:02:02
How much does registration cost?
- →Before July 1: Marathon $105, Half Marathon $95
- →July 5 – September 30: Marathon $125, Half Marathon $120
- →October 1 – November 25: Marathon $150, Half Marathon $140
- →BRRC members receive a $10 discount on all registration fees
Where is the event located?
The event starts and finishes at Oldfields School campus located at 1500 Glencoe Road, Sparks Glencoe, Maryland. The course follows the Northern Central Railroad Trail (Torrey C. Brown Trail) along Big Gunpowder Falls.
What weather should participants expect in late November?
Late November in Sparks Glencoe typically features cool autumn conditions with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (7-12°C). Runners should anticipate possible morning frost and occasional light precipitation. Layered clothing and weather-appropriate gear are recommended to manage changing conditions throughout the race.