Three Cheers for Charles!

Let's hear it for Charles County, who have parlayed two new sports facilities --Regency Furniture Stadium and the Indian Head Rail Trail -- into a splendid new event.

The first annual Saint Charles Half Marathon, part of the United States Running Association Half Marathon Running Series, was created in partnership with the Charles County Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

It will take place April 17 and 18, 2010, starting with a fun run for kids on the Indian Head Rail Trail at 9 a.m. Saturday.  The 13 mile Indian Head Rail Trail, extending from Indian Head to Rt. 301 in White Plains, was completed last fall.  It quickly become a favorite of fitness buffs, nature lovers, and artists who delight in the magnificent scenery it offers.

On Saturday, the packet pickup and runners' expo will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Regency Furniture Stadium, home of the Blue Crabs and  popular year round community facility since its opening in 2008.

The main event,  a 13.1 mile run, will start at 8 a.m Sunday. The 5K run will begin at 8:15 a.m.

The 2010 USRA series includes 18 cities in middle size to small markets, with the first stop in Columbia, S.C.  The attraction of Charles County, in addition to its new facilities and fast growth market, is its proximity to Washington DC and its enthusiastic running community which is supporting the challenge.

The Hughesville Running Club is providing volunteers and race directors.  They look forward to welcoming regional runners for a trip through rural agricultural Maryland.  The locals are eager to show off their beautiful countryside, and entertain visitors at a post race party and festival at the finish line.

Kudos for Charles County's Department of Economic Development and Tourism for partnering with this national tour, giving Maryland the opportunity to show more people what we have to offer.