I ran the Charles Street 12 in 2014, its second year in existence. The race started in Towson Maryland, wound through the area of Towson University, and then followed Charles St. into Baltimore – when after a loop through Federal Hill the course brought you through the Inner Harbor to the finish at Powerplant Live!
The start area was large enough for plenty of room, the porta johns were plentiful. The start of the race was well organized and went off without a hitch. Although the race was heavily advertised as a downhill race, the hills started immediately and didn’t let up until the race reached Baltimore. There were few spectators, but there were plenty of runners around you at all times to keep you moving. Aid stations were available every 2-3 miles with water and Gatorade.
The finish line area was the best part of the race. After finishing you got a great race medal (and a second medal if you participated in the B3 series). There was a great spread of post-race food and each runner received two drink tickets (Miller light, I believe). The bars in the area were also open for brunch and drinks). There was a great band and people stuck around to have fun after the race.
The price was average for a Baltimore race, and the Under Armor premium (1/4 zip) was cute, comfortable, and functional for runners. I would do this race again in a heartbeat. In fact, after not doing it in 2015 it’s on my list for 2016 – unexpected hills and all.