Hundreds Set To Gather For Third Annual Fort McHenry Tunnel Run And Walk
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- It's a runner's dream: a chance to run or walk under the waters of Baltimore's harbor.
On Sunday, hundreds will gather for the third annual Fort McHenry Tunnel Run and Walk, and as Ron Matz reports, it's all for a good cause.
You're now entering the Fort McHenry Tunnel -- on foot. Runners and walkers look forward to this unique event, now in its third year, hosted by the Maryland Transportation Authority.
"We use the right northbound tube of Interstate 95 through the Fort McHenry Tunnel. The left one will still be open for traffic. Traffic on Sunday morning is typically lighter so we won't have any impact on traffic and the folks coming through will be able to see the event," said Major Kevin Anderson, Commander of Special Operations of the MDTA Police. "We have our folks from operations making sure the highway's safe for us. We'll have a ton of law enforcement on hand to make sure security is at its height during this event to make sure the citizens are safe."
The 27 members of MDTA recruit class 44 will be there.
"It couldn't mean more to be part of this event. It's a great cause. It's something the department has always been heavily involved in. It's truly an honor to be a member of the department and to help contribute to the Special Olympics," said Anthony Pecoriello, President of Academy Class 44 of the MDTA police.
It's a neat place to be, and Sunday's Run and Walk benefits Special Olympics Maryland.
"We've played with this idea for a number of years. It's all about our friends at the MDTA police department. Through their diligence it occurred. Our athletes are such a wonderful group of folks we want to support and if we can do that and have fun at the same time it's a win-win for everybody," said Tom Schniedwind, Executive Vice President of Special Olympics Maryland. "It's to provide the running community and walking community with a unique opportunity. Where else can you walk on the bottom of the Baltimore harbor?"
You can still sign up for Sunday's Fort McHenry Tunnel Run and Walk. More than 1,000 people are expected.
"It's a traditional 5K run, but also a fun walk. Bring the family, come on out and have a good time and support Maryland Special Olympics," said Anderson.
"The tunnel is cleaned, the air is purified, it's just like you're running outside. With this cool weather coming up, it will be a wonderful run. It's a fun way to spend a great morning and support our athletes," said Schniedwind.
Last year's Fort McHenry Tunnel Run and Walk raised more than $50,000 for Special Olympics Maryland. For more information on how to sign up, click here.
