The History of BWC

The Baltimore Women’s Classic was created in 1976 by the Road Runners Club of America as the Women’s 10,000 meter, held in Lake Montebello and Herring Run Park. The race had 91 starters. Today, the Baltimore Women’s Classic is the second oldest all-women’s running event in the United States, and was Maryland’s first all-women’s running event, with thousands of women participating each year.

Women were not permitted in the Boston and NYC marathons until 1972. The first women’s Olympic marathon was held in 1984, and the first Women’s Track & Field Championships in 1982. The first iteration of the Baltimore Women’s Classic was a pioneering event in the sport for women. 

The second Baltimore Women’s 10,000 meters was held in Hunt Valley Industrial Park. In 1979, the race got its first proper name: the Lady Equitable. From there, the race has held many names, many indicating the sponsors over the years: the Lady Equitable, the Baltimore Ladies Classic, the Lady Avia, the Avon 5K. 

In 1997, the race was re-introduced as the Baltimore Women’s Classic 5K, but the name wouldn’t stick until 2003. Since then, the race has been known as the Baltimore Women’s Classic 5K. 

Although the race has existed since 1976, the race has had its fair share of challenges. Some years, participation was low. The race distance changed several times. Sponsorship changed hands many time, causing the race name to change. But throughout its history, the ethos has always been the same: Women of Baltimore proudly running together. 

Charm City Run is proud to celebrate the 50th Baltimore Women’s Classic 5K and honor its legacy for years to come. We thank MedStar Health and New Balance for their partnership, and can’t wait to see you at the start line!

Have a story about the BWC 5K (or any of its former names!)? We’d love to hear from you.