Seen On

Record Crowd Expected For Baltimore Marathon

BALTIMORE (WJZ) ― It will be quite a sight in the city Saturday as thousands of people will lace up their running shoes for the Eighth Annual Baltimore Marathon.

Ron Matz reports on the record crowd that is expected and one man whose race against the clock led to a change in his life.

They'll run through the streets of Baltimore.  Nearly 18,000 strong will take part in the Baltimore Marathon.  John Shafer, 38, a Type 1 diabetic and former pack-and-a-half day smoker, will be one of them.

"I was fearful, frightened of what would happen if I didn't take control of my life and make some good choices," said Shafer.  "Now running is my choice instead of doing anything that would endanger me."

Now a personal trainer, Shafer finds joy in helping others get fit.

"It's very rewarding and I'm sincere about it.  I know the feeling people get from just feeling better physically, so it's great.  I'm happy with my life."

Runners from all 50 states and 28 countries including China will take part in the race.  Among the marathon runners will be WJZ sports director Mark Viviano and reporter/anchor Mary Bubala.

"The fact that we're close to 18,000 people is remarkable with all the other marathons around this time of year," said Gene Brtalik of The Baltimore Running Festival.  "It just shows people from Maryland and people from all over are starting to catch onto what a great race this is."

The marathon starts at 8 a.m. and it covers 26.2 miles, so if you are driving in and around Charm City on Saturday, you can expect some disruptions.

(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)