February 12, 2026

Dr. Frederica Banner (Freddie to her friends), the younger cousin of Bruce Banner (aka the Incredible Hulk), always wanted to be like her cousin. But she was a runner and not a super hero. However, she thought she could use what she learned from her cousin Bruce to create a formula to help her run faster.  After years of effort, Dr. Frederica stands proudly in front of a large beaker. It’s bubbling neon pink and labeled SPEED JUICE

“After years of finishing in the middle of the pack in every distance race, today is the day it all changes,” she proclaimed.  “I, Dr. Frederica Banner, have created this special potion to put me in position to be on the podium perpetually.” 

Freddie chugs the entire beaker in one cartoonish gulp. Her cheeks inflate like balloons. Her face grows a beard that explodes into a full Santa-length white mane.  Her lab coat rips off to reveal a t-shirt that reads I ❤️ THE BURN that’s now three sizes too small.  

Freddie (panicking but delighted) states, “This is fine… totally fine… just a minor side effect—WHY ARE MY KNUCKLES SNOW‑WHITE AND HAIRY?”

The transformation continues.  Her arms stretch like rubber hoses and fur sprouts out of every pore. She gains muscles on top of muscles.  As any good scientist would, she tries to take notes but her giant claws keep typing “ROOOAR” on the keyboard.  

Frederica, uppercuts the ceiling, blasting through the roof.  Landing outside, she rides a lab stool like a sled back to her house. 

There she looks in a mirror only to reveal she is not the speedster she had hoped. Instead Frederica has become a very cool and stylish Yeti.  "What's the Deal? I am so Freakin' BIG," she exclaims. "This is not what I expected."

She still has her running shoes on so maybe it will turn out for the best.  But that remains to be seen. 

TO BE CONTINUED...

FEBRUARY 9, 2026

HALF MARATHON- All Frederick Running Festival Half Marathon finishers score this classic, ultra-comfortable cotton crewneck sweatshirt! Featuring premium embroidery across the chest, this timeless design showcases Frederick Half Marathon front and center with a clean, elevated look you’ll actually want to wear long after race day.

TEAM RELAY & 5K- We’re thrilled to welcome New Balance as the official gear sponsor of this year’s event! Known for their commitment to performance, comfort, and style, New Balance is helping us elevate the race experience by providing every registered runner with an exclusive New Balance race shirt. 

MAY 26, 2025

Registration for the 2026 Frederick Running Festival is open NOW!  As a special bonus, the first 50 registrants the half-marathon can register for only $50.  

Even those who dont sign up within the first 50 registrants will be able to register at the lowest price available.  Take advange of the EARLY BIRD rates and sign up today!