Quick question for runners

Question for experienced racers/runners:

I picked a half marathon that I wanted to run in October; the Baltimore Running Festival. The registration fee is $110. Keep in mind two things: I am cheap frugal and I am a newbie. It doesn't seem like this money is being donated to any non-profit organization. Is this standard? I wouldn't mind spending that kind of money if (at least a portion) was being donated to a non-profit but it seems as though this cost is going directly to the marathon organization which just seems excessive to this newbie runner.

Is this normal? Am I just being cheap? Should I just suck it up and purchase?