Recently I've started running in preparation for a sprint triathlon. After running a short distance (about 1/2mi) I almost always get a nasty, almost stabbing cramp often on my left side just below my ribs. Any ideas what this is/how to prevent it? I don't have this problem with any other activity except running.

Here is some info I found.....

Cramps

Hi Jeff, this may sound stereotypical but this is a common one that you can usually "walk off" or just run through. It will become less of a problem with training. If you continue with this wonderful lifestyle, I recommend a book called "Healthy Runner's Handbook" by Lyle J. Micheli, MD (ISBN 0-8801-524-6) which covers prevention and treatment of common runner's injuries.
I'm very injury prone but just ran my second marathon yesterday, and will run my third in one month.
Cheers!
Mike

It's pretty normal, just run through it as mentioned. As you get used to the running the cramp will not show up.

Commonly known as a stich, I used to run in my youth when mists covered the earth and strange animals did roam.You will lose it as your training and stamina increases nothing to worry about just run through it

Pain is weakness leaving the body

Thanks for the advice and link guys!!! Now it's time to suck it up and pack on the miles

Nope, the stich doesn't feel nice at all.
You have probably started at too high a pace. Take it a bit easier, in the begining.
If you plan on being a long distance runner, it is very importaint to lean to keep a constant pace. Don't walk-run-walk-run. Keeping a constant pace and get a good running rythm is crusial.

Happy running

Yup, that be a stitch. One method of avoiding this, in additon to starting a bit slower, and buildiong speed as you go, is to focus on using your diaprham more to breathe.

Thanks for the tips guys!