May 13, 2025 by Darlene

2025 Tropicool 5k Race Recap

MAY 4, 2025

As you may remember, this race took place during my annual non-running tennis vacation in Naples, Florida. I play tennis every morning and then spend the afternoon on the beach. Each evening I go out for drinks, dinner and dessert with my tennis friends. Eight days of pure relaxation and enjoyment… (every May since 2005)

I love it. It’s usually my only vacation that doesn’t include a race. You have to admit that racing during a vacation does add an element of stress.

Well, in 2017. we changed our dates and I happened upon a 5k race that took place on the Sunday during our stay. One of my friends offered to get up at the crack of dawn and drop me off and another offered to pick me up.

Despite the loops and warm temps, I had a blast and did fairly well.

I also unexpectedly bumped into a tennis friend, Rebecca, who had moved to Naples.

As a result, I signed up for the same 5k in 2018 and 2019. I won an age group award each time and met up with Rebecca.

Our vacation was cancelled due to COVID in 2020 and the race in 2021 did not occur during our time in Naples.

So I was pretty excited to run this race again in 2022. The downside was that Rebecca died suddenly in 2021 and I knew that the race would remind me of her sadly.

I decided to run the race anyway and each year, if I was able, in Rebecca’s honor.

and yes, again I won an age group award

However since I was still recovering from a broken foot, I decided to skip the race in 2023 but last year, I put it back on my racing schedule.

another age group award for a course PW

After I signed up for this race, I got an email saying that they had to change the course. I could have gotten a refund. But what the hell. A new race!

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

The night before the race, we went out to an awesome dinner at a Peruvian Restaurant. No pizza or pasta on the menu so I had to skip the obligatory carb loading before a race.

Here is the NEW course map:

Apparently, it is the same course as the Baker Park 5k held in March every year.

Rather than being near the Beaches of the Gulf, it is along the Gordon River.

Of course, I checked out last year’s results:

Anyone look familiar??

at least, there’s hope for me here…

Race Day:

Sunday morning, I groggily ate my usual race breakfast at 5:30 am. As she did in previous years, my friend Catalina agreed to drop me off at the race start. I wasn’t familiar with the race location so I needed to arrive earlier than normal.

There was no packet pick up before the race. So I got my bib on race day. The swag was a shirt. And I had to hide it under a tree since I did have a bag or a car.

Since I was early, I walked around…. this was a really beautiful park… very conducive to running, walking, biking…

This was not a big race. There were about 275 runners – all ages and very friendly.

It was pretty cloudy when I got there and rain was forecast. At times, the sun did peak out. It was starting to get warm. I checked the weather app on my phone. Holy humidity!

I wore my usual race attire minus the compression socks:

As you can see from the map, the course winds the park and loops back toward the start.

pretty flat except for the bridges over the river

I had no plan for the race – just finish and get back to my friends so we could continue with our plans for the day. (Gone are the days when I finished this race in 27:xx!!)

I also haven’t raced in weather this warm since last August. This made me a little nervous. Can I run well in the heat/humidity? Will I die? LOL

I had no idea what the course looked like until after the race but I did take some photos before the race on what turned out to be part of the race course:

Mile 1:

the lady on the right was in my age group and finished a few seconds after me.

From the get go, my legs felt like lead but my biggest problem was that I had a hard time breathing and I felt dizzy. Was it the heat? Most likely it was not being acclimated to the humidity. I couldn’t wait to get to the water stop…

Actually I could not wait to walk…

Mile 2:

It seemed like forever but I think it was during mile 2. I stopped for water and walked for a while (longer than the first walk).

I continued my running which was painful and seemed to be like a slog…

As I mentioned above, the course ran through the park and it was very pretty. It was a mixture of flat paths and wooden bridges over the river..

I walked whenever I felt I had to… I really didn’t care about my time as long as I finished.

Mile 3 – 3.1:

I actually felt worse after walking so I ran and tried to just get to the finish line without puking.

Eventually the arch appeared and I gave it my all.

I was shocked when I crossed at 31:xx. I felt so much slower.

Post Race Activities:

I grabbed some water but skipped the refreshments which were only bars, bananas and navel oranges.

I quickly checked the results to see if I won an award. And I did!!

first!

My friend Pat came to pick me up. She walked around the park while I waited for the award ceremony.

I was happy that they started with the oldest age groups first.

Additional Race Reflections:

Definitely a tough one and again one of my slower 5ks but hey, I did it.

And I will do it again!

Racing for me is always enjoyable (at least afterward.)

Positives:

flatish course
well organized
ample parking
nice shirt (gender-specific)
Instant results emailed/texted to runners
creative age group award (picture frame)
important charity (scholarships to HS students)
Nice park
River views
Real rest rooms

Negatives:

Rebecca was no longer there. 😦
Warm temps and humidity
Not near the ocean

Would I recommend this race?

Yes! There was a lot of enthusiasm and runners of all ages.

Final Stats:

Next Up:

3.5 fun miles

and then:

10 miles – 5/25/25

Happy Running! Ever run a 5K race while on vacation? Do you find it hard to race in the hot weather? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

May 10, 2025 by Darlene

Two Week Weekly Run Down: 4.27.25-5.3.25 and 5.4.25-5.11.25: Work Travel and Vacation Travel..

First NYC and then Naples, Florida!

First work and then fun!

Two Weeks Ago –

Sunday – Since I had not done the extra miles I had planned after the rainy 5k the day before, I decided that instead of the gym, to go for a short run.

My ulterior motive was to see if any if the tulips had bloomed yet in Washington Park.

most had not but there were quite a few beautiful ones that had …. Tulip fest is May 10-11

I continued my run/walk around the park and spotted some cherry blossoms.

obviously they bloom much later up here.

I then spent most of the day getting ready for two different trips. Cooking countless meals for my hubby and packing!!

Monday – I took an early morning train to NYC. Once I arrived at Penn Sta, the plan was for a blogger meet-up.

Yes, Catrina, after her fantastic Boston marathon experience, with her hubby rented a house on LI. They drove into Manhattan and met me at Starbucks. Cari joined us, as well.

so fun to meet in person and chat

Afterward, I checked into my hotel and filled my day with some fun activities.

I ran to Rockefeller Center

and then took the subway to the Conservatory Gardens of Central Park…

So lovely…many more pics on FB & IG

I ran around nearby Harlem Meer, had lunch and ran some more around Central Park.

Eventually I took the subway back and visited Macys.

Flower Show time

In the evening, I went to a Broadway Show and then walked back to my hotel after..

I try to make the most out of my non-work time in NYC.

Tuesday – Work in the Financial District (in a new location).

After work, I took the subway back to my hotel and changed my clothes. I had thought I would have enough time to run but decided instead to go the Hudson Yards mall to see the Downton Abbey mannequins.

all the TV show’s characters were there and made out of flowers!!

After, I took the subway uptown to meet a local friend for dinner.

Wednesday – Work again in the Financial District, subway back to the hotel for my bag and then the train home.
Thursday – Early morning fight to Ft. Myers, FL (with a connection in Philly). NO FLIGHT DRAMA!

Once we arrived and got our luggage, we picked up rental cars and headed to Naples for lunch and then checked into our villas (the same ones we rent each year.)

We spent the rest of day relaxing at the pool, grocery shopping and unpacking.

Friday – First Florida run while the others were taking a tennis lesson.

When they were done, I joined them for some doubles (Grateful that they allowed this rusty player on the court.)

After tennis, we packed a lunch and headed to the beach. And after the beach, we had a lovely dinner out.

Saturday – Pretty much the same as Friday but a different beach and a Peruvian restaurant for dinner.

Last Week –

Sunday – Tropicool 5k.

Although I’ve run this race before, this year, they changed the location. It was held in Baker Park.

I was pooped from all that activity the day before but I can never resist a race.

It was warm and very humid but I was glad that I did it.

and I even won my age group

We had two newbies on our trip this year so we planned a trolley tour of the city instead of tennis and the beach.

That was perfect since it did rain!

Tonight we went to a dinner theater in Ft. Myers.

Monday – Another day of a short run, tennis and the beach.

But instead of going out, since it was book club night, we ate at the pool and had a lively discussion of the book, The Most..

Back in 2005, when we started this annual vacation in Naples, we went to The Dock restaurant and took a group photo. After our book discussion, we headed there for dessert/drinks.

Tuesday – More of the same… run, tennis, beach, delicious dinner out (with a birthday dessert)…

Wednesday – Last full day of vacation. In addition to our usual activities, tonight we went on sunset cruise…

Thursday – Last Florida run.

And we said good-bye to the lady who our rented us these villas for 20 years!!

I mentioned above that there was no flight drama on the way here.

I can’t say the same about the way home…

We left around 11:30am for the airport and waited several hours there while they fixed our plane. We would have missed our Philly connection so we changed to flying thru Charlotte.

Well, there were thunderstorms in Charlotte and our flight didn’t take off until 1am!!!

Yup, I got home around 3:30am. 😦

Friday – MY BIRTHDAY!

And it poured all day.

I had plans with a friend to visit the gardens at Naumkeag in Stockbridge, MA, followed by retail therapy at our favorite consignment shop and then out for ice cream. In the evening, I was going to be playing mah jongg.

My friend cancelled and mah jongg was a no go, as well. My hubby made plans to go to a tennis party (since I was busy).

of course, I was getting my free drink no matter what...

My choice was staying home, unpacking and doing laundry or… going by myself in the rain.

It was wet but I’m glad I went and they gave me a dozen tulips as a gift. I did skip the ice cream and instead went out to dinner with that friend when I got home.

Saturday – Long Run and Brunch.

The past two weekends, I had only run a 5k race and my runs on vacation were only a mile or two. I was lucky to have company to drag me though 6 miles. At least, the rain had stopped.

I finally did that laundry and went to dinner to celebrate my birthday with my hubby, stepson, his wife and daughter.

Sunday – Mother’s Day.

I plan to go to the gym and then to visit my MIL.

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – run, walk with a friend
Tuesday – gym, walk
Wednesday – TC run (week 8)
Thursday – CDPHP Workforce Challenge (3.5M)
Friday – gym, mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run and Brunch
Sunday – gym

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Tropicool 5k Race Recap
Friday – 5 Tips for Building Mental Toughness

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this spring? How’s the weather? Are you having a lot of rain? Any vacations planned? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.

May 2, 2025 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date for May 2025

It’s that time of the month…

time to join up with Coco & Deborah for their ultimate coffee date.

1.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I left for my annual tennis vacation In Naples, Fla. yesterday.

You may remember that I’ve gone on this trip every May (except 2020) since 2005.

I used to play tennis a lot before I became a runner but I still love spending time with these lifelong friends.

And I do plan to pick up a racket during this trip.

2. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that it will be bittersweet since one of the group died of cancer this past fall.

She’s in yellow in the photo above…

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that of course, there will be a race involved. They had to choose a new location this year. So I guess I can call it a new race.

last year’s Tropicool 5k award

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I will also, while the group is taking tennis lessons, get out early each day to run a few miles.

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that this year’s book discussion group is The Most. Have you read it?

The Most,' by Jessica Anthony is a dark take on middle-class malaise - The Washington Post

Happy Running! What’s new with you? Please share.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and the Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

April 29, 2025 by Darlene

2025 Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k Race Recap

April 26, 2025 – 10:00 am

Every year, I plan to sign up for the 10k and then I chicken out.

10K

I know that the hills would be good training but… the 5k is an out and back and mostly flat.

5k – but not as flat as it looks (some rolling hills)

Then last year, I did run the 10K.

Oy! Those hills!!

So this year, I returned to the 5k. 🙂

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

This small race in the country has always been one of my favorite races. I have run it for the five years straight (2013-18) and enjoyed it each time. I was out of town in 2019 and it was cancelled in 2020. But I ran it again in 2021 and as a I said above, last year, I ran the 10k.

It was always well-organized and had great food – the usual food but also chili and homemade muffins & cookies (including gluten free ones).

And there was chocolate milk, fresh from the dairy. (You know how I LOVE chocolate milk post-race.)

Plus, I also have won a homemade pie as first in my age group every year. 28:56, 28:01, 27:54, 27:32, 27:01, 28:30. Yes, it seems that I was pretty fast but that was then and this is now.

Lately I don’t feel very fast. In fact, I was highly doubtful that I could finish under 30 minutes. I was expecting (but not in a bad way), a course PW, maybe even a 5k PW.

Packet pick-up was the night before. But since I lived so far away, I planned to pick mine up the morning of the race.

Again the weather was tricky. What to wear? I was brave the first two years and wore a skirt, a baseball cap and no gloves. It was April, right? Then the next three years, it was cold and I resorted to capris. In 2021, they moved the race to May so I was able to return to the skirt on a very hot day.

This year since the race was back in April, but (this seems to be a trend) RAIN was predicted.

No cold temps but no sun with rain and wind meant capris instead of a skirt, a jacket, arm warmers…?

Of course, I had pizza for my race carb loading (yes I carb load even for 5ks. lol)

Race Day:

The race started at 10 am which was great since it would be an hour drive from my house.

After my race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee, I left my house around 8:15 am. It was raining lightly.

I got to the race early (around 9:15 am) and found a parking spot in a MUDDY grassy field next to the church. The race started at the church in the town of Bacon Hill, a small farming town with awesome scenery. (It reminded me of Vermont.)

some of these pics are from other years…everything still looked the same)

So as soon as I arrived, I picked up my shirt and bib.

We were also given a ticket to enter to win the many raffle prizes.) Then I went back to my car to drop off my shirt.

I wasn’t sure that I would know anyone at this race since most of the runners that I know were running a local 10k.

Of course, it started to rain harder. There were tents and many runners waited inside the church.

But I did bump into a few runners that I knew and we hung out chatting.

There was music playing and a little over 160 runners. Much fewer than usual because there was a virtual option for both the 5k and 10kand the WEATHER.

Eventually at 9:45, they directed us to the start. No corrals and I wasn’t sure if it were chip timed so I didn’t start too far back.

I ditched my umbrella but it was raining so I kept on my jacket (with arm sleeves under it).

Miles 1-1.5

The pastor read a prayer, the church bells rang and we were off.

The 5k was an out and back. We started with the 10k runners but they looped around and then veered off onto a very hilly route.

I decided to go out fast. I always have positive splits so why try not to. Unfortunately my fast now is not what it used to be (to some I was never fast and to others, I still am fast. Remember pace is so individual.)

However, Because I am now used to only running 60-90 seconds at a time, I was out of breath very quickly. I wasn’t even able to run the whole first mile.

And although it was raining, harder and harder, it was humid. I had to stop and rake off my jacket and tie it around my waist.

The course wasn’t as flat as the map showed. The hills were rolling throughout but not that bad for the first half.

There used to be so many the signs along the route. Many of them were riddles. They were a nice distraction. This year, I only noticed a couple (maybe due to the rain?)

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This one was my favorite:

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My legs really protested my attempt for speed. There were mile markers and a few scattered volunteers with umbrellas cheering on the runners. But very few spectators due to the miserable weather.

A little past the one mile marker, there was a water stop. I walked for a while (too long) here since I was thirsty. I even took of my DIY arm sleeves.

Mile 1.5-3.1:

Eventually we turned around and headed back…. I realized quickly that I had gone out too fast (and it wasn’t even fast.) I could not keep up that pace. (I was wearing my Garmin but I never looked at it until the race was over.)

I continued running but added in lots of walks. The wind was blowing at us now and the rain pelted my face. My clothes and shoes were getting soggier and soggier. Although there didn’t seem to be downhills on the way out, now there appeared to be many uphills. Yes, I walked them.

Finally there was one mile to go and I couldn’t wait to finish and get that chocolate milk. And get out of the pouring rain!!

As I approached the finish line, I sprinted as fast as I could (and stopped my watch.)

The clock said: 31:xx. A big course PW but I was happily surprised at my time (considering how much walking I did.)

Post-Race Activities

I immediately made a bee line for the chocolate milk.

There was a lot of refreshments (3 kinds of chili, pastries, fruit, etc.) More food than there were runners. We were encouraged to take extras.

I didn’t have to wait long before they announced the raffle prize winners (not I) and the awards.

Yes, it was worth the hour drive. I won a pie!

I chose cherry over apple

I waited a bit for the rain to let up but it obviously wasn’t going to so I headed back to my car.

In past years, I ran more miles because the 10k route (though hilly) was very scenic.

And I would stop by Kings Dairy for some homemade ice cream.

Not today!

Additional Race Reflections:

Positives:

5k and 10k options
Ample parking.
Well marked course.
Beautiful countryside scenery
Chocolate milk.
Chili and homemade goodies as post-race refreshments.
Super friendly volunteers.
Virtual option.
Raffle prizes.
Pie, ice cream gift certificate, cookies as age group awards.

Negatives:

Late start time.
RAIN!
Lack of speed work (my fault).

Would I recommend this race?

Yes.

It was super well-organized. Special attention was paid to EVERY detail.

Final Stats:

But I was thrilled with my time. But I wasn’t expecting much. I did exactly what I had planned. Just run. I definitely think I could have run faster. But there didn’t seem to be a reason to. When I was winded, I walked. I was just running for me (and the PIE) and because it makes me feel good to race.

All in all, I loved this race. I will definitely do it again…maybe even the 10k again.

Next Up:

Another 5k.

Happy Running! Did you run or race this past weekend? How do feel about racing in the rain? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

April 26, 2025 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 4.20.25-4.27.25: Finally a 5k (in the rain)!

Yesterday I ran a 5k. In.The.Rain.

I think it was the first one since last Fall.

Oct. 5, 2024

Last Week –

Sunday –

Unfortunately the gym was closed.

The hubby & I went out to a lovely dinner with my SIL and then after dinner, we had dessert at my MIL’s with other family members.

Monday – Back to WFH this week so I able to go to the gym before work and get my run done at lunch..

discovered a stable nearby but boy was it windy!!

It was hard to concentrate on work since I was busy tracking the Boston marathon

Congrats to Keep On Running blogger!!

and then I met my BFF for a walk after work.

Tuesday – Another WFH day so I started it again at the gym…

and after work, I had a hair appt.

Wednesday – It is hard to leave when my cats like lap time in the morning…

But I did get to the gym again.

Today was the 5th week of mentoring the Training Challenge group. I always try to arrive a little early to add some running before the group arrives.

actually 4 mentors and 2 runners – crazy but we did 90:60 intervals and almost 3 miles…

Thursday – With a dentist appt. before work and a dinner out with my tennis friends planned for after work, that meant that I had to squeeze in my run sometime during the day. I wound up having time after my dental appt. (which happens to be near the rail trail.)

drizzly at first but then it warmed up when the sun came out and we almost have bathrooms and leaves on the tress!!

We decided on Hibachi and as always, a fun time.

Friday – Trying to frontload in some daily gym visits since I won’t be going for the next two weeks.

I snuck out at lunch and met a running friend for a walk (as she recently retired.)

We walked to that stable that I discovered during my Monday run

In the evening, I played mah jongg.

Saturday – Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k.

I’ve run this race many times in the past. I love the country atmosphere, the fresh chocolate milk and the pie (as an age group award).

With 3 half marathons in 3 months and zero speed work… I wasn’t confident in a speedy finish time (or a pie) but I was excited to do the race regardless (even though rain was predicted…)

Well, it rained all night and then it was still raining lightly when I got up. It was an hour drive, I seriously thought that it was crazy to drive that distance to get soaked.

But I decided not to wimp out and did it along with many other crazy runners. (At least I only signed up for the 5k, not the 10k).

And it POURED but I DID WIN THAT PIE!

Of course, later in the day, the sun came out… then it rained again but finally it stopped and I was able to get out for a walk

lots of magnolias in bloom at the Pine Hollow Arboretum

Sending positive vibes to Jenny as she was running her first 50 mile race!!! I spotted these pics on FB.

Sunday – I plan on gym time (or the long run that didn’t happen the day before) and packing for two upcoming trips!!

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – early train to NYC (for work), blogger meet-up, run & other assorted NYC activities
Tuesday – work, run?, dinner with a local friend
Wednesday – work, train home, finish packing
Thursday – early flight to Ft Myers, FL for annual Naples Tennis vacation
Friday – run, tennis
Saturday – walk, tennis
Sunday – Tropicool 5K

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k Race Recap
Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this winter? How’s the weather? Did you watch the Boston Marathon or track any runners? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

April 25, 2025 by Darlene

Runfessions for April 2025

It’s that time again. Time to get things off my chest with Marcia’s Runfessions at Marcia’s Healthy Slice…

1.I runfess…

I am pretty dedicated to my running schedule but when sickness and weather derailed my plans two Saturdays in a row, even my friend noticed and posted this in FB:

I think Darlene S. Cardillo has been hacked. Don’t think I’ve ever heard her say something like this

2. I runfess…

I hate to take running breaks because it is so hard to get back on track.

3. I runfess…

I really enjoy mentoring new runners but this also affects my own running.

I plan to try to run some miles before the group meets each Wednesday at 6 pm.

4. I runfess…

Even when I complain about my slow finish times, I still enjoy the challenge of completing a half marathon.

73 completed (including a few Pandemic virtuals).

Do I go for 100? LOL.

5. I runfess…

Speaking of slow finish times, my first tw0 half marathons this year were run with paces that were may be slower than my marathon.

For the 3rd half, I wanted to finish under 2:27 and if I didn’t, I might consider running another in May. I have run this race twice already but it is on its third different course.

now an out and back on the bike path in MA.

Phew. No pressure now!!

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? Please share.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

April 22, 2025 by Darlene

2025 Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon Race Recap

It seems like I’ve been planning this race forever. As with all my big races, I impulsively sign up way in advance (and then often regret it LOL).

I ran the first annual one in 2019. Due to COVID, in 2020, I ran the race virtually and in 2021, however, I ran it on a completely different course (a hilly one). I ran it again on its current course in 2022 and then in 2023, I was recovering from a broken foot so I had to skip it and volunteered at the finish line instead. But then last year, I ran it one more time.

: 2019 – First H2H HM

: 2020 – Virtual H2H HM

: 2021- H2M HM (on a revised course)

: 2022 – Second H2H HM

: 2024 – 3rd H2H HM

So I signed up for 2025 Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon as my 73rd Half Marathon for several reasons:

FOMO. Many of my racing/running friends were doing it.
It’s local. I can sleep in my own bed.
I am familiar with the course. I run on it often.
It’s a downhill course. (470 ft. elevation loss)
It was part 2 of a 3 race challenge.
I ran one just a month ago (so sorta trained.)

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. I ran my last half marathon on March 15 in Washington DC.

On weekdays, I tried to run 3x a week…sometimes it happened, sometimes it didn’t (and usually only 3 miles). This past week, I only ran twice since I had raced on Sunday.

And then on the weekends, I schedule my long run. This training cycle, I didn’t get the 10, 11 and 12 milers done that I had planned to do in order to prepare for this race. Work, weather, work, weather, illness, etc…

: Delmar Dash 5m

I was counting on some muscle memory from the 13.1 miles that I completed 4 weeks prior.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Deb picked up my bib (and Barbara’s) on Friday at the race finish.

As usual I ate pizza for dinner.

I checked the weather and it looked lousy!! Snow… then rain.. and cold!

So what do I wear?

Similar to what I wore to the March 10k with an added throw away and rain poncho since the weather hasn’t improved much.

no sunglasses needed this time…

Race goals?

Also the same as usual. Finish happy with no injuries. I have realized that having a time goal is difficult at my age. Having any expectations of a PR or even a course PR is unrealistic, as well.

thumbs up in 2019 as my 2:11 finish time qualified me for the 2020 NYC Half Marathon & Marathon.

again a successful 2:12 finish in 2022

That being said, since this race did not have the hills of DC or the heat of Florida, I was hoping to have a faster finish time than my last two half marathons … but again, anything can happen on race day.

Race Day:

Since I had run this race before, I was familiar with the start and finish logistics. But they still were tricky. There was a bus from the finish to the start (and no parking at the start). However this year, I knew when to get there and where to find nearby parking. Over 2,000 runners had signed up for this race!!!

Well, I woke up to 35 degrees and SNOW!!

I kept my original race outfit added a throwaway jacket, rain poncho, extra pair of gloves, umbrella and dry clothes for after. I decided against bag check since we planned to park near the finish.

I met Barbara and Deb at 6:15am to carpool, We arrived around 6:30 am, found parking in the lot near the finish and then we walked to the bus.

There were so many busses and as soon as one was filled, it left.

from inside the bus

We arrived around 7:15 am and the race did not start until 8:30. (A long time to wait when it’s miserable outside!)

There were so many familiar faces.. from former running groups, training groups, other races, etc.. All arriving and seeking shelter from the weather.

It was snowing and we were freezing!!

So we waited in a dugout (trying to stay dry).

Eventually, it was time to enter the start area. I ditched my umbrella, poncho, a pair of wet gloves and my throwaway jacket.

We entered near the back and waited (in a pool of mud!!)

Here are some posted pictures of the beginning of the race:

Anyway, here’s how the race went:

Course Map:

from my Garmin

Miles 1-5:

The course started in the park and then we ran just over 2 miles on the roads of Voorheesville so runners could spread out before they got on the rail trail.

There were a few steep downhill sections but it was very crowded and slippery in places so this helped me not start out too fast.

From there, the course headed east for about 9 miles into Albany on the rail trail. If you read my blog, you may remember that this is a trail near my home and that I run on often. It was nice to only have to run on it one way…going downhill. It was not steep and I was able to run at a comfortable pace.

The problem was that my lower back ached (from sitting at the computer ALL week?), I am used to only running for 90 seconds at a time and the snow was blowing into my eyes.

As per my plan, I walked at each water stop. I think there were 2 in the first 3 miles. And after the first mile, I walked for a few seconds whenever I was tired.

There were clocks at each 5k (but that showed the time based on when the first runners started). However, my Garmin did notify me of my splits. So I knew that I was running slow and in the comfortable 11ish per mile range.

My breakfast was at 5:15 am so I was getting pretty hungry. Eventually around mile 4, I ate my first GU.

Although it was snowing/ sleeting, I was getting warm so I tied my jacket around my waist (it wasn’t waterproof anyway) and took off my wet gloves.

The great thing about a local race was the crowd support and volunteers. Many called my name (since it was on my bib) and it was so welcome. I was surprised how many showed up in this weather!

Here are a few pictures from previous runs on this same trail when the weather was obviously nicer than today):

Miles 6-9:

So the race continued on this same trail. The elevation felt a little steeper on this portion and my legs felt more and more tired. Or should I say my quads were complaining from running downhill. Finally around mile 6 or 7, there was the water stop. I walked even longer than at previous ones.

At the 10k clock, it was obvious that I slowed but not much (since I had been running slow from the start).

What was nice about this race was that I knew so many of the runners. They kept passing me by. Some just waved, others slowed and ran with me for a while. I also recognized some former work colleagues and some running friends who were not running the race and they cheered me on.

I wish that I hadn’t taken off my gloves because it seemed to be getting colder and the snow had changed to rain. (My hands were numb by the end of the race.)

I walked (too long) at the next water stop around mile 8 and ate my second GU.

another cool FB pic

More pictures from previous runs:

Believe or not, no blisters from those wet socks/shoes but by the 15k point, my neuroma started to throb and that continued until the end of the race. (At least I had almost 10 pain-free miles on that foot. LOL)

smiling for the photographer

Miles 10-13.1

The rail trail finally ended and we were heading into Albany. This was my least favorite apart of the course – not scenic at all – running through the city (and not the nice part) and then along a busy road.

I was toast at this point. I just wanted to be done.

A few more water stops and longer walks. One last GU.

The clock at the 20k mark indicated that surprisingly I was still having a decent race (not PR decent but faster than my last two).

The last few miles seemed endless. It was no longer downhill. In fact going to the finish line was slightly uphill.

I walked a few more times and tried as best as I could to sprint through the finish.

I saw the clock ahead and I hoped to finish under 2:30…and I did!!

Post Race Activities:

I got my medal and some water.

Barbara had finished before me but she waited. It was too cold to take any pictures.

Pictures from last year (nicer weather. sigh!):

There was FREE Ice Cream and free beer. And a band playing music, food trucks, other info booths with freebies but we were FREEZING!

We just proceeded to the refreshments…

There was the usual food box for this race and chocolate milk.

Barb and I headed back to her car where she turned on the heat, I changed into dry clothes and we waited for Deb to finish.

Then we met other running friends for a celebratory brunch.

Final Stats:

probably the most even that I’ve ever run in a half

yeah, too much walking for a downhill race..

Additional Race Reflections:

Well, again when you’re my age, you just have to show up.

2nd place!!

My finish time was way faster than my previous two half marathons this year but this course was downhill and many PRs were earned. (FL- 2:39:25, DC -3:01:03). And it was slower than last year on this same course (2:21:44)…

In 2019, I wanted a sub 2:12 finish so I would qualify for the 2020 NYC Half Marathon. And I did!!

This year, I had no glorious expectations. I just wanted to finish. And I did!

As you can see from the stats above, my lack of training caught up to me after Mile 10 (or maybe it was my foot.)

I have confirmed that downhill races aren’t as easy as you may think. Rolling hills are actually easier on the body. (We runners are never satisfied.)

My quads were sore for a day or two. No injuries. So very happy!

The Good:

Lots of race info emailed and on website including runner guide and spectator guide.
Easy packet pick-up. Neat race-related items.
Registration options – cheaper without a shirt or hoodie.
Part of a 3 race challenge
Free bus from the finish to the start.
Many porta potties at the start. Long lines but they moved quickly
Bag Check. Well organized before and easy pick up at the end
Downhill course (except for first and last 2 miles)
Water and Nuun stops.
Decent crowd support
Well marked course for each mile
Clocks at 5k, 10k, 15k, 20k
Very cool medal.
Great post race refreshments
Immediate electronic race results
PR and Finish bell
Free photos
Nearby – no transportation or hotel costs.
Support from friends

FB pic of the finish (Hudson R.) – not this year, obviously

The Bad:

The weather.
The boring, unscenic last 2 miles.

The Ugly:

Too cold to enjoy post race activities.
Too much time waiting in the cold before he race.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes. ARE did a fantastic job attending to every detail. I may even do it again next year. The weather has to be better, right?

Next Up:

A few shorter races.

Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k – April 26
Tropicool 5k – May 4
CDPHP Workforce Challenge (3.5 m) – May 15

Happy Running! Did you race this weekend? Do you have a big race coming up? Have yu ever run a race in such weather as this? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

April 19, 2025 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 4.13.25-4.21.25: It was supposed to be a Quiet Week…

No races.

No travel.

Yay!

Then on Tuesday, I was told that I had to get to NYC and sub in Jamaica Queens on Wednesday and Thursday. Oy!

I had to quickly make train and hotel reservations and pack.

Oh and cancel chiro appt and dinner with former colleague on Tuesday, cancel race/mentoring on Wednesday and finally cancel a meetup with running friend up from Florida on Thursday.

On another note, did you all get on the AI Barbie bandwagon?

Last Week –

Sunday – A Rest Day after the half marathon the day before. I was supposed to meet up with a running friend that I hadn’t seen for in a while but she had to cancel. Instead I got a lot done around the house as well as some errands.

Monday – DAY OFF! I started at the gym and then I met the Training Challenge group for a run/walk in the afternoon.

many more runners than in my Wednesday group

Since it was so nice out, I decided to go for a mini hike up at Thacher Park…

many of the trails were closed but the water was flowing…

After because my granddaughter wouldn’t be around for Easter, I stopped by to give her a few gifts.

she loves to color…

Finally, I finished and filed my TAXES! $$$$ 😦

Tuesday – WFH today so after I got ready for my unscheduled work trip, I went for a short run in the neighborhood (before it started to rain.)

just a few signs of spring and warm temps…

Then I took the train to Manhattan, checked into my hotel and hopped on the subway to the upper westside to see some tulips.

just the early blooms but lovely anyway… (more pics on IG& FB)

It was so nice out that I decided to head back by walking through Central Park.

lots of runners so FOMO

As I always do, I contacted Cari and we were able to meet and have dinner together.

Finally I walked all the way back to my hotel.

Phew. What a day!

Wednesday – Today was the 4th week of mentoring the Training Challenge group. Instead of our normal location, we were meeting at Siena College to participate in a free 1.5 mile race.

Unfortunately I was working in NYC.

After a long day on the feet, I took the subway back to my hotel.

I wanted to run but since I visited Central Park the day before, I wasn’t sure where to go. It was chilly again and very windy so I bagged the run and was just going to meet a college friend for dinner.

Well, she had to cancel so I took the subway downtown and walked along the East River with a stop for some “pink” at Pier 15.

Thursday – Day 2 working in Jamaica Queens.

And afterward I headed back to my hotel and then home on the train.

Friday – WFH so I was able to get to the gym at lunch.

After work, I had a quick visit with the running friend that I was supposed to see on Thursday night.

Then I had rush home to clean since it was my turn to host mah jongg that evening.

Saturday – Long Run and Brunch. Fingers crossed that it wouldn’t rain for once on a Saturday.

So all if a sudden it was summer. I think we skipped spring. Warm and HUMID with showers on the way.

I was able to get some miles done with friends and then meet the walkers for brunch/chatting.

2 solo run/walk miles, 3 with Barbara and then 3 speed drill miles…

And it didn’t rain until we were having brunch.

Sunday – Easter Sunday.

The hubby and I plan to out to dinner with my SIL and then have dessert after with the rest of family at my MIL’s.

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – run, walk with BFF
Tuesday – gym, hair appt.
Wednesday – run, mentor the TC
Thursday – run, dinner with tennis friends
Friday – gym, mah jongg
Saturday – Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k + more miles
Sunday – gym, pack for NYC and FLORIDA!

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon Race Recap
Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this spring? How’s the weather? Any warm temps yet? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

April 18, 2025 by Darlene

FFF: Why I’m Not Running the NYC Marathon

Are you dreaming of running... - TCS New York City Marathon | Facebook

or 2026 NYC Marathon?

Enter the lottery. (Over 200,000 applied this year and only 2% got accepted.)
Run 9 NYRR races and volunteer at 1.
Raise money for a charity. (There about 500 official charities.)
Run an age qualifying time at a NYRR half or full marathon.
Enter the lottery for a non-NYRR age qualifying marathon.
Enter the lottery for the Virtual Marathon.
Purchase it through an official travel agency.

I’ve qualified every year since 2019 with a NYRR half marathon time.

And I’ve been lucky enough to complete the race in 2019, 2023 & 2024.

I had a guaranteed entry again for this year, as well.

And since I didn’t run any NYRR half marathons this year (I didn’t accept my guaranteed entries for Brooklyn & NYC), I won’t have the opportunity to run the NYCM next year and not likely in the future.

IOW, it wasn’t an easy decision but I’m sure I made the right one.

Here are 5 Reasons why I didn’t accept my Guaranteed Entry to the NYCM:

1.I’ve done it THREE times already.

I’d like to travel more and/or run some different races.

2.The training is so time-consuming.

And I still work full-time. It’s stressful trying to fit in those weekend long long runs.

3.I want to preserve my “body” and be able to run many more years.

I mean I AM over 70. Nothing hurts and I want to keep that way.

4. It’s expensive – hotel rooms, meals, transportation, etc.

As mentioned above, with that $$, I could travel. And I don’t have those free hotel rooms anymore.

5. I’m looking forward to being a spectator (for the first time) and supporting my 3 friends who are running it.

They’ve cheered me on and now it’s my turn to return the favor. It should be fun.

That being said, I think everyone should run this race at least once. It is an amazing experience.

I hope you all get the chance.

2026 TCS New York City Marathon | My Next Marathon

Happy Running! Have you already run this race? Do you want to run the NYC Marathon? Have you ever entered the lottery? Please share.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

April 15, 2025 by Darlene

2025 Delmar Dash Recap

Events & Things To Do In Delmar, New York on 6th April 2025

April 6, 2025 9:00 AM

It is nice to run a race that is only 10 minutes from your house.

This is my 9th time running this race.

In 2012, I had a broken ankle so I couldn’t run it and in 2017, my back was bothering me so I didn’t run it. Then due to the Pandemic, it was cancelled in 2020 and 2021. I did run it again in 2022 and for some reason, I hadn’t run it that past two years.

Delmar Dash ’11

Delmar Dash ’13

Delmar Dash ’14

Delmar Dash ’15

Delmar Dash ’16

Delmar Dash ’18

Delmar Dash ’19

Delmar Dash ’22

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

It is a flat course so my times had been fairly decent:

2022 – 46:08
2019 – 44:53(PR)
2018 – 45:09
2016 – 47:14
2015 – 45:26
2014 – 48:14
2013 – 47:39
2011 – 47:08

I may sound like a broken record but three years later, my expectations were much lower… In fact, a course PW was inevitable. I was expecting more of a 55:xx finish time.

I still didn’t feel totally recovered from my stomach virus. The weather forecast didn’t look great.

And with a half marathon the week after, I needed to be cautious and not get injured.

To save time on race day, I picked up my bib and race shirt the day before.

white? really?

Now only if spring would arrive. It was nice on Monday and Tuesday but I was too sick to run. Then it was either rainy or windy or both the rest of the week. And when it was ok to run, I was working in NYC and didn’t have the time.

It’s also always hard at this time of year to decide what to wear. Too cold for spring clothes but I am tired of jackets and tights. And then there was rain in the forecast.

With any luck, the rain would stop by race start which was 9 am.

Race Day:

As I mentioned above, I had been suffering from an awful stomach virus and hadn’t eaten much all week.

Since I was racing, I did eat my usual: coffee and oatmeal.

I debated a long time on what to wear. In hindsight, I could have worn a skirt, compression calf sleeves, cap, and a long sleeved shirt but it was still raining when I left the house and so I decided on capris, compression calf sleeves, 2 long sleeved shirts, a beanie and gloves.

I got there early. I knew a few people doing this race so I went inside the school to look for them.

The race started on the street but ended in front of the school entrance

Because of the local half marathon being held next weekend and the lousy weather, there weren’t as many runners as usual. Probably around 120. In past years, there were usually around 300 runners.

It was a little chilly out so we all waited in the gym until the last minute.

For obvious reasons, my only hope for the race was to just to finish the 5 miles pain-free.

And maybe have a little left in the tank (if the weather cooperated) to add in some more miles. Since I had skipped so many runs, I was nervous about completing 13.1 the next weekend.

Well, the rain stopped. Woo Hoo.

We walked down the street to where the race started.

Of course waiting for the race to begin, I was cold.

I lined up with some faster runners (but lost them as soon as the race started. lol)

I forgot that they do not use chip time – just gun time for this race. I could have lined up closer to the starting line.

I must be there somewhere… probably cut off on the right

I tried to start out fast but not too fast. Though I never know what this is. And I probably did since my legs seemed to have zero energy today.

There was someone calling out times at each mile. When I heard my Mile 1 time, I thought they were mistaken (9:xx)

pic from one of my weekday runs several years ago … I often run in these neighborhoods

I think I only made it a little over a mile before I started to feel sick and had to walk.

The course is about 20 turns around the neighborhoods and it is pretty flat.

But every time I tried to run, I felt dizzy and nauseous and so I just walked until the feeling passed.

There was a water stop at mile 2.5 or so and that helped… a little.

I tired with each mile but tried my best to keep it up some semblance of speed when I was running but there was so much walking.

My friends kept getting farther and farther in the distance ahead. But I wasn’t worried at all about my time. I just wanted to finish whiteout getting sick.

I was also pretty warm. No rain but lots of humidity and I was definitely over dressed. I took off my gloves right away and by the end, I had to take off my beanie.

And so I just walked and ran and repeated it until the finish line came into view .

I crossed the finish line just under 52 minutes.

It was not chip timed and so they just wrote down your bib number and time on the clock.

so happy to be done!!

Post Race Activities:

This race used to have more sponsors and there were raffles, giveaways and even massages.

There were still nice refreshments: soup, fruit, pastries, coffee, hot cocoa and cake.

I wasn’t the least bit hungry but grabbed some cake (which resulted in sharp stomach pains.) Eventually I had some hot cocoa and I felt so much better.

The results were posted….

And I came in 3rd in my age group!! Sometimes you just have to show up.

In fact, with 5 year age group awards and a small crowd, we all won!!

I waited around for the awards ceremony and I was thrilled that it was NOT a medal. I love something usable.

Additional Race Reflections:

Positives:

- Nearby (3 miles away from my house)
- Organized packet pick up the day before and morning of
- Lots of parking
- Warm, dry place to wait before and after (middle school gym)
- Real bathrooms
- Well organized course, lots of course marshals
- Tech shirt
- Glasses as age group awards
- Flat course
- Well marked course
- Free photos (coming soon)

Negatives:

- Small turnout
- Gun timed
- White unisex shirt
- I felt like crap

Final Stats:

Garmin time

A big PW but expectedly so. But not as awful I thought it would be.

Since this course is flat and near where I live, it is still one of my favorite races and I will run it again next year. I am really happy with my time (considering…)

Since I was training for a half marathon, I felt like I needed to add some miles to the legs.

So I drove to the rail trail. Lots of runners and bikers were out on this gorgeous day. I dragged myself through 3 more miles (with lots of walking).