When I first started running, this race was one of my favorite 5ks. I ran it in 2008, 2009, 2010.
in 2008 – my first year of running
in 2010, this is where I met AJH for the first time (I was wearing shorts back then.)
It’s funny how things have changed. AJH was trying to convince me to run a longer race than a 5k. Since then I have completed over 70 half marathons.
My 5k time back in 2010 was 29:34.
After 5 years off (from this race), I ran it again in 2015. And my time was 28:41. So things hadn’t changed that much (but I started to wear running skirts instead of shorts).
I enjoyed this race so much that I re-added it to my summer racing list and ran it again in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2023 and 2024 (28:27, 27:37, 27:28, 28:18, 28:05, 30:03)
2016
2017
2018
2019
2023
2024
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
Due to the Pandemic, they discontinued this race for 3 years.
Two years ago, the organizers of the Firecracker 4 race took over this race and I decided to sign up.
I shocked myself with a decent pace so again I thought why not and my running friends were busy this weekend so it was a good excuse to skip my long run.
Here is the map for the course that I ran in past years:
15 turns in this course!!
Here’s the 2023 course:
pretty similar… they have kept this course for 2024 and 2025.
I didn’t get much running during the week – too many other activities such as tennis, pickleball, hikes, and HEAT/HUMIDITY. Plus my ankle/achilles has been weirdly tight since tennis/pickleball on Monday.
Race Day:
The race started at 8 am.
This being the opening weekend of the Saratoga Flat Track, believe it or not, there would already be a lot of traffic at that hour.
I got up at 5:30am and had my usual race breakfast of coffee and oatmeal.
I left at 6:30 in order to get there early enough to get parking and pick up my bib.
It wasn’t raining where I live but I should have checked the forecast where I would be racing (about 45 mi, north).
It started to rain during my drive.
And there were no available parking lots this year so you had to park on the street.
Eventually I found a spot and now it was pouring.
I grabbed an umbrella and got my shirt/bib.
You also got a free ticket to the race track.
I went back to my car to drop off my shirt and now it was thundering and lightning… awesome?
But of course, I was going to run this race…
So I headed back… with my umbrella (that I would stash somewhere).
It is usually a very popular race but I didn’t see anyone I knew. I bet that most were seeking cover…
Of course, I needed a pre-race photo.
Soon it was time to line up.
I stood somewhere in the middle. This race attracts many speedy runners and I didn’t want to get run over… but I forgot that there was no timing mat or start line (and I started my watch late.)
Miles 1-3.1:
No reason to recap this race mile by mile.
There was torrential rain… The rain did not let up and rained harder and harder and the puddles got bigger and bigger.
the video is on VB/IG)
There was thunder and lightning so it got scary.
I started out at a decent pace because I wanted to get done but as the puddles became lakes, it was hard to keep up any kind of pace.
Plus I felt my gait was off and my ankle or achilles (can’t figure out which) was still tight. So I walked much more often the second half.
I managed to sprint across the finish line and not fall.
Post Race Activities:
I grabbed a water and found my umbrella.
I checked the results and I came in 2nd but I decided that I didn’t need another medal and left.
Additional Race Reflections:
Yes, it was an early morning and a long drive.
A miserably wet race (but not hot!)
And yes, it should have been a 7 mile long run as part of my half marathon training (Run 4 the River – Aug. 30).
But races challenge me and I think it’s important to challenge oneself.
Otherwise, my runs are slow and easy and I squeeze them in whenever I can. I also run with friends, some faster, some slower and always with run walk intervals.
So I don’t regret running this 5k. Though it was a course PW, it was expected.
Positives:
Well organized race
Well marked course with many course marshals (even in the rain)
Flat course
Immediate results
5 year age groups for awards
Free ticket to the race track.
Negatives:
RAIN!
Only bananas post race.
Unisex shirts
No parking lots
Would I recommend this race?
Maybe…
All in all, this was a fun race. Besides all the turns, the race course is pretty flat. It is well-organized.
Not sure if I would run it again because it is not nearby.
In past years, I added more miles after the race a nearby park (and so at least it counted as a long run.)
Final Stats:
Still queen of the positive splits:
With an increasing number of walks with each mile…
Next Up:
July 27
Happy Running! Did you race this weekend? Do you have a big races coming up? Do you run short races even when you are training for a big long race? Would you race in a thunderstorm? Please share.
If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. But I do try to do those weekday short runs (Mon, Tues, Wed this week).
And oops, there was a 5k the day before!!
But truthfully, if it’s fewer miles than a half marathon, I just go out and run it. At this stage of my racing, I don’t think about getting PRs.
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
As I mentioned, this was a brand new race for this area (I believe the company sponsors this race elsewhere).
I have participated in several trail run/walks at here at Indian Ladder Farms.
But I was glad when they said the race course would NOT be on technical trails. (I am NOT a trail runner.) But it would be 2 loops and some grassy sections and some paved.
This race was only for fun… no pizza the night before. I think there was hot dogs, salad and ice cream followed by fireworks.
Race Day:
My Race Plan:
Do not get injured!! And most importantly, have fun!!
I would most likely do a lot of walking… because my legs would be tired after the 4 mile race I ran the day before and it’s hard to run fast on grass.
I hesitate to even call this a “RACE.”
Advertised Course Map:
TWO Loops
Elevation:
I arrived early and parked in the grassy parking lot.
start and finish line in the distance…
I collected my shirt and bib.
What I thought was odd was that they gave you your medal before the race began.
And they said that you could wait and just get your donut and cider and NOT run the race at all??
Um… I was planned to do the race!!
It was crowded for a new race… probably over 250 runners. I race fairly often, as you know, and I didn’t recognize anymore?!
Maybe these people weren’t runners or maybe most local runners did the 4 miler the day before?
Anyway, I put my medal and shirt back in my car (so no post race medal pic)…
and got ready to head to the start…
Finally, someone I knew showed up.
happy to hang out with Linda
We discussed our race strategy which was the same since she had also run the Firecracker 4 the day before… slow running, walk often!
As I expected, there were many walkers and always annoying when they start in front.
We began on a rocky dirt road and then continued onto grass.
I ran slowly until there was a hill and then I walked.
This pace continued until the end.
Although it was advertised (see above) as a two loop course, there was several turn arounds. It was very confusing since runners were on different loops and often it was hard to know where to go…
They needed more course marshals on the turns but runners just kept running. I heard several runners saying that they went the wrong way.
I did not although I almost missed turning into the finish line.
Since the course did not go into the woods, it was very sunny and more humid that the day before.
I was glad to not be racing.
I occasionally glanced at my Garmin and was surprised when I saw that I completed 3.1 miles and there was no finish line in sight.
Eventually I did finish this 3.6 mile 5k!!
and then waited for Linda to arrive.
Actual course map:
and elevation:
Post Race Activities:
Since we already had our medals, Linda and I headed to the building with the cider and donuts.
I checked my email and saw that I won my age group (as I was the only one!!)
When we were approaching the building, I asked someone where the awards were given out. She replied that she didn’t know but would taken me to someone who did know. We went in the back, through the kitchen and eventually found out that the awards were way back at the race finish line.
I may have groaned since we were very sweaty and thirsty.
She handed us two freshly baked cider donuts and two glasses of cold cider…. ahead of a LONG line of race finishers.
Did we feel guilty?? Maybe just a little plus she didn’t take our tickets…
We then headed back to the finish.. and I got a golden star pin as my award.
By the time, we headed out to our cars, the line was miles long (so no temptation to wait and use our drink & donut tickets for seconds..)
Additional Race Reflections:
Racing two days in a row is not ideal (esp. at my age.)
I was happy with my finish time. Yes, it was slow but running on grass and dirt is not easy…
I am unbelievably happy that after the race, my legs/feet felt fine.. no pain anywhere (always a good thing at my age.)
All in all, I thought this was a fun race. No regrets.
The Good:
Easy packet pick-up before the race.
Lots of parking.
Trail but not a technical one.
Cool swag esp. the wine glass.
Many porta-potties in addition to real bathrooms
A cool medal (that is also a bottle opener).
Free finisher photo.
Cold spiked cider for all.
Warm cider donut for all.
Important charity.
Virtual option.
The Bad:
The DATE! (last minute change but they did option a refund.)
10 year age groups (but it wasn’t a huge race.)
Confusing course.
Long line for refreshments.
Course was over 3.1 miles!!
Cotton race shirts
Would I recommend this race?
Yes.
But since there are many other races in the area during the summer, I doubt I would repeat this one unless my friends decided to do it.
Final Stats:
more accurate pace
Next Up:
July 12, 2025
Happy Running! Ever run a spiked cider race? Do you like to run inaugural races? Do you run new races each year or repeat your favorites? Please share.
Many of my weekend running friends used to run this race every year.
if you read my weekly run downs, you may recognize a few of these runners
I had never joined them because it was always hot, the race is crowded and I’d prefer to head up to the lake early.
Then in 2021, I decided to do the race for the first time. And I loved it
So I signed up in 2022 and more of my running friends joined me
Two years ago, I convinced a few more friends to join me.
And last year, I also had company:
The group grew to 6 (Denise was there too but missed the photo)
I was hoping that they would sign up again this year but if not, I knew there would be many others there whom I knew.
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
Since the race was on a Friday, I was still able to get in a few short runs earlier in the week.
To save time on race day, I picked up my race packet at Fleet Feet on Tuesday.
Well, I wasn’t successful in getting the friends above to race but a few did agree to come and walk the 4 miles.
so at lunchtime I picked up everyone’s bibs and shirts.
The weather forecast:
Thursday Night -A chance of thunderstorms, mainly before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 57. Northwest wind around 6 mph becoming calm in the evening. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Friday – Sunny, with a high near 81. Calm wind becoming northwest 5 to 7 mph in the morning.
I hoped that they were correct and that it wouldn’t be too humid and we’d be done it got warm… This might have been my FIRST dry, non humid race of 2025.
As I’ve said in most of race recaps, my goal in racing these days is to do my best but more importantly, have fun and not get injured.
Race Day:
I ate my usual oatmeal and coffee breakfast and checked the weather – it seemed perfect!!
Similar race outfit since I needed to wear red, white and blue. I think I changed my shirt for this year:
The past few years, I carpooled with Heidi and she knew exactly where to park. I was thrilled when she again offered. Deb and I carpooled and met the others at Target (which was only a few miles from the race) at 7:45 am. Judy (former blogger) decided to come and so there were 5 of us and Denise drove instead.
We usually found parking on the street but it seemed much more crowded this year and so we had to park in the parking garage.
Then we walked toward the start…
We passed the finish line passing many runners that I knew.
Then of course, we took our obligatory pre-race photos…
And we made plans on where to meet after the race. It was cool to see how creatively everyone was dressed for this July 4th holiday race.
I was happy to see so many people racing… even more than last year (although I think they still offered a virtual option.)
There was so much excitement in the air. Live racing rocks!!
Eventually it was time for the race to start (9 am).
Heidi, Deb, Denise and Judy headed toward the back since they were walking.
I stayed toward the front and chatted with some runners whom I knew.
Though I had run this race 4 times already, the only thing I remembered was that there was a BIG hill during mile 4.
course map
elevation according to my Garmin
Mile 1:
As I mentioned, this was a crowded race.
The bottleneck at the beginning slowed me down which was probably a good thing as I always start out too fast (and still did.).
We began running down Broadway which was a slight downhill but eventually we did hit a hill before we turned left and ran past Congress Park. I already felt the need to walk… I started thinking that this wasn’t going to be a good race…
And it seemed like everyone was passing me by but when I glanced at my watch, it showed that my pace was 9:XX minutes!! WTH?
Mile 2:
I was surrounded by runners the whole race. Several times I bumped into runners or they bumped into me. Then again, it was a big local race with over 2300 finishers.
As we ran through neighborhoods, spectators enthusiastically cheered us on. There were musicians or bands throughout. (I borrowed some photos from FB. I hope Judy doesn’t mind).
The best part was that there were many folks spraying the runners with water as well as sprinklers set up. I made sure that I ran through each one.
There was a water stop during this mile. I did stop and walked for a bit to catch my breath.
I did feel a little stronger during this mile (but that was short-lived.)
Mile 3:
We ran into a few rolling hills during this mile but none too bad. As I mentioned above, there were many different groups playing music. That was a nice distraction.
Saratoga is such a pretty town. I enjoyed running through its streets.
But I started tiring and decided to just walk if I needed to.
I was surprised that there was a second water stop since the race was only 4 miles. I did appreciate it and I stopped again.
In addition to the official water stops, there seemed to be many spectators giving out bottles of water. I did not stop at any of those since I didn’t want to carry a bottle of water or waste it.
Mile 4:
I think there was one more water stop… I was getting dizzy so I don’t really remember.
I was expecting the steep hill in the last mile. And it did not disappoint. I was wishfully thinking that I could run up the whole thing and finish strong (for once.)
Nope! I had to walk many many times.
Again this year, they gave out ice pops. I remember that it made me nauseous and I threw it away so this year I didn’t even take one.
I continued to run/walk up the hill very slowly.
Finally, I spotted that big American flag which meant we were approaching the finish line.
I sprinted as fast as I could at this point.
I saw 40:xx on the clock as I crossed the finish line and was a little disappointed. I knew I was running slower and walked a lot more than the previous year but I hoped to at least finish under 40 minutes (No biggie.).
Post Race:
I wanted to watch my friends finish
First came Heidi (she had walked the first 3 miles but then ran the last one!!)
Finally the other 3 crossed…
I checked the website to see if I won an age group award. Three years ago, I came in 2nd. The past two years, in my new age group, I came in 5th (no surprise since I had slowed down…)
Nope but I did finish ahead of Martha (but barely). 25 in my AG.
Like last year, we decided to stay in Saratoga to have brunch. First we walked back to our cars to change into dry shirts. We also knew from previous years that the restaurants would be crowded. So on Tuesday, I had made a reservation for 11:15.
We were early so just waited and chatted…
matching race shirts…
Worth the wait… Brunch was excellent!
Additional Race Reflections:
I felt that I could have done better if I didn’t walk as much (but I always say that AFTER the race.)
But probably the most important factors why I enjoy running this race are connecting with friends, challenging myself and the feeling of normalcy on this national holiday!
Win. Win. Win.
Positives:
Ample parking (parking garage and street parking, if you get there early)
Well marked course.
Lots of familiar faces.
Interesting course.
Friendly volunteers.
Music entertainment along the course.
Enthusiastic spectators (sprinklers and ice pops)
Easy and organized packet pick-up on Tues-Thurs and race day
Real restrooms before and after and ample number of port-potties
Two or three water stops for a 4 mile race.
Additional unofficial water tables.
Awards (3 deep) for 5 year age group awards
Photo Booth
15% discount at Fleet Feet with your bib
Negatives:
Steep hill at mile 4
Late start – 9 am for a July race?
$$ for race photos
Would I recommend this race?
Yes. I enjoyed it. I hope that I can make it work and run it again next year.
I signed up for the Mastercard NYC Mini 10k for several reasons:
I love NYC.
I love running in Central Park.
I hadn’t run a race there since Dec. 2022.
I had enough pts for a free hotel room.
I thought my NYC BRF Cari may be running it too or at least we could meet up during the weekend.
All woman’s race – so inspiring.
Elite runners do it! (Last year Fiona O’Keeffe, Emily Sisson, Dakotah Lindwurm, Sara Hall, Molly Huddle, Jessica McLain, Nell Rojas and others ran it.)
10k is one of my favorite distances.
No Harlem Hill for this race (just 3 sisters).
Training:
If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. But I do try to do those weekday short runs (Mon, Tues, Wed this week).
and get in some longer runs on the weekend (although the weekend before this race, it was only a 5k race): 10m, 8m 6m
Miles on the Mohawk 10m
I knew about the HILLS that would taunt me during the race. I have run in this park and I ran the Shape Half Marathon, Fred LeBow Half twice, Central Park Half and many other shorter races.
Shape Half ’17
Fred Lebow Half ’22
Central Park Half ’22
France Run 8k
Grete’s Great Gallop 10K
Poland Springs 10k
Shape 5.8 mile loop
Ted Corbit 15k
I’ve always wanted to run this race. However, it often conflicted with the Freihofer Run for Women or work. I finally got in in 2020 and then it was cancelled due to COVID.
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
Believe or not, my friends picked June 5 to visit the NY Botanical Gardens.
So I stayed in a hotel in the Bronx that night
and then the next morning, I took a subway into Manhattan and immediately got busy with all my scheduled activities.
First I headed to NYRR Run Center to pick up my bib and race shirt and also attend a panel discussion.
that’s Emily Sisson (who didn’t end up running the race)
I walked back to my hotel but my room still wasn’t ready. So I took the subway downtown to visit the Anne Frank exhibit.
Afterward, I walked back to my hotel stopping on the way for a late lunch (pizza). I finally checked into my room and then headed uptown to the newly renovated Frick museum.
Cari met me there and accompanied me to my next activity, a Broadway show. But first a gelato stop.
I walked back to my hotel and called it a day. Don’t ask how many miles I walked the day before this race…
#flatme ready
Race Day:
I brought my usual race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee with me and got up around 5:30 am. My hotel was on West 36th and 6th Avenue. I have in the past taken an Uber but I decided to leave super early (6:30 am) and take the subway from 34th St & 8th Ave.
And it was super crowded with runners! I chatted with one who was running her first race ever.
I got off at 86th and followed all the runners to the start at 90th.
The rain in the forecast disappeared and insane humidity replaced it.
It was already warm and I had decided not to do bag check (besides it was a mile from the start). I was originally worried that I would get soaked from the rain. I changed my mind. A little rain would have felt good.
It was still early but the time passed quickly.
My Race Plan:
Do not get injured!! And most importantly, have fun!!
I would most likely do a lot of walking… because there would be hills!!
I planned to stop and walk briefly at every water stop (so I wouldn’t get dehydrated) and to stop and walk longer to eat a gel around mile 4.
I was worried about the humidity so I brought salt chews and took 2 before the race and planned take 2 more at the halfway point.
My estimated finish time would be around 1:15 (far from my 57:xx PR at this distance).
Anyway, here’s how the race went:
Course Map:
Elevation according to Strava:
Miles 1-3:
I started in Corral F:
It only took 5-10 minutes to get to the start line.
the elites
We started running on Central Park West (W90th St) and eventually entered the park at 72nd.
I was feeling good but tried to keep it slow due to the weather conditions. Although I thought I had started my Garmin, somehow I did not. I realized it about a half mile into the race. No big deal except for not knowing what mile I was at. At least there were clocks at each mile.
Once in the park, we ran south. I think I ran until the first water stop about 1.5m in before I walked… I was sweating (and I rarely sweat) so I grabbed some Gatorade.
Eventually we turned and ran up the east side of the park.
It was crowded but I didn’t really need to weave in and out. I was not running that fast and for my pace, many runners walked intermittently.
As the race went on, the humidity made me feel weaker and so I paced myself by walking up the hills and sprinting whenever I had enough energy.
There was a 2nd water stop around the 5k point… More Gatorade!
Miles 4-6.2:
Once we reached 102nd St, we looped around and headed back on the west side of the park toward 72nd where the race would finish.
I finally ate my Gu at the next water stop (around mile 4.5).
Still no rain. Even the sun peaked out. So humid!!!!!
And now came more hills.
I am pretty sure I walked more the 2nd half of the race.
I didn’t care. I just wanted to finish upright.
I did give it my all on any straight away and/or downhills.
And somehow, my Garmin stopped and I lost my stats for the last .5 miles (?).
I think there was one more water stop (around mile 5.5) but I skipped it as I just wanted to be done…
I did feel good enough to sprint across the finish and was pleasantly surprised at the time on the clock.
I saw many runners with flowers but I guess they had run out by the time I finished.
Post Race Activities:
I immediately got my medal, grabbed a heavy bag of food (water, Gatorade, apple, pretzels, bar…)
reusable cups
and posed for a quick pic. or two!
While I was waiting for Cari to finish, I met two lovely runners who would be running their first NYCM in November. We became instant friends.
Soon Cari arrived…
showing off our “skirts”
with her friends. Another photo op.
So two Cari meet-ups in one weekend. Always a pleasure and hopefully, we’ll meet up again soon.
As I exited the park, it was so inspiring to see all the runners happily finishing their race.
The rain finally arrived but not until around 1:30 pm.
And luckily I had indoor plans (the Morgan Library and Museum) for the rest of the day:
Additional Race Reflections:
Running in the heat/humidity may not have been exactly fun. But at least without the rain, I could enjoy the pre and post-race experience.
can you spot the bride and groom?
I was happy with my finish time. Yes, it was almost 9 minutes slower than a 10k that I had run in this park
back in Oct. 2019
but it was not a PW and faster than I expected on this course and in these weather conditions.
Enough whining…I am so grateful to be able to visit NYC and run a race. And a race that included only women was just icing on the cake.
I am unbelievably happy that after the race, my legs/feet felt fine.. no pain anywhere (always a good thing at my age.)
All in all, I thought this was a fun race.
The Good:
Easy packet pick-up at Run Center and also race morning near the start).
NYRR sponsored events before race dy.
Cool purple tank
Bag Check if needed.
Water at almost EVERY mile. Gatorade at most.
Many porta-potties along the course in addition to real CP bathrooms
Well marked course.
Timing Clock at every mile.
No Harlem Hill.
Great crowd support!
Los of volunteers as course marshals and at water stops
Very cool medal.
Immediate results.
Blogger meet-up with Cari
No Blisters. No pain.
The Bad:
Humidity.
Hills in Central Park. I did not do any training on hills (my bad)
Post-race food – just pretzels and apples but I guess I missed the bagels and cookies
They ran out of flowers.
Photos?
Would I recommend this race?
Yes.
Do it if you can. You won’t regret it (unless you hate hills lol).
No, it’s not an easy course. Only a little over 10,000 women runners usually participate so not a big race by NYC standards. And not an expensive one.
Final Stats:
1st and last 1/2 mile missing
No age group award but 8 out of 64 ain’t bad.
Next Up:
June 14
Happy Running! Ever run this race? Have you raced in NYC? Do you like 10Ks? Have you ever run an all women’s race? Please share.
This is the only race that I’ve run every year! This was my 18th time!!!!! (In 2020, it went virtual so actually my 17th in-person FRW race.)
It has always been held the Saturday after Memorial Day except in 2021, when due to COVID, the race was moved to September. In 2022, it again returned to its regular date.
on their webpage…can you spot me in the pink cap?
My first FRW was in 2008 (my first year of running). At the time, it was the farthest I’d ever run:
I mentored a beginning running group of moms in 2010 which was very rewarding:
Unfortunately, I’m the only one from this group who still runs.
In 2012, it was my first run after serious ankle surgery:
and this photo made the cover of our local paper.
I even ran it in 2013 after breaking my foot at mile 1:
And in 2019, it was the last race for my VT friend Andrea (who died of cancer).
As you can tell, there is a lot of history attached to this race for me.
In 2020, I was named an Ambassador. That honor continued through 2022.
Believe it not, I even chose to skip my high school reunion in 2022 in order to run this race!!
Then last year they changed the name of the race!!
It’s now called the Sara Lee Delightful Run for Women.
Nevertheless, I knew that I would do this race (no matter what they called it). I’m pretty sure I will always do this race!!
Unfortunately, last year, I had food poisoning the night before the race but I showed up and walked it with my friends. And actually I had the most fun ever.
Pre-Race Preparations and Activities:
As with this race every year, I never know what will happen… I could break my foot again (as I did in 2013) or could have a course PR as I did in 2018. Even have to walk the whole race. Most likely, it will just be a fun run with lots of women.
And this was also my tenth year participating in the Freihofer Training Challenge (TC).
photo from 2022
This year, I decided again to become a Mentor. I wanted to support all the runners who would be finishing their FIRST 5k. And connect with my “past TC” buddies, as well.
I volunteered on Wednesday evenings on the rail trail near where I live.
Many years ago, the day before I would walk to the Empire State Plaza concourse at lunch to go to the expo and pick up my race packet. They used to have a really big expo with vendors and health-related exhibits. But the past few years, they have held it at a local college.
As I did the past few years, I signed up to volunteer on Friday evening at packet pick-up and then I skipped playing mah jongg in order to prepare my #flatme.
Race Day:
I hate parking garages and traffic so I usually parked on the street and walked to the start. However, with the new(er) course, it was an even longer hike. Like almost 2 miles!
But I used to love to run down Madison Avenue and see the race banners and see the giant poster on the bridge.
pics from 6 years ago…
They changed the course nine years ago. This course is supposedly faster…less congested and has a less steep hill at the start and finish.
course map
elevation according to my Garmin
I did run the newer course the past nine years and I also liked it better than the original..
heading downhill to the finish line
As I mentioned above, this was my 18th year for the race and I really wanted to continue my streak.
Most of my running friends were not running the race this year. But Deb and Denise said that they would walk it.
So the three of carpooled and parked on the street and walked to the start.
Did mention the weather forecast? RAIN! This has been a trend for every Saturday!!!
It rained most of the night before and I woke up to rain. So I grabbed a raincoat, umbrella and rain poncho… It was close t0 60 degrees which wasn’t bad except for the WIND!!
We were soaked by the time we arrived at the a park near the race start.
Being part of the Training Challenge group, I could hang out and leave my stuff in the tent.
We all complained about the weather but knew that we would run the race no matter what.
Soon it was time to leave the tent for the Training Challenge group photo.
Though, I didn’t enjoy mentoring as much as I used to, I was happy to be part of this amazing group of women.
Then we returned to the tent and waited until the last moment to head out into the rain… And it was raining even harder now.
I was scheduled to start in corral 3 and squeezed into the crowd. I had taken off my jacket but kept on my poncho for the last few minutes and then tossed it.
Mile 1:
It is usually very crowded during the first mile but this year were fewer runners than in previous years (due to the weather, most likely.) I never really had to weave and had plenty of space to run comfortably.
The race began with a long steep uphill. And of course, it was super windy and rain blowing in your face.
But I did run most of the hill… it was slow but I did it.
Mile 1 continued as we turned left and entered the park (and the hill ended).
There were rolling hills throughout the park. They were not bad and even I could run them without walking (but barely).
The worst part were all the potholes and cracks in the roads…And the puddles which were often lakes. You had to weaving back and forth to avoid them and you had to keep your eyes peeled to the ground to make sure you didn’t trip.
Mile 2:
There was a water stop around mile 1.25. I wasn’t thirsty but I used it as an excuse to walk for a bit.
More rolling hills during this mile as you went around the park circling the lake. Only one of the hills was steep but it was very short.
I tried to pick up the pace for the second mile. I told myself that I would not walk until the next water stop.
Soon we were getting toward exiting the park.
Mile 3-3.1:
There was a second water stop around mile 2.5. Again I stopped for a drink (even though I didn’t need one) and walked longer than before.
Finally we left the park and headed toward the street we started on.
It was a long downhill and I had to remember not to start sprinting too soon. I’ve made that mistake in past years. Besides it was slippery and so many puddles.
Eventually I saw the 3 mile sign and I started to run as fast as I could while posing for the photographers and running though the finish line…
As you can see below, I crossed at 31:xx, a big PW but considering the weather conditions, I was not disappointed.
Post Race Activities:
I got my medal and then headed toward the refreshments with a stop at the results table.
nope, no award this year – 5th out of 58!!
The food lines were very long so I just returned to the tent.
I was soaked!!!
Deb and Denise were waiting for me there. In the end, they had decided due to the wind and rain to not even walk the race. They just waited for me in the tent (and took that photo of me heading to the finish and crossing.)
So we all walked back to the car (in the pouring rain) and then went out for brunch.
Additional Race Reflections:
Many runners were excited about their PR or their first 5k.. I may not have run a PR or even close. In fact, it was a course PW but I still really enjoyed myself.
Since I can never remember my finish times. I looked up my recent ones after the race.
2014 – 28:51
2015 – 29:22
2016 -28:50
2017 – 27:48
2018 – 27:37 (PR)
2019 – 27:47
2021 – 28:16
2022 – 28:24
2023 – 29:41
2025 – 31:28 (PW)
I know. How can you have fun running in the pouring rain? And running one of your slowest 5k…
I wasn’t cold while I was running just before and after. Yes, I got soaked but it wasn’t the first time and it won’t be the last.
I guess I just enjoy racing.
Positives:
Ample parking.
Well marked course.
Lots of familiar faces.
Interesting course (through a beautiful park).
Downhill finish.
Friendly and abundant number of volunteers.
Two water stops (for a 5k)
The electric atmosphere.
Virtual option.
Free photos
Immediate results
Nice Swag for a 5k (tech shirt, medal, cookies, bread)
Cool medal
All women – all ages, all paces…
Many free photo stations
Negatives:
Uphill first mile.
Uneven pavement in the park
Long line for the refreshments
Name change (it will forever be called the Freihofer race)
WEATHER!!!
Would I recommend this race?
Yes. Yes. It’s a great local race. And having it be ALL WOMEN makes it even more special.
Final Stats:
positive splits thanks to the downhill finish
not exactly a steady pace – watching for all those puddles…
So FRW #18 is in the books!
The tradition is still alive! It was again a great local race with many women running or walking it. Can’t wait to do it again next year. I hope I can talk more of my local running friends into running it too. The weather has to be better, right?
Next Up:
June 7
Happy Running! How was your weekend? Did you race? If so, how did it go? Do you have a favorite race that you run every year? Do you prefer 5ks or longer races? How do you feel about racing in the rain? Please share.
With most of the local races either cancelled or virtual in 2020, Albany Running Exchange (ARE) began scheduling COVID Safety Plan approved races in 2021. This was one of them and unfortunately, it POURED the whole race.
In 2022, I ran this 10 miler again but on a very hot day. I did it with several friends and had fun.
I ran it one more time in 2023 but skipped it last year (don’t remember why…)
This year, they offered this race as part of a 3 race challenge. Of course, I signed up for all 3.
The race is advertised as “a very fast, point-to-point course.”
As you can from the elevation chart below, it is not exactly what I would call fast (I see hills!!)
The logistics were also complicated. Either you parked at the start and got a ride back to your car after the race or you parked at the finish and got a ride to the start (or pay for the shuttle).
I signed up for Miles on the Mohawk 10M 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’ve run it 3 times.
It’s a flatish course, mostly on a bike path.
It was part 3 of a 3 race challenge.
10 miles is easier than a half marathon!
This is now the only local 10 mile race.
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
I have run several 10 mile races. My slowest was in 2014: (1:49:55), my first one, and my PR was my third in the same year (1:38:45). All the others were somewhere in between as well as 2023’s at 1:43:12. If you’ve read any of my recent race recaps, you know that there’s little speed left in these old legs. And I am always prepared for a course PW and just happy to cross the race (without pain.)
Usually on the weekends this time of year, I run short races (which helps me work a little on my speed.)
But that also means that I have skipped some long runs. At least I did manage to get a 6 & 8 miler prior to this race.
I also squeezed in (between raindrops) 3 short runs during the week before the race.
Deb was nice enough to pick up our bibs on Friday so neither Barb not I had to arrive early and pick them up before the race on Sunday.
I met my running friends Saturday morning to walk and after have brunch.
the rain even stopped!
Then I did some errands, gardening and carb loaded on Saturday evening. I debated about what to wear the next day. I was hoping that it would not rain or snow like the previous races in this challenge.
2025 – 4th H2H HM
Forecast: Mixture of clouds and sun. Between 46 and 66 degrees. So most likely in the 50s during the race.
#flatme:
not easy to dress for… I may start out with long sleeves and then tie it around my waist… or I may wear short sleeves with arm warmers.
Race Day:
Deb got injured but was able to drive both Barb and I to the start (and then drive to the finish and meet us there after the race.) We met at 7:15 am.
Mabee Farms is a really nice place to walk around before a race (when the weather is nice) – animals, the river, real restrooms, etc.
Believe it not, it was raining!!!! Yes, as it had been most of the week.
So we just sat in Deb’s car hoping the rain would stop.
The race started at 8:30 am. So soon it was time to head to the start area. And the rain had stopped!!!
obligatory pre-race pic…
I had decided to keep on my half zip as I thought that it was cool enough and that it might start to rain again.
spotting some racing pals…
There were no corrals so I just entered into the crowd somewhere in middle or perhaps closer to the front. Barb moved farther back. I chatted with friends until it was time to move.
Sorry to be a broken record but my goal for races these days is FINISH happy (that is not injured and ready to do another.) Throw those time goals out the window!!
Miles 1-3:
From Mabee Farm, the first mile headed west, mostly on Route 5S. We ran along the road and fairly soon connected with the Erie Canal Bike Path.
In other words, the canal was on our right and most of the race was run on the path with water views. As I ran the first mile, everyone appeared to be passing me by. But I didn’t look at my watch, just kept going with the flow.
The scenery was pretty. Of course, my pace was decent at first. I was feeling good… until I wasn’t.
Unfortunately I should have left my half zip in the car. It was humid and I got very warm right away.
By mile 2, I stopped and tied it around my waist.
The Mohawk river changed to being on the left.
The first water stop was at mile 3.3 (Kiwanis Park). I was very thirsty and decided to take a Gu as well. It wasn’t that it was so warm but humid and lots of pollen. I really had a hard time breathing.
Miles 4-6
Most of the race is a blur. I walked and ran. Those runners around me were doing the same. I tried to run more than walk. Not sure at times if I did or not. Some runners did continue to just run. But we played leap frog as I passed them when I ran and they passed me when I walked.
halfway – thanks to Bethany for the pic…
Amazingly I was running here (and I didn’t see the photographer)…
There was finally a second water stop at mile 5.6 (Lock 8 Park). Again I was glad to stop and drink.
Miles 7-10
The third water stop was around mile 8.1 (SCCC Bike Path Parking Area). More water and I took my 2nd Gu.
Around mile 9, some annoying hills appeared. Maybe there weren’t big hills and I was just getting tired. I tried to run up them but it was more like a slog.
I was very happy that nothing hurt. Not my feet. Not my lower back. I just was out of breath and had to walk.. A lot.
The photographer even cough me running:
15k mark
The crowd was also thinning. And I was walking more and running slower.
But eventually we headed toward Mohawk Harbor where you could hear the roar of the crowds.
As I headed toward the finish line, I got one last burst of energy as I saw my friends Deb and Heidi waiting.
I crossed at 1:49:XX . Happy to done and upright.
and my official finish line picture:
lol
Post-Race Activities
I got my medal and some water. Barbara was waiting for me as she had finished several minutes before me.
and the post-race pic!!
Next, we grabbed our box lunches (that I would give to my hubby when I got home.)
turkey sandwich and a brownie
I stopped by the results table and unfortunately I only came in 4th. No age group award!
and Martha turns 75 next year… yay!
I did get an extra medal as this was part of a 3 race challenge (10k+13.1+10).
Instead of eating our lunches or getting our free beer, my running friends and I decided to go out to brunch.
Additional Race Reflections:
So yeah, I finished slower than I wished. A course PW. But hey, I felt good. Nothing hurt. I didn’t even feel tired.
It was also nice that finally, I ran a race where it didn’t snow or rain or was windy.
I never regret a race that I’ve run. I might even run this one again next year.
Positives:
Ample parking at the start and finish.
Real restrooms at Mabee Farm
Bag check
Well marked course.
Varied scenery including river views
Lots of course marshals
Shuttle to the start (if needed).
Well organized.
A lot of pre-race information.
Familiar faces
Decent Post-race food.
Race shirt optional for more money
Cool medal.
Free Beer (in Druthers)
Free photos
Immediate results (and live tracking)
Negatives:
My slow finish time due to lots of walking.
They ran out of medals.
If it were hot, I would have wanted more than 3 water stops.
Would I recommend this race?
Yes. Yes.
It was super well-organized. Special attention was paid to EVERY detail. It will be even more fun when the weather is warmer/sunny and runners could hang out before and after the race comfortably.
Final Stats:
of course, I remained the queen of positive splits
no walks for miles 1 & 2
Next Up:
5k on May 31.
Happy Running! Have you run a 10 mile race? What is your favorite distance? What would you prefer PR and pain or PW and no pain? Are you planning to run a long race this summer? Please share.
The CDPHP® Workforce Team Challenge is a 3.5-mile road race open to teams of employees from corporations, businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, not-for-profit corporations, and financial institutions. Participating companies, organizations, and agencies use the event as a platform to provide health and fitness opportunities in the workplace while promoting goodwill and camaraderie among their employees.
It takes place at the Empire State Plaza in Albany on a similar course to the old Freihofer course. It usually sells out early with a cap of 10,000 runners.
At my former job, I ran this race once (in 2011), the only year I convinced them to have a team. It was fun so I signed up to be part of a team at my new job in 2017. We didn’t actually have enough runners for our own team so we partnered with UAlbany. I ran it with this team in 2018 and 2019, as well.
I enjoyed it and it was a good way to get to know others where I work. (Obviously purple is UAlbany’s color…)
2011
2017
2018
2019
Then there was the Pandemic. The race was cancelled in 2020. In 2021, it was postponed to August and moved to a new location.
a super hot and humid evening for a race… on a hilly course
Happy to report that in 2022 and years after, the race returned to its original date and location.
2022
I didn’t run it in 2023 and 2024. I don’t remember exactly why but it was probably because no one I knew was running it.
I hesitated this year too but I talked my friend Eleonora into it so I registered.
1.Race Day:
Anyway I remembered the course from many years ago. It starts with a steep uphill and then flattens out. You run through the park which has rolling hills and then it ends with a steep downhill.
elevation according to my Garmin
It is actually more of a run than a race. With thousands of participants and many walkers, you feel (at least I do) no pressure to do anything but finish.
The week before the race, I had returned from 3 days in NYC and 8 days in Florida. Two weekends in a row, I ran a 5k race.
During the days before the race, I was soooo tired. I considered skipping this race many times. But I knew El would be mad if I did.
So I did run (slowly) on Monday and Wednesday.
Now what do you eat for a race that starts at 6:25 pm?
I ate a banana and hoped that it would be enough.
To avoid the crowds, I parked my car in town and walked about 1.5 miles to the start.
The weather was sunny and warm with a slight breeze. But very humid.
My team was pretty organized. Again this year, they had set up a table and canopy. I walked around for a while searching for their table but finally located it (in a place not far from where it was in a previous year.)
I had not already picked up my team tee and bib so I got that and since it was still early, I walked around the plaza. I didn’t know many runners but I did bump into many who were volunteers.
I also picked up my race shirt.
Then I returned to our team table and met up with El.
skirt sisters
Soon we all gathered for a team photo.
I wore the team shirt over my existing shirt for the photo but it was uni-sex and too big and so I stashed it and wore a tank to race.
El and I headed to the start.
Although, you were supposed to line up according to your race pace. It was obvious that most did not. El and I started too far back and were hampered by the walkers for the first mile or so.
What was cool about this race is that I knew so many runners and they were all running/walking with their work teams.
Several years ago, Sawyer Fredericks (winner of The Voice and a local) sang the National Anthem. This year, it was an unknown local however, she was great.
Eventually, the race started.
Of course, it took awhile before we even moved. And we had to walk for awhile.
As I mentioned above, the walkers were missed in with the runners. So unless you were in the front and very fast, it was impossible to gain any speed. Even with the corrals, I was playing bumper cars the whole race. It seemed even more crowded this year even without the walkers in front of me. So middle of the packers, like me, just weaved in and out, bumped into people saying “excuse me” throughout the entire race.
But then again except for a chosen group of runners, it was not a “race.” It was just a way to get out of the office (or for me “home”) and get some exercise with their co-workers. Some businesses had 200-500 employees participating. There were 450 different businesses represented and 7,6000 total runner/walkers.
I think it’s a great thing. So I tried not to get annoyed or take it seriously.
In fact, this was great for me. I had the goal of NOT racing it… walking up the hills and keeping my pace between 10 and 11 minutes!!!
Back to the race…
We started up a long uphill climb which flattened until we entered the park. I ran slow and chatted with many runners that I knew.
The course continued through the park with rolling hills – one or two being rather steep. Yes, I did walk.
There was a water stop in the park around mile 1.5. I stopped and walked. It was much warmer than I had thought..
We continued in the park but eventually left onto the streets of Albany.
There was a second water stop around mile 2.5 and I stopped and walked even longer.
It was warm and very humid, so I didn’t beat myself up and walked often.
Eventually, you headed toward that downhill finish.
I was tempted to go into an all out sprint but it was a steep downhill so I had to hold back.
But when I saw the clock in the distance, I picked up the pace so that I could at least finish strong.
I crossed around 40:xx (gun time)
I was pretty happy… I had done just what I had planned and I was glad that I participated. (It’s so amazing about that “runner’s high.”)
2. Post Race Activities:
I slowly made my way back through the crowd to the team table to get the shirts that I had left there. There was no one there. In past years, there was quite a spread of refreshments and runners there planning an after race get-together. Not this year!
I was very impressed by the race organization again this year. After you picked up water, you proceeded to a tent to get your time (if you wanted). I just logged onto my phone and skipped that line.
Then you continued on to get your race shirt (if you hadn’t picked it up before the race), followed by another stop to a get fanny pack filled with some snacks. The lines moved very quickly. There were lots of volunteers to make sure everything went smoothly.
I bumped into many running friends and we chatted as we walked around the Empire State Plaza.
Eventually, I had to make the long walk back to my car…
It was over an hour after I finished but there were people still on the course… Everyone looked happy and to be having a great time.
It made me smile but I quickened my step to get to my car since it was getting late with a quick detour through the park…
sadly many of the tulips had died
But I did see this on my way back to my car:
3. Additional Race Reflections:
My finish time may have have been the slowest on this course.
2025 – 38:47 (PW)
2022 – 35:14
2019 – 32:56 (PR)
2018 – 43:19 (walked with a co-worker)
2017 – 33:40
2011 – 33:41
Nevertheless, I had lots of fun chatting with friends and meeting new runners.
To quote a past winner of the race: “Just the fact that you’re there representing your company as opposed to being in a race on your own is definitely something else that makes it extraordinary,”
Anyway I remembered the course from many years ago. It starts with a steep uphill and then flattens out. You run through the park which has rolling hills and then it ends with a steep downhill.
My First 5K and More... 