This race is not new but I have never run it before.

Here is the description of the race from the website:

The City of Albany’s Trick or Trot Pumpkin Run is a great race for all ages, featuring a beautiful Halloween decorated course through Washington Park!

You can run or walk the course and costumes are encouraged. This race features chip timing by ARE Event Productions. All registered runners will receive a wicking fabric shirt.

Warmups and lining up by 3:15pm, race starts at 3:45pm for competitive runners who expect to finish in under 35 minutes and 4:30pm for Fun Run and Walkers who expect to finish in 35+ minutes.

Before the race, enjoy our pre-party event from 12pm – 4pm featuring FREE family friendly entertainment, including free pumpkins, candy, vendors, decorations & DJ.

Following the race, we will host an awards recognition posting of the results featuring age-based divisional awards. Additionally, we will be selecting Best Costume prizes for participating runners.

It seemed like a fun festive race so I signed up.

Big negative:

A 5k that was actually more important was being held on the same day and I registered for that race after I signed up for this one.

But as I said above, it seemed like a fun race… so WTH?

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Not much preparation for this 5k…

I ran a long run last weekend (7 mi) and a half marathon the weekend before.

I did get in a few short runs during the work week…

 

And as I mentioned above, I ran a 5k race several hours before this race!

and that race course was super hilly!!!!!!

Race Day:

Since this was the first time that I ran this race, I was not familiar with the course.

But this map was posted:

There was no elevation chart but here’s one from my Garmin:

I had picked up my bib the day before.

I knew it would be crowded on race day so I took some photos there after I picked up my bib.

I left early because I knew that it might be difficult to find on the street parking. I just grabbed a spot and walked to the park.

I arrived at the start in plenty of time so I walked around for a bit surveying the course…

and checking out ALL the costumes…

but I got chilly and so I waited in the lake house. (It was less sunny and windier than in the morning when I ran my earlier 5k.)

There I bumped into a former colleague.

There’s not much to tell with a 1.6 mile looped course but here’s what I remember:

I eventually headed to the start.

This race was chip timed so it didn’t matter where I started.

So I stood just somewhere in the middle of the pack.  I saw one runner that I knew and we chatted.

The costumes very few elaborate. I wondered how they could run in them.

There  were TWO waves for this race.

The first one started at 3:45 pm and it was for those who planned to finish under 35 minutes. (I obviously chose to run in this wave.) There were about 200 runners.

The second one would start at 4:30 pm for the slower runners and walkers.  It seemed that more people started in the 2nd wave. Their costumes were even crazier.

I did start my Garmin for this race.

At first, my feet felt like I was running in cement boots and my pace was very slow… I wondered if I would finish last.

Those morning hills affected me more than I thought.

The park is not flat but usually I can handle the hills.

Soon my legs loosened up a little and I was able to keep up my slow pace…

The whole course was decorated for Halloween… a fun way to take your mind off the miles.

There was a water stop somewhere during the first mile and the last mile.

Yes, this race had you running the course TWICE.

I have to say that I walked at both water stops and throughout whenever my legs tired (probably on the up hills).

But at least, I had enough energy to sprint through the finish line.

I crossed at 32:XX.

My first thought was “Not Bad” and then I realized that it could have been a running 5K PW.

Or a 2 5k in one day PR. LOL

Post Race Activities:

I headed to the food line which offered fruit and snacks.  They also gave you a small bag of Halloween candy.

I bumped into 2 other older ladies.  It turned out that we were all in the same age group so we stayed around for the awards.

We all won!!

Additional Race Reflections:

It was definitely a fun race. Even more fun for those younger runners who dressed up. And for families who wanted to do a race together.

I prefer to race in the morning and it wasn’t a great idea to run two races in one day.

I doubt that I will repeat this race… but maybe if I can convince friends to join me.

Positives:

• Well organized
• Well marked course
• Cute race shirts
• Some familiar faces.
• Immediate results
• Lots of excited runners, costumes and decorations
• Walkers and slower runners had a later start time

Negatives:

• Afternoon start
• Generic medal as an award
• 2 loops

Would I recommend this race?

Yes!!  A good race for those who like to dress up on Halloween.

Final Stats:

 

 

 

 

 

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Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Jenny (RunnersFly) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

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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

 

 

 

 

 

 

The FIRST year for this race.

I had taught with Carlo for over 20 years. We were exactly the same age. The date of this race coincided with his 72nd birthday.

He was an amazing coach and person.  He died suddenly last year and way too soon.

Unfortunately, being humble person, I knew little about Carlo’s running successes until after he died. (He won many races including the Philly marathon).

How could I not sign up??

Big negatives:

• I had already registered for a 5k race that was to be held that afternoon.
• I had no idea that it was to be run on the (hilly) cross country course.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Not much preparation for this 5k…

I ran a long last weekend (7 mi) and a half marathon the weekend before.

I did get in a few short runs during the work week

Here is the description of the race from the website:

The Memorial 5K … is more than just about running—it’s a chance to honor all that he meant to the AHN community and to carry forward the values he lived every day: commitment, kindness, perseverance, and heart.

All proceeds and donations from this event will support initiatives that reflect Coach Cherubino’s values and continue his legacy at Holy Names.

Race Day:

I had my standard breakfast of oatmeal and coffee. I guess I’m a creature of habit.

Since this was the first time that this race was offered, I was not familiar with the course.

There was no elevation chart and the person who was organizing the race no longer worked there.  We didn’t get the course map (below) until 2 days before the race.

When I heard that it would be a cross country race, I considered us my entry fee as a donation and skipping the race.

It didn’t start (according to the schedule) until 10 am and it was nearby.

After much deliberation, around 9:30 am, I decided to go and see who was there, interact with the alumni, etc. and then decide whether to cheer or run or maybe walk.

I was planning on 6 miles to train for the 15k race in 2 weeks, anyway.

I arrived at 9:45 am – in plenty of time. I got my bib (I hadn’t paid extra for the shirt) and bumped into many of my former students and co-workers.

Such a varied crowd.  Current students, parents, alumni and even some of Carlo’s running friends.

Unfortunately the crowd was not as big as it could have been.  They didn’t advertise it well and there were many competing events scheduled. (As expected with an inaugural event and one not organized by a runner.)

My good friend Molly (and current PE teacher) showed up to support me.

When I spotted some older folks…

I decided to give it a shot. Maybe even walk it.

Well, the race was supposed to start at 10:00 am. It did not.

There was an opening ceremony (with a very poor sound system)…

There’s not much to tell with only 1.6 miles done twice but here’s what I remember…

Can it be called a “race” recap if I didn’t race? And it wasn’t even timed (unless you finished in the top 3).

Eventually, we approached the start (a line in the grass).

I had planned to maybe walk and since there was no clock, I never bothered to start my Garmin.

But I got caught up in the excitement and started running.

It had rained the night before so we were often running on high wet grass (I did wear my trail shoes).

Up and down…

Up and down…

All along the course were signs with Carlo’s picture on them and things he used to say to the track team. (sigh)

There were also students were cheering the runners and they were very loud at every big hill.

Part of the course went through the woods.  Muddy and often slippery.

I am proud to say that I ran most of it… chatting with an older guy from time to time.

I did walk if there was a big hill… especially the one killer hill that I was not sure that I’d make it as it was so steep and muddy.

But I did.

And you had to repeat the course!!!!!!!!!!

No surprises the 2nd time around.

And I did finish! I didn’t fall and I was far from last (as some did walk it).

Post Race Activities:

As you crossed the finish line (and it was a line in the grass), they asked your name and bib number.

No results that I know of.

There was lots of goodies to munch on after.

They gave out free tee shirts with Carloisms (or Bino as they called him) on the back.

Molly and I stayed for the closing ceremonies.

They gave out medals for the top 3 men and top 3 women finishers.

I was very happy to see that the winning men were Carlo’s friends (so all still speedy and in their 70’s).

And one of female winners was one of my former French students (class of ’86).

Afterward, Molly and I went out for brunch.  I had to carb load for my next 5k (that afternoon), right?

Additional Race Reflections:

Of course, I’m glad I did this race.

My first every cross country race.

I wish that I had started my Garmin.  I wonder what my time was???? (It still counted?)

I’m sure if they continue to offer this race, there will be more runners and it will be better organized.

I might even do it again.

Positives:

• Nearby
• Great Cause
• Lots of familiar faces.
• Good post race refreshments
• Well marked course.

Negatives:

• Late start (10 am)
• Lack of info at sign up
• Hilly trail course
• Too loops.
• No Timing.
• Not well advertised.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes, if you knew Carlo. He taught here for over 40 years.  This was a great way to remember him.  He would be very happy.

Final Stats:

 

 

 

 

 

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Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Jenny (RunnersFly) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

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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

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 4th year for this race.  A downhill course.  A familiar route!! Only several miles from my home.

How could I not sign up again??

Big negative:

I was training for a half marathon the next weekend and needed at least a 8 mile long run that day.

Nevertheless, I decided to run the race as a fun run and figure a way to get in more miles, as well.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Not much preparation for this 5k…

I ran a 10k last weekend (instead of a 12 mile long run.)

I did get in a few short runs during the work week

But yesterday, I took the day off to rest… No, to go hiking!!

Needless to say, I was pooped and seriously considered staying in bed.

Here is the description of the race from the website:

The race extends from the Hilton Barn area of New Scotland to the finish line across the bridge in Slingerlands. The race kicks off the Fall Fest at the Slingerlands trailhead that will feature live musical performances, food trucks and vendors, as well as fun games and activities as participants come down the home stretch. Shuttle service will be available. T-shirts and one free meal ticket for all participants. Awards for top 3 overall Male/Female. 

Race Day:

I had my standard breakfast of oatmeal and coffee. I guess I’m a creature of habit.

Since the race didn’t start until 11 am, my plan was to run to the start, then run the 5k race, hang out with friends and then run back to my car… that would be my 8-10 mile taper long run (as half marathon was the following week).

Perfect, right?

And I did just what I planned pre-race.

Since I ran this race three times already, I was familiar with the course (as pictured below)

Race Course (according the web site)

There was no elevation chart but now I have one from my Garmin:

I arrived at the start in plenty of time.

I got my bib.

I bumped into many friends. We chatted and took a few pics.

The weather was beautiful like the first year and last year…

Unlike two years ago when it RAINED!!

There’s not much to tell with only 3.1 miles but here’s what I remember.

Can it be called a “race” recap if I didn’t race? LOL.

Mile 1: 

This race was chip timed so it didn’t matter where I started.  And there were not going to be any age group awards for me.

Plus I was already tired from my 5 mile pre-race run…

So I stood just somewhere in the middle of the pack.

Although it was advertised as starting at the barn and going downhill from there on the rail trail, you actually had to run around the nearby neighborhood (in order to get to 3.1 miles by the parking lot).

At first, my feet felt like I was running in cement boots and my pace was very slow…

And running through the neighborhood, it was not down hill yet…It didn’t seem to bother the leaders.  Many were running at a 5 minute pace.  I think the winner actually finished the race with an under 5 minute pace.

The only positive part about circling the neighborhood was that I could run the tangents…

Eventually you did enter the rail trail and yes, it was oh so slightly downhill but at least there were no uphills.

Soon my legs loosened up and I was able to up my pace…

Mile 2: 

I believe the first year, there were no water stops but this year there was one around mile 2.

It started to feel very summer-like.  I was thirsty and so I stopped for a drink.

Believe it or not, this was my FIRST walk… You may remember from previous races that I walk often… even during a 5k.

Today for some reason, I felt stronger.

Mile 3 – 3.1: 

I started to tire during the last mile and my pace slowed a bit but I was determined to keep running and not walk!

Eventually you could hear the crowd cheering (there was little crowd support on the course at all due to being on the rail trail.

I could see the finish line ahead and sprinted through it as Josh (the RD) called my name.

My running friend Barb (and grandson) were there, as well as, my BFF.

Post Race Activities:

I grabbed some water and an apple and headed to get my shirt and food coupon.

Then I went back to the finish line to cheer Heidi in.

This race was also part of a Fall Festival put on by the county.

In a nearby park, there were information tables (they even gave out many freebies.)

I hung out with my BFF for a while.

I picked up some freebies (that I gave to Heidi) and even a free hot dog, cookie, shot of flavored vodka.

My running friends went to get some food from the food trucks…and so I joined them.  The wait was forever so we ordered our food and went exploring.

Still waiting so we resorted to a free hamburger.  Eventually our food came and I only had the drink and fries (brought the rest home to my hubby).  But we sat and listened to the band (that was excellent) enjoying the beautiful weather.

Unfortunately I needed to get back to my car… a LONG HOT 2.5 miles away.  I dragged myself there (running some but mostly walking).

Additional Race Reflections:

I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this race. If I am around, I will probably run it again next year.

The past few years, I’ve mostly focused on half marathons but maybe next year, I will try to work on my 5k speed.

I doubt I’ll ever PR again. But I’d like to go back to sub-30 finish times.  But I need to either train to get faster or pace myself better so I don’t die during the last mile.

However, I am happy to be healthy, to be running regularly and interacting with others.

If my race times slow down, so be it.

Positives:

• Well organized
• Participant guide provided beforehand
• Inexpensive ($10)
• Well marked course
• Shuttle to the start from the finish and vice versa.
• Cute race shirts
• Lots of familiar faces.
• Downhill course
• Immediate results
• One free meal ticket for all participants.
• Free hamburgers & hot dogs
• Entertainment after.

Negatives:

• I could run here for FREE!
• Late start (11 am)
• Weird age group awards (top 3 and 0-35, 35-55?)
• Long wait for food
• No photos

Would I recommend this race?

Yes!!  A good race to try for a 5K PR.

Final Stats:

 

 

 

 

 

---

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Jenny (RunnersFly) 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

 

 

 

 

 

 

This race used to be one of my favorites. Not because the director, Paul Loomis, reads my blog or that my stepson works at Global Foundries, one of the sponsors of the race. But because of the easy parking, indoor restrooms, post race chocolate milk, generous age group awards, lots of familiar faces to run with and its flawless organization.  For these reasons and more, I kept coming back.

This was my 8th time running the 5k. So you can say that I was familiar with this course. I skipped 2017-2020 but I did run it in 2022 and 2022 and now again. At one time, they even added a 10k.

The course itself is not very exciting…you are running around chip plants not once but but twice during the race. The loops let you see the fast runners and all those runners that are behind you. And though there are a few uphills and downhills, it’s basically flat so no complaints.

For my first two years of running this race, I was recovering from injuries (a broken ankle and then a broken foot.) I finished in 29:53 and 29:49 and was thrilled with a sub-30 minute time. In 2014 and 2015, I was healthy and so I improved my time to 28:47 and 28:56. Finally I got a course PR in 2016 and finished in 27:30. As I mentioned, I took a break and in 2021 when I ran it, I finished in 28:04 and in 2022 28:46 .

However, my hope for the race this year was to finish uninjured and have enough in the tank to run more miles after the race. (My next half marathon is 5 weeks away!  )

Based on my recent 5k efforts (all around 31-32  minutes), I had no PR dreams as old age has set in. LOL. But if the other old ladies didn’t show up, I could maybe win an AG award.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Due to my sleep and rash issues, there was not running during the week.

My legs felt pretty good even though it was only a week after running 13.1 miles.

Packet pick-up was on Thursday and Friday at the local Fleet feet store but it wasn’t worth the long drive so I decided to arrive early and pick it up on race day.

Race Day:

The forecast was for cooler weather and sunshine. Perfect running weather for the second weekend in a row. Hope this is a trend.

I got there early to get parking and did get a spot in the parking lot right near the exit.  I’m glad I got there when I did because the lots really filled up quickly. There seemed to be more runners this year.

As I’ve mentioned, it is very well-organized – signs for the race, indoor and outdoor bathrooms.

Race day packet pick-up was between 7-8 am. If you paid an extra $10, you a long sleeved shirt. I opted not to buy a shirt.

The 5k race started at 8:30 am. So I walked around to shake out the legs.

There was food, drinks and freebies set up. I grabbed a bag and filled it with some useful stuff.

This was a welcome sight:

I bumped into quite a few runners that I knew:

Finally I headed to the start line.

I remembered that although it was chip-timed, awards were given according to gun time.  So I moved up but of course, not too close to the starting line.

Mile 1:

As usual, I tried to start out slow but didn’t.  It again was my fastest mile and the only one where I didn’t have to walk during.

I was able to run until the mile 1 sign and then I walked.

Mile 2:

The course goes straight for about 1.5 miles and then loops back.  There was a water stop during this mile that you passed twice.

Halfway through this mile we turned right and ran uphill. Not a steep hill but they always feel hard to me. I tried not to walk until the mile 2 sign but I’m pretty sure that I had to stop. I think it was at the water stop.

This part of the course is nice because you get to see the faster runners and then you loop back and see the slower runners.

It was downhill for a bit until we turned.

Mile 3-3.1:

As usual, I was petering out. And since rain was predicted for later, it was quite humid.

So I walked at the 2nd water stop. Then I got back my energy for a while until I neared the finish line.

I was dragging but did my best to sprint through the finish line (as the timing director called out my name.)

I was surprised to see 30:xx as I hit the finish line.. I had expected much worse.

After you crossed the finish line, they gave you a sticker.

Post Race:

The refreshments were outside again this year. I grabbed some chocolate milk and fruit and chatted while waiting for the results to be posted.  If I didn’t win, I wanted to take off so I could get in some more miles before meeting friends for brunch..

When I ran this race (in 2016), everyone got a small bottle of champagne and a gift card to a restaurant. For 2nd place, it was to the Recovery Room restaurant and for $50. In 2021, there was no awards ceremony and if you won an award, you had to pick it up at the local Fleet Feet store. It was gift card but I never picked it up. In 2022, I won 3rd place that year and received a Starbucks metal water bottle, a bottle of champagne and a medal.. (I think I got my $ worth!)

I won my age group this year and the prize was a medal and a gift card to a wine/liquor store.

After I got my award, I left and drove to the Zim Smith bike path. (It was close to the race so my friends picked it as their running meet-up.)

Unfortunately the awards ceremony took longer than expected and I was only had time for 3 miles before our brunch meeting time. (I had hoped for 6…)

Additional Race Reflections:

The weather was lovely.  I always enjoy the race atmosphere.  This one did not disappoint.

My finish time was slower than previous years but that was not unexpected. Another course PW. BUT it was my fastest 5k  of 2025!!!

I’d love to be back finishing 5ks in 27-28 minutes.

Not thinking that will happen but it may if I could run negative splits or a more even pace.

Oh well, there will be more 5k races. Just happy to be to out there and healthy enough to run.

Positives:

• Ample parking.
• Well marked course.
• A no shirt option (at a lower cost)
• Discounted price if you are over 70.
• Participant manual provided several days before the race.
• Indoor restrooms
• Flatish course.
• Immediate results.
• Chocolate milk.
• Free swag
• Great age groups award swag
• Great cause (1st responders – $40K)

Negatives:

• None except that the course was a little boring…

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Great organization.

Final Stats:

Next Up:

A 10k on Sept 13:

Happy Running! Did you run or race this past weekend? Any Fall races on your schedule yet? Do you enjoy 5ks?

Please share.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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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