Race-cations have been an annual tradition with my running friends since 2017. We started in Corning, NY and then traveled to Montreal, and Brooklyn, NY. We’ve also rented houses in New Hampshire (2x), Maine, Finger Lakes, Cape Cod, Lake Placid and this September, it will be in MA.

However, last year’s DC race-cation came about by accident. I was having a beer with a former co-worker and a runner that I recognized was seated at the next table.  She asked me what race I was training for and I replied: “NYC Marathon.”  She said that she wanted to get into the lottery for the NYC Half in March but if she didn’t she was considering the Rock ‘n’ Roll DC Half.  I replied: “Let me know because I’d never run in DC.”

To make a long story short, she didn’t get in and texted me that she (Gail) and two other runners (Val & Ginny) were going to run the DC race and asked if I would want to join them.  I, of course, said: “Sure” without even thinking.

A few weeks later, I mentioned this race to a friend (while volunteering for STEM) and she (Sue) said that her brother and sister lived there and she liked to go.  The more, the merrier I thought. And a local running buddy, Jenn, who had moved to the DC area, said that she planned to run it, as well.

It worked out so well (except the flight on the way home) that we decided to do it again and we both agreed that we like to visit Asheville.

So I signed up for the Asheville Half Marathon for several reasons:

• A race-cation.
• My friend Sue would be racing with me  again this March.
• A New Race.
• A New City
• After the March 15 HM in NYC, I’d be trained already.
• Carpe Diem

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. But I do run shorter distances several times during the work week. My weekday runs are often solo but lately I’ve convinced Jenny to join me.

Just one run this week:

And on the weekends, I try to do my Long Run. Usually most of my miles are with one or more of my running friends. For this race, however, I felt like I was just on recovery mode from my last half marathon 6 days before.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Well, a big difference in the weather compare to what I had been running in…

My friend Sue and I took an early flight to Asheville (through Charlotte) on Friday.  No drama or delays (A miracle!!) Sue’s online friend picked us up at the airport which was very nice.

We stopped for a delicious lunch at a brewery.

We got dropped off at the hotel and after we checked  in, we headed to the expo (which conveniently was in our hotel).

It was small and we just picked up our shirts…

and bibs and got some logistical info for the next day.

We hadn’t rented a car and our hotel was in a convenient for the race but nothing else.  Luckily we were able to Uber/Lyft everywhere all weekend.

Our first Uber trip was to explore the downtown… Loved all the varied shops, restaurants and architecture

and eventually have some dinner… before Ubering back to the hotel to get ready for the next day.

Race Day:

As usual, I didn’t sleep well but had my standard race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee in my hotel room.

It was chilly in the morning but according to the forecast it would warm up big time so I wore my usual race outfit and added some throw aways.

Our hotel had a shuttle to the start.  I think the first one was at 5:30 am but since the race didn’t start until 7:30, we opted for one around 6:45.

And it only took a short time to get there.

It wasn’t as cold as I thought so those throwaways didn’t stay on long..

We immediately spotted the start line..

We were in downtown area where we had been the day before…

There were about 2000 running the race (half marathon and marathon).  Small compared to my race of 31,0000 last week end in NYC. My biggest critique would be that there was only ONE line to the portapotties..

That being said, the line moved very quickly…

I decided not to throw away my clothes but to bag check them instead. And we headed to the start line…

Both the marathoners and the half marathoners started together. Sue and I started at the same time but made plans to meet after the race

Sorry to be a broken record about not having a time goal. But my goal for races these days is to FINISH happy (that is not injured and ready to do another.)

So if I had to guestimate my time, it would have been between 2:35 and 2:45 but hey, it could be in 3 hours if my foot or back hurt or the hills killed me or I had to walk most of it.

My maps:

Yes, there were NO FLAT sections!!!

I usually recap my races mile by mile or 5k by 5k.

All I have to say was that the course was relentless hills.  Some just gradual. Some so steep that I had a hard time walking up them. At my pace, everyone else was walking up the hills as well. We all chatted and complained about the hills.

But I loved the course.  There were some out and backs so you could see the faster and slower runners. The scenery was so varied… we ran in town, in rural areas, viewed the mountains, river, mansions, Arts District, etc.

This is a fairly new course because a good part of the city was destroyed a few years ago during the hurricane.  Much has been rebuilt and this is the first year for the marathon (which apparently is flat and along the water in part). Still there is a lot of rebuilding to be done.

Thanks to Asheville Citizen Times for posting so many great photos of the course:

 

So how did the race go for me?

I made a conscious effort not to start out fast.

It was warm so I also planned to stop at every water stop and not forget to take a GU at mile 4, 8, and 12 (or there about).

I guess I am used to NYRR races where there is water at every 1-1.5 miles. There were FOUR water stops (maybe more after 13 miles):  Miles 4, 6.5, 9, 11.5 & 12.5.  I was very thirsty on this warm humid day by mile 4!!

I ran/walked every uphill and that was A LOT and I’m sure I got slower and walked more often as the race went on.

I tried to make up time on the down hills.  Why does there never seem to enough of them or as long as the up hills.

I started with the 2:30 pacer (I’m always optimistic at the start.) I quickly lost him.  I spotted another pacer without a sign.  She said that she was 2:30 but too slow today and thought she’d finish around 2:35.  I stayed near her for most of race and eventually lost her too.  The runners were very supportive and we kept each other going.

I did eat all 3 of my Gus at the appropriate times and stopped at all the water stops (but refrained from Gatorade and the snacks there.) Although it was warmer and more huid that I’m used to, I felt ok.

No pain for the most part.  My lower pain ached a little toward the end (but better than in NYC) and of course, my feet were a little sore. And I actually did not feel any after effect from running 13 mile 6 days before.  I think I felt stronger… (but those hills ate me up and spit me out!!)

It was new place and one that I wouldn’t ever visit again so I did not worry about pace and enjoyed the scenery.

Some official pics of me:

Post Race Activities:

As soon as I crossed the finish line, I grabbed my medal,

got a beer and waited for Sue.

I grabbed some snacks but didn’t eat anything since we would be going out to lunch. Then I grabbed my bag from bag check.  I was sweaty so I did put on my jacket.

We hung around until the awards ceremony.  There’s an advantage to being old.  I cam first in my age group and Sue came in 2nd.

The race finish was near the River Arts District so we walked there, had lunch, strolled the gallery (and shopped).

We headed back to the finish to catch the shuttle to our hotel.  The marathoners were still out on the course…

One good thing about taking it slow in a race is that nothing is sore and you still have plenty of energy for the rest of the day’s activities.

Afte a long hot shower, we ubered to the Botancical Gardens…

and eventually to downtown where we enjoyed a celebratory dinner…

Sue left early the next morning but I stuck around and did some more sightseeing via a trolley tour.

Additional Race Reflections:

It was so fun to be out there and soaking up the racing atmosphere. It was even more fun to run a race with friends.

Of course, initially I may have wanted a faster finish time…

I am competitive but I realized quickly that it was much more important enjoy this time with my friends and also not to be in pain.

And such a challenging course, I had no glorious expectations.

I felt fine during and after the race.

Positives:

Negatives:

• HILLS!!!!!!!!!!
• Not enough water stops for the half marathon
• Long line for the portapotties pre-race

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. yes. For all the reasons mentioned above.

Final Stats:

All in all, I was happy with my results. Yes, it was one of the slowest half marathons that I’ve ever done. My expectations have dropped significantly and I ain’t getting any younger.

Next Up:

Half Marathon #3 of 2026 and #78 lifetime. #6 for this one (but #4 on this course).

Happy Running! Have you run a 2026 big race yet? If so, how did go? Are you planning to run one? Any race-cations planned? Been to Asheville? Please share.

 

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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

 

I was hoping to run this race back when the course was only through Manhattan. (Now it starts in Brooklyn.) And I had entered the lottery several times in the past but never got in.

I finally time qualified for a guaranteed entry and ran it in March 2019.

I qualified again for 2020. Due to the Pandemic, it was cancelled and so I ran it virtually with two friends. I opted for a refund instead of a deferral.

I entered the lottery in 2021 and 2022 but didn’t get in. Instead I paid to run the Virtual NYC Half Marathon in 2022 so I would have a guaranteed entry into this race for 2023.

Then during my February vacation in Florida, I broke my foot.

It was mostly healed by race day but I wasn’t trained and so I decided to cancel and spectate my friends who were running it.

Then in 2024, I had badly sprained my ankle in December. It was healed by race day but I really didn’t feel adequately trained… and I struggled during the race.

I didn’t register for the race in 2025 (and Sherry & Stan deferred their entry).  Instead I ran the Rock n Roll Half Marathon in DC.

So, I signed up for the 2026 NYC Half Marathon for several reasons:

• I got a guaranteed entry (from my 2025 H2H finish time).
• I love NYC.
• I had almost enough pts for one free hotel room.
• It’s such a prestigious race. How could you not?
• I wanted a healthy re-do from 2024.
• For a limited time, this course would be going over the Brooklyn Bridge (this was my main reason).

Half Marathon Training:

Sickness. Freezing Temps. Snow.

Yup, these were all my excuses to not being adequately trained to run this race.  I even wondered if I should skip it…. I didn’t want to jeopardize my half marathon the week after.

In the end, I decided that since the train and hotel were booked and there was no refund if I canceled the race, I’d join Sherry and Stan.

There would be walkers finishing behind me, right?

I could just take it slow and enjoy the experience of my LAST NYC half marathon.

At least, I somehow got my long runs (9, 10, 11, 12) done..

with a taper of a 10k race.

I  didn’t get in many miles in during the work week …

So I guess I’d have fresh legs…

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

On Saturday I took an early train to NYC with my running friends Stan and Sherry who were running the race.

We were all staying in the same hotel (in the Financial District.)

After checking in, we had quick bagel lunch and then headed to the expo to pick up our shirts/bibs.  This year for the first time, the expo was held at the Javits Center (like for the NYC Marathon.) There were to be over 30,000 runners. Holy cow!

We were in and out in no time.

The obligatory wall pic:

And the shirts were lavender/light pink!?

We still had lots of time before dinner so I strolled along the East Pier.  The sun was shining brightly (and besides gusts of wind) it was a beautiful day.

Finally it was time to carb load on pizza or pasta. We took the subway to:

I don’t normally do this before a big race but we had drinks with dinner. (This was going to be a fun race, right?)

Since our restaurant was near Times Square, we got tix to the new One Times Square viewing platform.

Then we headed back downtown to our hotel to get ready for the next day.

#flatme:

Race Day:

I brought my usual race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee with me and got up around 6:00 am. I quickly put on my race outfit… Added two jackets & DIY arm sleeves as throwaways.  We decided that we’d be warm enough with the foil sheets after the race and not to check a bag.

At dinner the night before, we decided that we would take the #2 or 3 subway.

So we met in the lobby at 7:00 am and walked to the subway station which was minutes away.

We didn’t have to wait long and as you would expect the subway was packed but we all squeezed in.

This year there were 4 waves instead of 5 and we were all starting in wave 4 (the last one). We were told to get off Subway 2/3  at Grand Army Plaza and arrive by 7:20.

First you had to go through security and then find the corral entrance. Waves 2 & 4 went through security in one place and waves 1 & 3 in another (Their subway stop was 2 later, Franklin Ave).

The lines were long and they didn’t move.  I mean we stood there for almost an hour.  And it was COLD!!!!! (Everyone complained and I’m sure they will change this for next year). The only thing good was that we got to see the wheelchair racers and the elites go by as they started the race…

Our wave (4) was scheduled to open at 8:10 and close at 8:25. We made it in time.

There were tons of port-a-potties with no lines.

We started moving not long after we entered the corral but it took awhile to get to the start line being at Corral D..

I’ll do my best to recap the race below. (Warning: it’ll be long…)

My plan, as usual, was to stop and walk briefly at every water stop (so I wouldn’t get dehydrated). And of course, walk up all the hills.

Anyway, here’s how the race went.

Miles 1-5:

I immediately threw away my outer jacket and kept on the other one.

Of course, the start was very crowded and slow going at first.  In fact, I was surrounded by runners the whole race – the benefit of a big race with over 30,000 runners.

The start line was in the middle of Center Drive. We started by heading east and after a slight downhill on Center Drive, we took a sharp left onto East Drive.  We quickly reached the main hill, commonly known as “Prospect Park Hill” or “Battle Pass Hill.” I had run quite a few races in this park so I was familiar with the hill(s).  And I was feeling strong at this point but still I didn’t want to waste my energy so I ran/walked up it. I stopped at the both water stops but forgot completely about eating a my Gu.

Though I was freezing while waiting to start the race, as soon as I started running I was warm.

We exited the park at Grand Army Plaza and took some sharp turns onto Flatbush Avenue.  We were on Flatbush for the next 4 miles.  First there was a downhill along the park and then we returned back up Flatbush, through GAP, and onto a long downhill.

Eventually I did throw away my jacket and ran the rest of the race in just a long sleeve shirt (It was perfect).   I rolled down my arm sleeves and took off my gloves.

There was timing mat at 5k point and happily I couldn’t really tell my pace (since it was time that the race had started).

The tail end of mile 5 was the beginning of our approach to the Brooklyn Bridge and—yep, it went uphill. But it was the part of the race that I was looking forward to the most…

Miles 6-7:

This was the beginning of what made this race so scenic and iconicly New York. It was hard. Probably the hardest part of the course. I seemed like we went uphill forever and minimally benefited from the downhill.

But the views from the bridge were amazing. I tried to focus on all my surroundings – Freedom Tower, Empire State Building, etc. to get me over this bridge.

 

All of a sudden, I realized that I had never eaten my Gu (I usually eat one every 3-4 miles) so I ate one at the next water stop.

When we got off the bridge, we had finished more than 6 miles. The hard part over, right?

Not quite.

The start of mile 7 included two sharp turns: first onto Canal Street and then immediately onto Allen Street, where we hit the 10K timing mat.   Allen Street was surprisingly downhill as well as scenic, and this portion of the course gave us a perfect view of the bridge we just conquered.

At the end of Allen, we turned left onto South Street and ran for half a mile before merging onto FDR Drive.

Miles 8-10:

At Pier 36, we began our 8th mile and merged onto FDR Drive. This 3-mile stretch was mostly flat but included some up/down ramps. Compared to the sections both before and after, this stretch was a welcome reprieve from serious changes in elevation.

Around this time (mile 9ish), I took my second Gu at a water stop.  I walked again for too long.  I had been stopping at and walking briefly at almost every water stop.

This was only part of the course without much crowd support. The crowds were awesome throughout the race. NYC running fans rock big time!!.

The signs were awesome as well.

I loved FDR Drive for its scenic views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines as well as the UN building. Every time I see this building, I recall my childhood dream of working there someday (Even my majoring in languages in college did not get me that job.), But boy, did it seem long….

We crossed our next to last timing mat at 15k.

Finally we turned onto 42nd street.  It was uphill too. Ugh.  My legs were starting to get weary. The highlight of this section was at 3rd Avenue with the iconic Chrysler Building just ahead.

Miles 11-12

The beginning of the final 5K started a gradual uphill climb all the way to the finish! There were some ups and downs. But I focused on taking in all the sights around me -—the Chrysler building, Grand Central, the New York Public Library, and Bryant Park, etc.

When we turned right onto 7th Avenue, we were running down the middle of Times Square, a magical and memorable experience. While this was also steadily uphill, I didn’t mind. The energy was positively electric.

The highlight was that Cari and her friends were there… and although I was dragging while running down 42nd, my energy level rose just in case I spotted them in the crowd on 7th Avenue.

I did not but they did me.  I heard someone yelling my name so I turned and waved.

We hung a right onto Central Park South as we finished up mile 12 and entered the park at the southeast corner—the same corner you exit in the final stretch of the NYC Marathon.

I was glad that they eliminated most of the hills from the end of the race – No Harlem Hill or 3 Sisters. Still, my legs were toast by this time. I couldn’t wait to be done!

Mile 13- 13.XX:

We turned on the 72nd Street Transverse and would finish at the same spot as the NYC Marathon, between Sheep Meadow Park and Tavern on the Green.

There were still minor ups and downs, particularly at Bethesda Fountain,  Well, actually they all felt like ups. I walked a few extra times trying to save up enough energy to sprint through the finish line.

800m to go…400m  … 200m – it seemed endless. I kept mumbling “WTF is that finish line??”

Excited but dying…

Dead…

Yes, I dragged those legs across the finish line.

Post Race Activities:

I immediately got my medal and posed for a quick pic.

I kept walking and texted Stan (who had already finished) where I was. We met and waited for Sherry who finished just a few minutes later.

We all headed for the exit and grabbed a bag of food (filled with water, Gatorade, apple, pretzels, protein bar, etc) and a foil blanket.

It was an easy walk out of the park to Columbus Circle where we hopped a crowded subway to our downtown hotel

After a very long HOT shower, we went out for a stroll (with Stan’s son and granddaughter).  It felt great to be walking around.

And later we met for drinks (and medal pics…)

and then dinner where we celebrated with Italian food, wine and desserts.

We all agreed that it was a great day…

Additional Race Reflections:

It took me awhile to start this recap.  I wanted to make sure I focused on the positives.

Now looking back on race day, besides getting sick, missing a NYC 10k and weeks of running, I wouldn’t change a thing.

I enjoyed the day before the race.

Remember my lower back pain that had disappeared… well, it reared its ugly head right from the first step (and ended when the race was over.) I doubt that it had any negative effects on my race time but it did affect my mood.  I tried throughout the race to run with correct form but… it still ached no matter what I did…

Perhaps I shouldn’t have cancelled that last Chiro and PT appts. (Lesson learned??)

I walked at the water stops as I had planned and ran/walked all the hills (and it seemed to be mostly uphills). I tired during the last 3 miles and walked often but such is life.

The weather was perfect for sightseeing while running the course.  I didn’t miss a thing because I wasn’t concerned about my finish time.

And sharing a race with friends was the best!!!!!

And no, I have zero desire for redemption and will not run this race again!!!

It obviously is not in the cards to having a good training cycle.

The Good:

• Easy packet pick-up. Organized expo. Not too large and overwhelming.
• Bus from Mid-town to the start (if desired)
• East access to the start by subway.
• Many porta potties at the start.
• Bag Check.
• Water and Gatorade stops at almost every mile or so.
• Gels (SIS) available at several water stops
• Many porta-potties along the course.
• Music at various points along the course.
• Awesome crowd support (except FDR Drive, obviously)
• Well marked course.
• Clocks at 5k, 10k, 15k, 20k
• Pacers (useful only if you started in the correct corral). The 2:30 one was using run/walk intervals
• Gender specific long sleeve tech shirts.
• No lines for post race refreshments (gave you a bag immediately)
• Foil blankets after.
• Lots of photos (through MarathonPhoto)
• No blisters or foot pain.
• Good running weather.

The Bad:

• Time waiting on Security line!!!
• Cold early morning temps
• Long Brooklyn Bridge climb
• Hills at the end in Central Park
• Lower Back pain
• The course was LONG (at least on my Garmin))

The Ugly:

• Nothing 🙂

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes.

Do it if you can.  You won’t regret it.

No, it’s not an easy course. More than 30,000 runners are there so it is crowded. But running from Brooklyn to Manhattan is such a memorable experience (maybe I’m biased?)

Try to do it before the Brooklyn Bridge is replaced by the Manhattan Bridge…

Final Stats:

Next Up:

Happy Running!! Have you run this race?  Do you prefer big races or small ones?  Pleases share.

 

Race-cations have been an annual tradition with my running friends since 2017. We started in Corning, NY and then traveled to Montreal, and Brooklyn, NY.

In 2020 and 2021, my friends and I rented a house for 3 nights in Hampton Beach, NH and ran a half marathon (among other fun shenanigans.)

It was so much fun that the next year, we rented in Old Orchard Beach, Maine and we ran the Portland Half Marathon or Marathon Relay.

Two years ago, we stayed in NYS but rented a house in the Finger Lakes Region. We all raced different distances (5k, 13.1, 18 mi) and enjoyed ourselves (despite some rain.)

Last year we had fun during our time on Cape Cod.

We rented a house in Lake Placid (NY) this year.

So I signed up for the Lake Placid Classic Half Marathon (HM #75) for several reasons:

• A race-cation.
• Race was held on Columbus Day weekend. I would have Monday off from work.)
• My friends would be racing with me.
• Views of the Adirondack high peaks.
• There was a 5k and 10k option in addition to a half marathon.
• I was mostly trained as a result of a half marathon 5 weeks prior.

About the race:

Originally started in 1970 as a marathon run from Paul Smiths to Lake Placid, this family-friendly race has evolved into a beloved annual event featuring the beautiful Olympic Village of Lake Placid and some of the most breathtaking fall scenery in the Adirondacks. Each year an average of 550 athletes gather together for this amazing community race to help raise funds for a local cause and to enjoy the splendor of racing during peak fall foliage. 

The 2025 Lake Placid Classic Half Marathon, 10K, and—new this year!—5K begin and end at the Lake Placid Horse Show Grounds surrounded by the Olympic Ski Jumps, the 1980 Olympic Cauldron, and views of the breathtaking High Peaks. The race route encompasses two moderate hills, one at the start and one towards the end. The start time is 8:00 am, with the course closing at 12:00 pm.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. But I do run shorter distances several times during the work week.

And on the weekends, I try to do my Long Run. Usually most of my miles are with one or more of my running friends or part of another race; 5 mi+5k +2 mi, 10k, 11 mi, 10k, 5k+3 mi, 13.1. (Not exactly following my 8, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8 mile plan)

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

My taper consisted of 5k race with miles added before and after (as pictured above) and two short runs during the work week.

We carpooled and left for Lake Placid early on Friday morning. Our first stop was for lunch in Wilmington, followed by a drive up to the top of Whiteface Mountain.

At 3 pm, we met the owner of our VrBo in Lake Placid. She gave us a quick tour and then we headed to get our half marathon bib/shirts, check out the race start and parking.

Last year, everyone either ran the half marathon or the 5k.  Although this year, a 5k and 10k were offered, only four of us registered for a race and it was for the half marathon (however one was injured and couldn’t run it).  The others chose to be our cheerleaders.

We ordered pizza for dinner (of course) and ate at our house.

Finally #flatmes were organized and we headed to bed early (though I never can sleep the night before a race.)

Race Day:

Sorry to be a broken record about not having a time goal. But my goal for races these days is to FINISH happy (that is not injured and ready to do another.)

If I had to guestimate my time, it would have been between 2:30 and 2:45 (due to all the HILLS). Maybe even 3 hours if things didn’t go well.

Actually, even more important would be to run a smarter and less painful race than my last half marathon Labor Day weekend. Slower the first half so that I could enjoy the second half of the race…

The course:

Starting at the Horseshow Grounds (5514 Cascade Road), go NE into horseshow stable area. Run clockwise around stable area returning to the start line, heading towards exit of horseshow grounds. Exit heading south, up John Brown road, clockwise around John Brown circle, turning left onto western John Brown road, at the junction Old Military Road, turn left, along Old Military road until Newman road, down Newman road to Route 73 south. Cross over at Corner Store to left hand shoulder head south on Route 73. Remain on Route 73 to River road, Out and back on River road, finishing at the regular finish area on the grass of the Horse Show grounds.

As I mentioned above, only three of us were running the half which started at 8:00 am.

There were about 250 runners in the half marathon which was the most popular of the 3 races.

We left at 6:30 and easily found parking. Those not running would arrive later to cheer us on at the finish line.

It was quite chilly when we arrived and so we waited until the last minute to leave the car.

It didn’t look to be chip timed from the start so I moved up a little but didn’t didn’t want to get too close to the speedy runners. Deb and Barb moved toward the back.

I really couldn’t give you a mile by mile update of the race.  But I’ll recount what I do remember.

We left the Horseshow grounds and immediately encountered a huge hill that seemed to go on forever. For me, this was great since I always go out too fast.  I walked most of it with an occasional sprint.

I immediately regretted adding that extra shirt. I took it off and tied it around my waist.  I also had on DIY arm warmers which I rolled down and gloves that I eventually carried.  The weather was absolutely perfect. No humidity, No wind and sunny.

By the 2nd mile, there was a downhill and I was able to pick up the pace as we headed back past the start line.

I remember going through town but most of the race was on a tree-line roads with mountain and river views.  It was beautiful!!

What was not beautiful was that there was one hill after another…. (One runner said that there were 22 hills!!)

I followed my plan: walk/run/walk up the hill, sprint down it.

Barbara soon passed me. She was killing it.

There were quite a few water stops (7, I think) and although I wasn’t thirsty, I did drink water at each one.

I also ate my Gus as planned: miles 4, 8, and 12.

Around mile 4, a local friend, Gail, caught up to me.  We ran together and chatted for about a mile or two.  She was struggling with a sore hamstring and I was walking up the hills.

Eventually even with her sore leg, she ran ahead of me (though I could always see her and finished ahead of her.)

Being in the woods for most of the race, there wasn’t a lot of crowd support but those who were watching or volunteering were very enthusiastic and high fiving those who passed them.

I have to say that nothing hurt the whole race (not even my feet). My legs were never tired.  I just took in the scenery and continued up and down the hills. This may have been the first time ever that I didn’t crash and burn (or at least in a very long time.)

Around mile 9 or 10, we hit the turn around.

No difference, the downhills were now uphills and the up hills downhills.  And I continued walking when necessary and running fast when I could.

I was able to see those behind me: Deb and two other local runners.

Around mile 13, I caught up to Gail and we dragged each other up the last hill; the steepest one on the course (how cruel!)

Finally we turned into the Horseshow grounds and could see the finish line ahead.

As I approached the finish line, our friends were ringing bells and screaming my name.  It was great to have their support.  I tried to sprint and look good as I passed them.

Post Race Activities:

I got my medal and some water.

Barb had already finished (She ran a great race,) and we all waited at the finish line to cheer on Deb.

I’m not sure what the post-race refreshments were (I think bagels, fruit). I decided to wait and eat once we got home.

We checked out the results and both Barb and I won age group awards (gourmet popcorn and a coaster).

After we collected out awards, we headed home for lunch,

a long soak in the hot tub

and later out for a celebratory dinner in town.

We ended the day with drinks and s’mores.

Additional Race Reflections:

It was so fun to be out there and soaking up the racing atmosphere. It was even more fun to run a race with friends.

In past years I would have wanted a faster finish time…

I am competitive but I now know that it was much more important enjoy this time with my friends and also not to be in pain.

I felt fine the next day. We walked around Mirror Lake

and visited High Falls Gorge.

Positives:

• Part of a 4 day race-cation with friends.
• Half marathon, 10k, 5k options.
• Well-marked course.
• Easy packet pick-up.
• Long sleeved tech shirts
• Swat included a bag, beer glass and discount coupons.
• Enthusiastic volunteers.
• Friends cheering you on at the finish line.
• Instant race results.
• Nice medal provided to all runners.
• Adequate number of water stops.
• Perfect weather.
• Pretty scenery.
• Plenty of parking.
• 4 miles from our VRBO.

Negatives:

• HILLS (especially the one at the end).
• Most of my friends decided not to race.
• No photos.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. yes. For all the reasons mentioned above.

Final Stats:

All in all, I was happy with my results.  My expectations have dropped significantly and I ain’t getting any younger. Actually, it was my fastest Half marathon this year (and the most challenging.).

Next Up:

two 5ks

Happy Running! Have you run a fall race yet? If so, how did go? Are you planning to run one? Any race-cations planned? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 

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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

 

In 2021 when most of the local races either cancelled or went virtual, Albany Running Exchange (ARE) began scheduling COVID Safety Plan approved races.

That March, I ran their 5 mile race and then in May a point-to-point 10 miler.  The courses were along the Mohawk River and the bike path, mostly flat or downhill and in Schenectady, NY. (Both these races are now part of their regular schedule.)

In September of 2021 and again in 2022, 2023 and 2024, another organization (NARK) offered a half marathon (Run 4 the River) on a similar course.  Of course, I signed up (and convinced some friends to join me.)

And I signed up for the 5th annual Run 4 the River Half Marathon for several reasons:

• It was local and I could sleep in my own bed the night before.
• It was local so I would know a lot of the runners.
• I was familiar with most of the course as I had already run this half marathon FOUR times.
• I convinced a friend to run it too.
• My other running friends could meet me after their long run at Frog Alley.
• It was advertised as having a Net Downhill Course and FREE BEER, Food, and LIVE MUSIC

Honestly, this year, I mainly decided to run this race because I hadn’t run a half since April and I wanted to stay in running shape for our group race-cation in October (Lake Placid Half Marathon).

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a half marathon training plan. I usually complete three short runs during the work week. However this time, with ankle issues, vacation, being on Prednisone for 5 days (and not being allowed to run) did complicate things. I only got one short slow run done race week. And even the weeks prior, the runs were spotty.

And on the weekends, I always try to do my Long Run. I’m lucky to have the company of several running friends. Due to the extreme heat and humidity this summer, I have adopted my friends’ run/walk/run intervals.  It really helped me get through the long runs (even though we switched to 60:60 for most of them.)

Though I did complete several 5ks on the weekends, I managed to get most of my long runs done – 10, 11, 8, 11 milers (but no 12 miler this cycle 😦  )

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Since it was a point-to-point race, the logistics were 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 paid for the shuttle).

Barb and I were the only ones racing so we decided to carpool to the start.

On Friday, I picked up our bibs.

As always, I carb loaded on pizza the night before. Then I debated about what to wear the next day.

It was supposed to be cooler than my previous long runs. But still in the 60s by noon and sunny.

In the end, I wore my usual race outfit of skirt, top tank, cap, compression calf sleeves.  I added a throw away and DIY arm sleeves in case it was cool at the start.

Race Day:

As it did the previous four years, the race started at 8:00 am at Mabee Farms in Rotterdam. The race again ended at Frog Alley Brewing near Schenectady Community College (SCCC). The first year,  it ended right at the college.

So I got up around 5:15 am on Saturday morning (after a sleepless  itchy night) and was on the road by 6:15 to meet Barbara.

Some of our other friends (who were not running the race) would have parked their cars near the finish so I knew that Barbara & I could get a ride back.

When we arrived at Mabee Farms, there was plenty of parking in a grassy lot.

We were early so I had time to chat with other runners…

 and use the restrooms. We also knew that in addition to porta-potties, there would be REAL restrooms (always a great perk.)

I checked a bag with a dry shirt and my Oofos for after the race and then I ate half a Honey Stinger Waffle (since it was already hours since my breakfast).

And then we waited in Barbara’s warm car…

Finally, it was time to head to the start.

The race started promptly at 8:00 am. There were no waves or corrals… They called out finish times asking the faster runners to line up first.

As I mentioned the Lake Placid Half Marathon was my focus this fall so my goal for this race was to FINISH happy (that is not injured and ready to do another.)

All my long runs have been done slowly and with walk intervals. I discovered during my last race (which was a 5k) that it didn’t exactly make me slower (or maybe it did?) but I found it hard to run for more than a minute or two without walking… I used to be able to run 1-2 miles straight (not that it matters…)

Miles 1-3:

As I already mentioned, the race began near Mabee Farms Historical site. The first mile headed west, mostly on Route 5S. We ran along the road and fairly soon connected with the Erie Canal Bike Path.

I was determined this year to start out slower so I would not die at the end. (Spoiler alert: I did but I still died.)

Although many of friends use run/walk intervals, I would do what I normally do: run and then walk whenever tired.

I managed to run the first mile but by mile 1.5 I needed to walk. That need continued each mile and the number of times I needed to walk increased as the race progressed (Ugh!)

To make matters worse, I was very itchy when I started running and had to remind myself not to scratch my rash the entire race.

The weather was great. I rolled down my arm sleeves almost immediately and eventually took them off completely. (If it weren’t for the rash, I would have worn a tank and been compfortable.)

The canal was on our right and most of the race was run on the path with water views. Around mile 1.7, I spotted my running friend Heidi who was volunteering.

The scenery was pretty. The Mohawk River changed to being on the left eventually.

The first official water stop was a little after mile 3 at Pattersonville Bike Path parking on 5S. I  stopped but waited on my Gu until mile 4.

Miles 4-6

Barbara was behind me (since I started out too fast) but eventually (not sure when), she passed me by.

I could see her in the distance. She was getting farther and farther ahead and eventually disappearing from view, as well.

I continued to walk at least once or twice each mile.  Running just felt HARD!

There was second water stop little past mile 5 at Iroquois St/Bike Path. Again I stopped but held off on my 2nd Gu until mile 7.

And I continued to add additional walk breaks whenever there was a slight hill/incline.

Around this point, the crowd thinned out a lot and I was running mostly alone. In fact I felt alone for most of the race after mile 3.  Whenever a runner caught up to me, they then passed me.  I guess I was running pretty slow!!

Besides the water stop areas, there were few spectators due it being a bike path.

What I enjoy about races are the runners, the crowds, the energy.  Since there was none, I obviously was not having fun!!

Miles 7-10

The course was pretty flat and shady for the most part.  The temps were rising, the sun was out but it was not bad. In fact, this may have been the best weather I’ve run in.

But unfortunately I really felt like I had zero energy to go on… I felt lightheaded and nauseous. I wanted to quit but I knew I would never.

If you are wondering about my feet (as I was wearing high heel drop Brooks for the first time), my neuroma was getting achy (but I could ignore that pain.) However, due to my ankle issues, I was wearing a compression sleeve. And it was getting tighter and tighter as the miles went on.  My toes kept feeling numb. (At least that took my mind off my itchy rash.)

Plan B: run 60-80 steps and then walk 20 steps. Repeat. Keep going no matter what.

There was another water stop was a little before mile 8 at Kiwanis Park. I walked again but decided to wait on my 3rd Gu until mile 10.  My neighbor caught up to me and complimented me on my outfit and then ran ahead (to never be seen again.)

Barbara was my beacon of hope and I could see her in the distance.  But she seemed to be walking too. Eventually I caught up to her and joined her on the struggle bus. We played leap frog for a while.

Around mile 9, some annoying hills appeared. Maybe they weren’t big hills and I was just running out of gas. I tried to run up them but it was more like a slog. Though the course was advertised as flat and downhill, there were hills (not big ones) throughout. (Aren’t there always?)

Miles 11-13.1

The final water stop was a little before Mile 11 at MH Bike Path lot. I stopped again and willed myself to keep going with my run-walk strategy.

The race finish was the same as last year. We headed into the city of Schenectady.

I tried to pick up the pace and sprint through the finish line…

My friend Sherry who didn’t run the race was there cheering. It was sooo nice to see a familiar face.

This year, I remembered that you had to turn right to get to the finish line…

I was out of gas but at least it was downhill!!

Boy, was I glad to be done!! I grabbed my medal and went in search of my bag (so I could put on my Oofos and shed that compression  sleeve on my ankle)

Barbara finished right after me.

Post Race Activities:

I joined my non-racing friends Sherry and Heidi near the finish line. Heidi fetched Barbara & I a coke since we were not feeling great.

There was a band, beer, food, etc. at the restaurant where the race finished (the sponsor for the race).

It was crowded but fortunately we got a table. Rather than a boxed lunch (as the first year), you got a free beer and a choice of the food above. I chose the chicken. But I brought it home since I was not hungry.

I did take advantage of my free beer.

We stayed for a while listening to the band and chatting…about running, of course. I even bumped into a runner from CT whom we met last year at H2H.

I did check the results online and noticed that I finished 4th in my 70-99 year age group. It was the first time that I didn’t win an award at this race.

Additional Race Reflections:

Even with all my complaining above, I am glad that I ran the race. Much more fun than staying home and scratching. LOL

Yet I was disappointed. Not in my finish time. But in how unavoidable stuff disrupted my training. And how hard the last half of the race was. I should have started out slower but at the time, it didn’t feel like I was running too fast.  Perhaps I should do run-walk intervals from the start.

I guess I’ll have to run it again next year to get it right.

Positives:

• Ample parking at the start and finish.
• Bag check.
• Real Restrooms.
• Well marked course.
• Varied scenery including river views
• Shuttle to the start (if needed).
• Flatish course.
• Well organized.
• Friends supporting.
• A lot of pre-race information (though not as early as usual).
• Free Post-race food.
• Free Beer.
• Entertainment at the after party
• Cool medal.

Negatives:

• 10 year age group awards.
• No photos of everyone.
• Porta-potties only at one water stop.
• Running alone for much of the race.
• The “Rash,” the ankle sleeve and other annoying factors.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. I liked the course. It was well-organized. The after-race party was fun.

Final Stats:

Walking definitely slowed down my pace. And my foot pain probably slowed down my running pace too.  It just wasn’t my day!!

I finished this race in 2:20:57 in 2021, 2:20:53 in 2022, 2:19:21 in 2023, and last year in 2:31:30.  

But guess what? It was NOT a course PW and not a 2025 half marathon PW!!!!

(In hindsight, I am grateful that I completed the distance. IOW, never take that gift for granted!!)

Next Up:

 

 

 

 

 

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Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) 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

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.

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…

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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)

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:

Additional Race Reflections:

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

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

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.