My Profile

@seagroves87

Rochester, NY Raving since 2020 50 States hopeful/finisher, 100 Half Marathons Club, Seven Continents Club, Marathon Maniacs #15648, Half Fanatics #18410 Active 5 hours, 9 minutes ago

About Me

  • Running club(s):

    NYRR, Greater Rochester Track Club, Greater Derry Track Club, 50 States Half Marathon Club

  • Rave race:

    Los Angeles Marathon 2020

  • Race that's calling my name:

    New York City Marathon

  • I run because:

    Running changed my life! I started running again after a many year hiatus to curb some bad habits and get a more positive outlook on life. As a result I am a much happier, healthier person since I started running again in Fall 2018 and I have no plans to stop any time soon! My ultimate goal is to run a half marathon or longer in every state, province and continent!

My Races

Organize, track & review your races and personal bests here.

50 States Map
image/svg+xml FL TX NM AZ AK CA NV UT CO OR WA ID HI OK MT WY ND SD NE KS MN IA MO AR LA MS AL GA SC IL WI MI IN OH TN KY NC WV VA PA NY ME VT NH RI CT NJ DE MD MA DC

Half Marathon

Marathon

Ultramarathon

(Marathon or Ultra) + Half

Marathon + Ultra

Other

Future Races

Personal Bests (31)

Race Distance Location Date Result
Sprint Silver Lake, NY Sep 26, 2021 2:38:44
12 hr Honeoye Falls, NY Jul 17, 2021 17.12 mi
6 hr Shortsville, NY Nov 20, 2021 16.1 mi
Marathon Los Angeles, CA Mar 8, 2020 5:20:34
30K Pacoima, CA Feb 9, 2020 3:45:00
25K Bath TWP, OH Nov 22, 2020 3:16:29
Half Marathon Pasadena, CA Jan 19, 2020 2:21:41
10 Miler Huntington Beach, CA Sep 21, 2019 1:48:52
10 Mile Relay Auburn, NH Aug 27, 2022 1:52:38
9.3 Challenge (5K + 10K) Los Angeles, CA Jan 5, 2020 1:39:01
15K Philadelphia, PA Apr 2, 2022 1:50:28
8 Miler Ellicottville, NY Aug 16, 2020 1:56:45
Quarter Marathon Liverpool, NY Feb 12, 2022 1:25:37
10K Los Angeles, CA Nov 28, 2019 59:39
6 Miler Voorheesville, NY Oct 31, 2021 1:42:19
5 Miler Clyde, NY Nov 21, 2020 51:54
8K Rochester, NY Jul 21, 2021 52:28
7.7K Salem, NH May 20, 2023 56:41
4.5 Miler Honeoye Falls, NY Oct 18, 2020 1:06:04
4.4 Miler Webster, NY Nov 25, 2021 45:24
7K Gulf Shores, AL Jan 28, 2023 48:20
4 Miler New York City, NY Dec 13, 2020 45:07
3.5 Miler Webster, NY Sep 4, 2021 54:14
3.4 Miler Lewiston, NY Aug 9, 2021 45:06
3.3 Miler Brooklyn, NY Dec 12, 2020 36:28
3.14 Miler Baldwinsville, NY Mar 14, 2021 32:44
5K Los Angeles, CA Dec 14, 2019 28:40
3 Miler Bedford, NH Jan 17, 2021 31:03
2.2 Miler Auburn, NY Sep 19, 2021 25:02
2 Miler Manchester, NH Mar 26, 2023 33:48
1 Miler Londonderry, NH Jan 1, 2021 7:55

Future Races (49)

Race Distance Location Date Paid
5K Henrietta, NY Jun 3, 2023
5K Savannah, NY Jun 4, 2023
1 Miler Rochester, NY Jun 9, 2023
9 hr Victor, NY Jun 10, 2023
Half Marathon Lake Placid, NY Jun 11, 2023
Half Marathon Anchorage, AK Jun 17, 2023
5K Seneca Falls, NY Jul 1, 2023
Half Marathon Waitsfield, VT Jul 9, 2023
10K New London, CT Jul 15, 2023
Half Marathon Easton, MA Jul 16, 2023
9K Boston, MA Jul 22, 2023
5 Miler Merrimack, NH Jul 23, 2023
5K Estes Park, CO Jul 28, 2023
Half Marathon Estes Park, CO Jul 29, 2023
10K Cape Elizabeth, ME Aug 5, 2023
Half Marathon Rockport, MA Aug 6, 2023
Half Marathon Hudson, WI Aug 12, 2023
10 Mile Relay Manchester, NH Aug 26, 2023
Half Marathon St George, ME Aug 27, 2023
Half Marathon Waterville Valley, NH Sep 2, 2023
Half Marathon New Haven, CT Sep 4, 2023
Half Marathon Westerly, RI Sep 10, 2023
Half Marathon Keene, NH Sep 24, 2023
Half Marathon Milwaukee, WI Oct 1, 2023
Half Marathon Staten Island, NY Oct 8, 2023
Half Marathon Hartford, CT Oct 14, 2023
Half Marathon Lowell, MA Oct 15, 2023
Half Marathon Concord, NH Oct 22, 2023
3K Manchester, NH Oct 28, 2023
Half Marathon Newburyport, MA Oct 29, 2023
Italian Stallion Challenge (10 Mile + 5K) Philadelphia, PA Nov 11, 2023
Half Marathon Williamstown, NJ Nov 12, 2023
Half Marathon Norfolk, VA Nov 19, 2023
Half Marathon Memphis, TN Dec 2, 2023
5K Biloxi, MS Dec 9, 2023
Half Marathon Biloxi, MS Dec 10, 2023
4 Miler Mendon, NY 2023
5K Rochester, NY 2023
Half Marathon Lahaina, HI Jan 14, 2024
Half Marathon Pasadena, CA Jan 21, 2024
Half Marathon Melbourne, FL Feb 11, 2024
Half Marathon Wells, ME May 4, 2024
Half Marathon Conway, NH May 5, 2024
Half Marathon Hermosa, SD 2024
14 Miler White Sands, NM 2024
Half Marathon Fargo, ND 2024
Half Marathon King George Island, Antarctica 2025
Half Marathon Eugene, OR 2025
Half Marathon Helsinki, Finland 2026

Past Races (259)

Race Distance Location Date Result My Raves My Performance
Half Marathon Potomac, MD May 29, 2023
Half Marathon Buffalo, NY May 28, 2023
5K Buffalo, NY May 27, 2023
5 Miler Rochester, NY May 24, 2023 1:04:56
Half Marathon Mystic, CT May 21, 2023 2:56:33
7.7K Salem, NH May 20, 2023 56:41
5K Dryden, NY May 14, 2023 41:44
Half Marathon Ellicottville, NY May 13, 2023 3:09:50
5 Miler Henrietta, NY May 7, 2023 1:36:10
5K Naples, NY May 6, 2023 38:33
Half Marathon Oklahoma City, OK Apr 30, 2023 3:10:07
Half Marathon Rochester, NY Apr 23, 2023 3:08:19
Half Marathon Derry, NH Apr 16, 2023 3:15:06
Half Marathon Albany, NY Apr 15, 2023 2:58:56
Half Marathon Cleveland, OH Apr 8, 2023 3:29:42
5K Rochester, NY Apr 2, 2023 44:11
5K Syracuse, NY Apr 1, 2023 39:29
2 Miler Manchester, NH Mar 26, 2023 33:48
Half Marathon Manchester, NH Mar 25, 2023 2:56:29
Half Marathon Virginia Beach, VA Mar 19, 2023 3:19:09
Half Marathon Washington, DC Mar 18, 2023 3:17:53
Half Marathon Burlington, Canada Mar 5, 2023 2:54:59
Half Marathon Tucson, AZ Feb 18, 2023 3:34:05
Half Marathon Melbourne, FL Feb 12, 2023 3:26:12
3 Miler Rochester, NY Feb 5, 2023 42:00
Half Marathon Gulf Shores, AL Jan 29, 2023 2:55:44
7K Gulf Shores, AL Jan 28, 2023 48:20
Half Marathon New York, NY Jan 22, 2023 3:24:07
Half Marathon Daufuskie Island, SC Jan 14, 2023 3:05:47
Half Marathon Rochester, NY Jan 7, 2023 3:08:26
5 Miler Rochester, NY 2023 1:04:56
1 Miler Londonderry, NH Jan 1, 2023 9:24
3 Miler Rochester, NY Dec 18, 2022 39:27
5K Rochester, NY Dec 10, 2022 36:23
Marathon Folsom, CA Dec 4, 2022 6:33:57
Half Marathon Seattle, WA Nov 27, 2022 3:10:43
1 Miler Shortsville, NY Nov 19, 2022 19:06
Half Marathon Kitty Hawk, NC Nov 13, 2022 3:39:26
5K Kitty Hawk, NC Nov 12, 2022 1:00:58
Half Marathon Louisville, KY Nov 6, 2022 3:27:19
Half Marathon Indianapolis, IN Nov 5, 2022 3:00:23
Half Marathon Portsmouth, NH Oct 30, 2022 2:52:30
5K Rochester, NY Oct 29, 2022 39:03
5K Bridgeport, NY Oct 23, 2022 34:43
5K Hamlin, NY Oct 22, 2022 38:37
5K East Rochester, NY Oct 22, 2022 35:55
Half Marathon Des Moines, IA Oct 16, 2022 2:54:09
Half Marathon Kansas City, MO Oct 15, 2022 3:24:06
7K Le Roy, NY Oct 8, 2022 57:18
Half Marathon Portland, ME Oct 2, 2022 3:19:24
Half Marathon Bristol, NH Oct 1, 2022 3:02:48
Half Marathon Rochester, NY Sep 25, 2022 3:10:21
Half Marathon Randolph, NY Sep 24, 2022 3:33:03
10 Miler Bronx, NY Sep 18, 2022 2:31:32
Half Marathon Southampton, NY Sep 17, 2022 2:48:30
10K Spicewood, TX Sep 9, 2022 1:57:18
10K Rochester, NY Sep 4, 2022 1:21:35
5K Canandaigua, NY Sep 3, 2022 46:02
5K Webster, NY Sep 2, 2022 43:23
10 Mile Relay Auburn, NH Aug 27, 2022 1:52:38
5K Honeoye Falls, NY Aug 24, 2022 44:27
1 Miler Rochester, NY Aug 23, 2022 9:36
5K Chicago, IL Aug 20, 2022 40:30
5K Rochester, NY Aug 17, 2022 37:34
5K Bergen, NY Aug 13, 2022 39:03
15K Buffalo, NY Aug 7, 2022 2:07:38
5K Phelps, NY Aug 6, 2022 44:09
5K Honeoye Falls, NY Aug 3, 2022 42:46
5K Washington, DC Jul 31, 2022 41:25
Half Marathon Penn Yan, NY Jul 23, 2022 3:42:22
8K Rochester, NY Jul 20, 2022
5K Rochester, NY Jul 17, 2022 39:23
5K Hamlin, NY Jul 16, 2022 41:36
12 hr Honeoye Falls, NY Jul 16, 2022 7 mi
15K Utica, NY Jul 10, 2022 2:17:55
2 Miler Rochester, NY Jul 4, 2022 38:49
5K Sodus Point, NY Jul 2, 2022 57:57
5K Irondequoit, NY Jun 25, 2022 51:52
Half Marathon West Yellowstone, MT Jun 11, 2022 3:43:28
5K West Yellowstone, MT Jun 10, 2022 49:52
Half Marathon St Charles, ID Jun 9, 2022 3:22:27
Half Marathon Wilson, WY Jun 4, 2022 3:22:58
5K Wilson, WY Jun 3, 2022 40:01
Half Marathon Buffalo, NY May 29, 2022 3:24:34
5K Buffalo, NY May 28, 2022 35:50
Half Marathon Chicago, IL May 22, 2022 3:07:36
5K Williamson, NY May 20, 2022 38:34
5K Geneva, NY May 14, 2022 36:53
Half Marathon Oakhurst, CA May 7, 2022 3:20:45
Half Marathon Newport Beach, CA May 1, 2022 2:53:34
5K Costa Mesa, CA Apr 30, 2022 39:27
Half Marathon Rochester, NY Apr 24, 2022 2:57:21
Half Marathon Derry, NH Apr 10, 2022 2:44:42
5K Concord, NH Apr 9, 2022 53:00
Half Marathon Atlantic City, NJ Apr 3, 2022 2:45:37
15K Philadelphia, PA Apr 2, 2022 1:50:28
Half Marathon New York City, NY Mar 20, 2022 2:56:31
Half Marathon New Port Richey, FL Mar 13, 2022 2:42:56
Half Marathon Little Rock, AR Mar 6, 2022 2:58:54
5K Little Rock, AR Mar 5, 2022 53:03
Half Marathon Atlanta, GA Feb 27, 2022 3:07:16
5K Atlanta, GA Feb 26, 2022 54:16
5 Miler Webster, NY Feb 20, 2022 1:44:39
4.4 Miler Webster, NY Feb 19, 2022 56:27
Quarter Marathon Liverpool, NY Feb 12, 2022 1:25:37
Half Marathon Miami, FL Feb 6, 2022 3:09:45
5K Miami, FL Feb 5, 2022 36:48
Half Marathon Baton Rouge, LA Jan 16, 2022 2:57:09
5K Allen, TX Jan 1, 2022 53:32
Half Marathon Allen, TX Dec 31, 2021 3:14:20
5K Allen, TX Dec 31, 2021 43:59
5K Montclair, NJ Dec 12, 2021 36:17
Half Marathon New York, NY Dec 11, 2021 2:43:54
Half Marathon Haverhill, MA Dec 5, 2021 2:54:08
3 Miler Manchester, NH Dec 4, 2021 32:31
5K Swampscott, MA Nov 28, 2021 52:55
4 Miler Concord, NH Nov 27, 2021 50:55
5K Amherst, NH Nov 26, 2021 35:08
4.4 Miler Webster, NY Nov 25, 2021 45:24
5K Buffalo, NY Nov 21, 2021 37:45
6 hr Shortsville, NY Nov 20, 2021 16.1 mi
5K Washington, DC Nov 14, 2021 35:03
Half Marathon Richmond, VA Nov 13, 2021 2:37:32
Half Marathon Relay Manchester, NH Nov 7, 2021 2:25:32
5K Manchester, NH Nov 6, 2021 32:51
6 Miler Voorheesville, NY Oct 31, 2021 1:42:19
Half Marathon West Haven, CT Oct 30, 2021 2:42:53
Half Marathon Ann Arbor, MI Oct 24, 2021 2:47:29
5K Akron, OH Oct 23, 2021 32:23
10K Lackawanna, NY Oct 17, 2021 1:14:15
10K Syracuse, NY Oct 16, 2021 1:14:52
Marathon Wichita, KS Oct 10, 2021 5:53:42
Half Marathon Hampton, NH Oct 3, 2021 2:28:50
5K Nashua, NH Oct 2, 2021 34:41
Sprint Silver Lake, NY Sep 26, 2021 2:38:44
Half Marathon Randolph, NY Sep 25, 2021 3:12:46
2.2 Miler Auburn, NY Sep 19, 2021 25:02
5K Watkins Glen, NY Sep 18, 2021 36:00
5K Canandaigua, NY Sep 18, 2021 36:45
Half Marathon Westerly, RI Sep 12, 2021 2:38:56
Half Marathon Manchester Center, VT Sep 11, 2021 2:50:12
5K Groton, NY Sep 6, 2021 37:09
5K Geneseo, NY Sep 5, 2021 35:55
3.5 Miler Webster, NY Sep 4, 2021 54:14
5K Webster, NY Sep 3, 2021 30:49
Half Marathon Mendon, NY Aug 29, 2021 2:38:43
5K Weedsport, NY Aug 28, 2021 33:35
1 Miler Rochester, NY Aug 26, 2021 8:28
5K Rochester, NY Aug 25, 2021 35:58
5 Miler Henrietta, NY Aug 21, 2021 1:12:03
5K Honeoye Falls, NY Aug 18, 2021 37:25
5K Chicago, IL Aug 14, 2021 32:36
5 Miler Churchville, NY Aug 11, 2021 1:14:03
3.4 Miler Lewiston, NY Aug 9, 2021 45:06
Half Marathon Emporium, PA Aug 8, 2021 2:44:35
10K Emporium, PA Aug 7, 2021 1:13:49
5K Emporium, PA Aug 7, 2021 35:00
5K Batavia, NY Aug 5, 2021 32:38
5K Honeoye Falls, NY Aug 4, 2021 35:03
Half Marathon Washington, DC Aug 1, 2021 2:44:07
5K Wilkes-Barre, PA Jul 31, 2021 34:14
5K Kennedyville, MD Jul 31, 2021 35:55
Half Marathon Mt Jewett, PA Jul 25, 2021 2:55:36
5K Liverpool, NY Jul 24, 2021 32:26
5K Mt Jewett, PA Jul 24, 2021 36:42
8K Rochester, NY Jul 21, 2021 52:28
5K Mendon, NY Jul 17, 2021 41:28
12 hr Honeoye Falls, NY Jul 17, 2021 17.12 mi
5K Auburn, NY Jul 14, 2021 34:49
10K Palmerton, PA Jul 11, 2021 2:22:32
Half Marathon Hamlin, NY Jul 10, 2021 2:35:07
5 Miler Webster, NY Jul 7, 2021 1:30:38
10K Rochester, NY Jul 4, 2021 1:14:27
5K Fairport, NY Jul 3, 2021 33:27
5K Savannah, NY Jun 27, 2021 36:56
5K Buffalo, NY Jun 26, 2021 32:08
5K Hampton, NH Jun 20, 2021 34:19
Half Marathon Rochester, NY Jun 19, 2021 2:40:27
5K Rochester, NY Jun 16, 2021 32:31
Half Marathon Wilmington, DE Jun 13, 2021 2:46:00
Half Marathon Philadelphia, PA Jun 12, 2021 2:46:31
5K Dundee, NY Jun 6, 2021 42:37
5K Henrietta, NY Jun 5, 2021 33:55
4 Miler Mendon, NY Jun 4, 2021 1:17:00
Half Marathon Potomac, MD May 31, 2021 2:39:24
5K Lorton, VA May 30, 2021 36:56
Half Marathon Purcellville, VA May 29, 2021 2:44:02
10K Rochester, NY May 23, 2021 1:10:59
Marathon Cary, NC May 15, 2021 5:49:31
Half Marathon Shelburne, VT May 8, 2021 2:44:57
5 Miler Rochester, NY May 5, 2021 54:45
Half Marathon Canton, OH May 2, 2021 2:44:45
5K Canton, OH May 1, 2021 32:30
Half Marathon Gettysburg, PA Apr 25, 2021 2:37:11
5K Bronx, NY Apr 24, 2021 56:54
5K Baldwinsville, NY Apr 18, 2021 32:25
50K Virgin, UT Apr 10, 2021 9:44:46
10 Miler Salt Lake City, UT Apr 3, 2021 2:10:00
5K Albion, NY Mar 27, 2021 30:42
Half Marathon Virginia Beach, VA Mar 21, 2021 2:34:15
8K Virginia Beach, VA Mar 20, 2021 57:05
3.14 Miler Baldwinsville, NY Mar 14, 2021 32:44
10K Washington, DC Mar 7, 2021 1:10:26
10K Lorton, VA Mar 6, 2021 1:14:18
Marathon Las Vegas, NV Feb 27, 2021 5:57:07
5 Miler Webster, NY Feb 20, 2021 1:51:20
3 Miler Rochester, NY Feb 14, 2021 41:37
Half Marathon Melbourne, FL Feb 7, 2021 2:42:08
3 Miler Bedford, NH Jan 17, 2021 31:03
5K Johnson City, NY Jan 10, 2021 35:27
Half Marathon Fairmont, WV Jan 9, 2021 2:29:49
1 Miler Londonderry, NH Jan 1, 2021 7:55
Half Marathon Brooklyn, NY Dec 20, 2020 2:41:51
5 Miler New York City, NY Dec 19, 2020 52:28
4 Miler New York City, NY Dec 13, 2020 45:07
3.3 Miler Brooklyn, NY Dec 12, 2020 36:28
5K New York Mills, NY Dec 6, 2020 32:53
Half Marathon Mahwah, NJ Dec 5, 2020 4:24:42
5K Henrietta, NY Nov 28, 2020 34:43
25K Bath TWP, OH Nov 22, 2020 3:16:29
5 Miler Clyde, NY Nov 21, 2020 51:54
3 Miler Honeoye Falls, NY Nov 13, 2020 55:05
5K Honeoye Falls, NY Nov 11, 2020 34:47
Marathon Manchester, NH Nov 8, 2020 5:48:56
5K Manchester, NH Nov 7, 2020 34:54
5 Miler Rochester, NY Oct 31, 2020 59:26
Half Marathon Ellicottville, NY Oct 24, 2020 2:29:16
4.5 Miler Honeoye Falls, NY Oct 18, 2020 1:06:04
5 Miler Erie, PA Oct 17, 2020 56:43
Half Marathon Concord, NH Oct 11, 2020 2:24:36
5K Rochester, NY Oct 10, 2020 32:22
Half Marathon Victor, NY Sep 27, 2020 3:28:33
Half Marathon Randolph, NY Sep 26, 2020 2:54:30
5 Miler Victor, NY Sep 25, 2020 1:26:12
5 Miler South Hero, VT Sep 20, 2020 52:46
Marathon Wellsboro, PA Sep 12, 2020 5:33:25
4.5 Miler Henrietta, NY Sep 9, 2020 1:09:08
10 Miler Auburn, NH Aug 29, 2020 1:55:30
3 Miler Henrietta, NY Aug 22, 2020 36:03
8 Miler Ellicottville, NY Aug 16, 2020 1:56:45
Half Marathon Hamlin, NY Aug 8, 2020 2:28:55
Half Marathon Canandaigua, NY Jul 24, 2020
Half Marathon Virgin, UT Jun 6, 2020 3:02:56
Marathon Los Angeles, CA Mar 8, 2020 5:20:34
10K Lake View Terrace, CA Feb 23, 2020 1:03:29
10K Los Angeles, CA Feb 16, 2020 1:06:04
30K Pacoima, CA Feb 9, 2020 3:45:00
Half Marathon Huntington Beach, CA Feb 2, 2020 2:26:29
Half Marathon Pasadena, CA Jan 19, 2020 2:21:41
9.3 Challenge (5K + 10K) Los Angeles, CA Jan 5, 2020 1:39:01
5K Los Angeles, CA Dec 14, 2019 28:40
10K Los Angeles, CA Nov 28, 2019 59:39
Marathon Long Beach, CA Oct 13, 2019 5:33:45
10 Miler Huntington Beach, CA Sep 21, 2019 1:48:52
10K Santa Monica, CA Sep 8, 2019 1:06:11
10K Los Angeles, CA Aug 10, 2019 1:05:57
10K Coto de Caza, CA Jun 28, 2019 1:23:38
Half Marathon San Diego, CA Jun 2, 2019 2:26:59
Half Marathon Irvine, CA Mar 17, 2019 2:30:24

My Raves

I'm happy the dirt cheap trail races are back. These are low-key, cheap mid week trail races produced by Yellow Jacket Racing that occur in various parks in the Rochester … MORE

I’m happy the dirt cheap trail races are back. These are low-key, cheap mid week trail races produced by Yellow Jacket Racing that occur in various parks in the Rochester area. The series was put on hold last year but is back this year. Unfortunately it looks like this will be the only race I will be able to do as I am moving out of Rochester the first weekend of July and my travel plans to Alaska now interfere with the next race. I have done most of the dirt cheap races 2 years ago but there were some covid modifications. This year everything is back to normal. I believe you do get a shirt or other swag item if you sign up for the series but since I am moving I did not. For individual races there is no swag but these are dirt cheap so it is fine. I got my bib the day before at the store and just came to the race after work on Wednesday. The race was well organized. It is chipped time but only at the finish. The start and finish are right next to each other. The start had some flags and the finish a dirt cheap arch. The course seemed to be backwards from last year from what I can remember. It is pretty tough and there is a lot of elevation but there are some nice, runnable sections too. The park was very scenic. I like this run as there are lovely lake views. The course was extremely well marked. Tons of flags. I don’t think there was a time I could not see a flag which is how I like trail races. I was really slow as I have not been trail running as much this year since I am still working on building up speed on the road but I had a fun time. After you cross the finish line they had hot dogs, chips and soda and I was happy they had veggie dogs. Overall this is a fun, tough series but the races are not too long and there are some walkers so even if you are slow or intimidated by trail these are fun to do. If I were staying in Rochester I would definitely continue to do this series.

DIFFICULTY
5
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
1

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

This is a half marathon produced by Hartford Marathon Foundation. They produce great races but have kind of tight time limits. I was planning to be in New England this … MORE

This is a half marathon produced by Hartford Marathon Foundation. They produce great races but have kind of tight time limits. I was planning to be in New England this weekend and decided to do this race as part of the Crabby Challenge which includes the Surftown Half in September and a 5K or 10K in July. For the race I stayed at the Holiday Inn Express in Mystic. It is very convenient and right at the start line but it is up a hill which is annoying post-race. I arrived in Mystic around 3pm Saturday and got packet Saturday. Packet is in Mystic Village. There is not really an expo. Just bib pick up and shirt pick up and a booth selling some merchandise. The shirt is tech. Simple design but nice color and one I will wear. It is fun to look at the shops in Mystic Village. Race morning is quite organized with the start on the street in front of my hotel. I really lucked out with weather as it rained between my races but was pretty perfect weather during both of them this weekend. I was a bit nervous for this race since there is a 3 hour time cutoff and you need to reach the 10K split at mile 5.9 in 1:20. I’ve been running right around 3 hours and prefer more wiggle room which is why I said this is not the most turtle friendly race. Luckily they had 3 hour pacers. I knew if I stuck with the pacers I should be fine. There was about 1500 runners between the 10K and half which is a nice number. No corrals but you lined up by pacers. I lined up with the 3 hour pacers. Race started at 7am which is perfect so it’s not super early but also avoids getting too hot later in the race and allows time to shower after the race. The course is on open roads but most had no cars and any that had a few cars had a running area coned off. But this is a real quiet area so the open roads did affect the race. I really love the first 5 to 6 miles of the course before the split. This part was flat with views of the Mystic river and seaport and lots of historical houses and buildings. It was also relatively flat with no major hills. The pacers were doing run-walk which I appreciated but not really any hills that I would have needed to walk in this section. If you aren’t a crazy half fanatic who does a half almost every weekend I would recommend just doing the 10K for this race as it goes through all the best parts. The next 7 or so miles are fine but kind of monotonous. They are just through wooded streets. It is pretty for about a mile then kind of boring. This part is hilly. Luckily miles 6 through 9 are net uphill and 10 through 12 net downhill so the final miles are faster. A few hills are quite steep. My GPS had 500-600 feet elevation gain. Difficulty a little above average between 3 and 4 sneakers. I rounded up because of the time limit. Course is well marked though I did see someone almost miss the turn around at this out and back portion (most of the race is a loop with a small out and back around mile 7-8). Lots of aid stations. All had water and Nuun. A few had gels. There were also mile markers with clocks. However there are not many spectators but there were a few musical acts/DJs on course. The finish line was at the aquarium which is cool. I was very happy I managed to run a bit under 3 hours especially with the hills. They did have finishers over 3 hours so I’m not sure how strict they really are with the time limit but I don’t like taking chances so I really wish it were 3:30 or 4 hours. I absolutely loved the medal. It has a sea turtle design and it is actually after a specific sea turtle in the aquarium and the ribbon has her name and the back of the medal facts about her. There were basic post race snacks like granola and bananas and a breakfast buffet with eggs, potatoes and sausage. I didn’t eat the sausage. The potatoes were delicious. Overall I thought this was a very good race. Excellent production and I loved the first half of the race. Also Mystic is a very fun place for a weekend trip. For the location alone I would definitely recommend this race to 50 staters as long as you know you can finish in the time limit. I liked this race more than Savin’ Rock which I also did in CT but Savin’ Rock had a much longer time limit so it is a better choice if you are an over 3 hours half marathoner. As I am moving to New England and Mystic is one of my favorite weekend trip destinations I will likely do this race again. I hope I get back to my normal speed so 3 hours is a bit easier for me if I do it again.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
4
SWAG
4

2 members marked this review helpful. Agree?

This is a race in Southern New Hampshire that raises money for former Bruin Ray Bourque's Family Foundation. I was in New England this weekend and looking for a shorter … MORE

This is a race in Southern New Hampshire that raises money for former Bruin Ray Bourque’s Family Foundation. I was in New England this weekend and looking for a shorter race in NH to do with my dad. He is a Bruins fan so this was perfect. It is a 7.7K because Ray Bourque’s number was 77. Ray Bourque was actually at the race which was really cool. The race takes place in Tuscan Village in Salem, NH right at the NH/MA border. It is a place I am considering moving to so this also was useful as a property tour. There was tons of parking and the race area was set up great. My mom came with us as a spectator. Packet pick-up was easy. You had choice of short sleeve or long sleeve tech shirt. Shirt is nice but white which is not my favorite color for a shirt. One minor production complaint is the race started a little late. It was supposed to start at 10 which is a bit late for a race and ended up starting more like 10:10. Otherwise it was organized. The course was okay but not necessarily my favorite. There is a 7.7K (which is a bit under 5 miles if you don’t want to do the math) and a 5K. The 5K is a loop with the 7.7K an extra out and back that splits from the loop. The first part was coned off section of a kind of busy street. Then it was mostly through parking lots in the Tuscan Village though I did get to see what restaurants, etc are located in Tuscan Village. Then its a bit through neighborhoods then the out and back mostly on the rail trail and then you rejoin the 5Kers and again it’s a lot of parking lots. I liked the rail trail part the best and wish they utilized it more. Race pretty flat just some minor hills and inclines. There were a couple aid stations with water. One annoying thing about the course was the middle of the pack 7.7Kers met up with the back of the pack 5Kers and there was a whole pack of people with strollers I needed to maneuver around). My goal was to finish in under 1 hour and I was very happy I was a few minutes under. Even thought this is a pretty much guaranteed PR with such an odd distance it was actually my fastest pace in awhile. Though the course did seem to be maybe 0.1K short. At the finish line you get the medal which is a solid hockey/Bruins themed medal. Correct size for a shorter race. The finish area was really set up with lots of chairs, there was also food and beer. The food was breakfast pizza and some pastries but all the pizza appeared to have meat (I didn’t actually check as we were getting lunch right after the race and I didn’t want to wait in line). There was also a band. My mom had a ton of fun as a spectator and said it was set up great for spectators and she had so much fun she wants to come back next year. Overall this was a fun theme and set-up but the actual race was only okay. It’s a convenient location for me and was a fun family morning so I’d do it again if I were in town.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
3
SWAG
4

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This is an all women's 5K that takes place on mother's day that is located outside Ithaca. It is a bit of a drive for a 5K but I had … MORE

This is an all women’s 5K that takes place on mother’s day that is located outside Ithaca. It is a bit of a drive for a 5K but I had lunch plans in Ithaca and the 10am start worked perfectly. It is produced by Finger Lakes Running Club. There were no major production issues but there could have been better pre-race communication. No email or anything and pretty limited info on website. It starts at a park right by the rail trail. Parking was pretty easy. Bib pick up is just the day of the race. There is no swag except a generic FLRC cowbell at the end but there is only a $20 registration fee so not a big deal. Packet pick-up was easy. I was annoyed to see a big sign that said headphones were prohibited. I don’t function well without music and I spent about 5 to 10 minutes searching for my headphones before I left since I misplaced them after yesterday’s race and it would have been nice to know before. I checked and it was not on race website. Oh well. It was a short race I would survive without music. This was manually timed and had the same start/finish. It’s a small race with about 100 participants. One of the RD gave race announcements at the start but I couldn’t really hear it. A pre-race email or loudspeaker would have been helpful. The course was very easy though just an out and back on a beautiful rail trail. It was a well-groomed trail but there were a few rocks so you have to be a bit careful. I knew I was going to have a slow race since I did a half yesterday so I took it easy and soaked in the scenery and did more of a training pace than race pace. It was unclear what side runners were supposed to be on. I assumed right and the first runners to come back were on their right but then the next pack was on the left and we moved over but that appeared to be incorrect based on arrows of turn around and again on the way back one pack of walkers was on the left and one on the right. Not a huge deal but again pre-race communication could have cleared it up. The distance was accurate and timing accurate. And as I said the course was gorgeous with forest and lake scenery and it was a nice run. There were some snacks at the end such as granola bars, oranges and mini muffins. It was a pretty and pleasant 5K course and it was nice to participate in an all women event. I do think organization and communication could have been better though no major issues.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
5
SWAG
1

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This is a half marathon or 5K race in Ellicottville, NY. Ellicottville is a small ski town about an hour from Buffalo and 2 hours from Rochester so this is … MORE

This is a half marathon or 5K race in Ellicottville, NY. Ellicottville is a small ski town about an hour from Buffalo and 2 hours from Rochester so this is a relatively local race for me. This is produced by the same company that does the EVL Halloween race in October and I’ve done a couple races with them before but this is my first time doing this race. There was good pre-race communication with an athlete guide sent before the race. I did stay in a hotel since I didn’t feel like waking up early to drive 2 hours. You can either stay or at ski resort or I stayed at the Wingate right in downtown which is 1 mile from the resort. Parking at the resort is really easy. The ski resort was a great place to start as there was indoor bathrooms and indoor seating area if there was bad weather. Luckily weather was beautiful though a bit warm for a 9am race start. There is only race day packet pick-up. There is no expo but there were a few vendors outdoors by the start. Packet included bib and a nice polyblend shirt. I generally prefer tech shirts but this race company always has the softest most comfortable T-shirts and they are my favorite PJ tops. The shirt had a fun design and is very comfortable. It’s not a very large race. There are about 200 runners. They had pacers to help line up but no specific corrals. I just lined up near the back as there did not appear to be many back of packers. The course starts with a loop through the parking lot and then it is about 4 miles on the shoulder of a busy road. I did not love how busy the road was as I don’t like cars zooming by me but it was coned off and didn’t feel unsafe. I get there are limited options for courses in such a small town. Then next 2 to 3 miles are through a quieter road with very little traffic. The course is an out and back. This is not my favorite design but it is a scenic course with mountain and farm views. Course is a bit hilly but not too bad. Better than the EVL half though this is tough because it is net downhill the first half and net uphill the second half. Also as I assumed at the start there were not many back of packers. There is a 3:30 time limit (which they let people have a little leeway on) and I had no issues in terms of aid stations being near the back but I was running by myself most of the race and I tend to be less motivated without other runners around. There were sufficient aid stations with water and gatorade and 2 had gels which you passed twice so 4 aid stations with gels. While the aid stations were well stocked I didn’t think the aid stations were efficient and I didn’t like how they used tiny dixie cups and also just had the cups on a table as opposed to being handed the cups. This race switched to this during covid and did not seem to switch back like most races have. I just lost a few seconds each aid station. I am not blaming volunteers this was clearly what they were instructed. The volunteers were great. I was making good progress and was on pace to finish a bit under 3 hours at the half way mark but around mile 8 it got hot and that’s where the hills start. I do think 9am is a little late for a May race as weather would have been perfect the whole race if it started at 7 or 8am instead of 9am. I realized at mile 8 I likely wasn’t going to make my goal so had more fun the second half stopping for pics (I saw some cute chickens) and interacting more with the volunteers. I ended up finishing over 3 hours but under my secondary goal of 3:10. The listed time appears to be gun time as my Garmin had me closer to 3:08 finishing. Not sure if that will be fixed. Oh well, it was not a PR race and I’m not going to lose sleeping over my listed time being 1 minute slower. I loved that after the finish arch they had a bubble machine so there were bubbles all over the ground and made it really fun. Also the medal is really cute and huge. There was pretty good post-race food options. A huge muffin, bananas, granola bars, pretzels, etc. Also beer for those who drink it. Overall I thought this was a good race. I did not love the set up of an out and back on open roads but the scenery and swag was very nice. I’d recommend this to locals but wouldn’t call it a “must run.” Not my first choice for NY for 50 staters although if it works well with your schedule it’s not a bad choice.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
4

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This is a trail race at Mendon Pond Park right outside Rochester. There is a short option which is 4 to 6 miles or a long option which is 13 … MORE

This is a trail race at Mendon Pond Park right outside Rochester. There is a short option which is 4 to 6 miles or a long option which is 13 to 15 miles. I opted for the short option since I’m on call this weekend. I do think pre-race communication could have been better. There were not many emails except the runsignup share it with your friends emails. For instance they never sent a packet pick-up email. The website was updated so I was able to find the information but I like an email. I got my packet at the Medved running store Saturday as it was on the way home from Naples. Packet included bib and tech shirt. it is a simple but nice design and nice quality shirt that I will wear. The race has 3 starts a 7:30 early start for slower folks doing the long course, an 8:30 start for most people doing the long course and a 9:30 start for the short course. The parking lot where the race starts is very small so cars lined the main street around Mendon to park. If you are doing the short course you will park quite a bit away from the start. I parked a little over 1/4 mile from the start so try to pick up your packet early to not have to go back and forth unless you want to run in the race shirt. There were flags where to start. They gave pre-race announcements. I wouldn’t call the start disorganized but I wish there was a loudspeaker as the RD just spoke the directions and it was sometimes hard to hear over chatter and the directions were really important given there are multiple loops and distances. It also may have been nice if the instructions were sent via email before the race. For the short course we followed blue flags. The course was marked pretty well there was a blue flag everywhere there needed to be and I never got lost though there were a few sections I went awhile without seeing one and it just reassures me to see them more frequently. The course is scenic as the leaves are very green and Mendon is really pretty. However it was really, really, really tough. I think they made the course as tough as possible. There was a ton of mud and a ton of hills. It was honestly not that much fun and I got sick of it after about 3 miles but I sucked it up and finished the course. My Garmin shutdown for some reason at mile 4.65 and I had to restart it and set it again so I didn’t record the whole distance but it was closer to 6 miles than 5 miles and there appeared to be 600-700 feet of elevation gain. My finishing time was super slow. I’m not sure how accurate the timing is. It is manually timed. I had about an hour and half recorded on my Garmin though did miss a tiny bit but I don’t think it was 6 minutes maybe it was. Doesn’t really matter as my time was super slow with or without the 6 minutes. I was happy for it to end. There is food at the end. I heard it was chicken BBQ and as a vegetarian was not too excited it but there was a whole feast with lots of veggie options. There was iced tea and lemonade, the BBQ chicken, marinara pasta, mac n cheese, potatoes, coleslaw, salad and dinner rolls. So even without meat I had a delicious and filling meal. There as also beer which I didn’t drink. This was a very tough course. It was a little too hilly and muddy for me but it was worth it for the food at the end. I was initially going to give this race 3 sneakers but the food made me increase to 4 sneakers. I would recommend this race to locals as long as you are prepared for the difficulty.

DIFFICULTY
5
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3

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This is a fairly small race with about 100 participants in a town called Naples in the Fingerlakes which is a little under an hour drive from Rochester. I am … MORE

This is a fairly small race with about 100 participants in a town called Naples in the Fingerlakes which is a little under an hour drive from Rochester. I am stuck in town this weekend and initially there were no races today but this race moved from May 13 to May 6 after realizing there were no races May 6 and a ton of races May 13. Since this raises money for the Youth Corp many of the participants were kids and families. There is a 5K and a 10K. I chose the 5K because the 10K goes over a hill called Mt Misery. I’m glad I picked the 5K as there were only about 10 participants doing the 10K while the 5K had close to 100 participants. There was adequate pre-race communication with a race email sent about 1 week in advance. There was an option for early packet pick-up but as it’s about a 55 minute drive I just got my packet the day of. Packet included bib and a polyblend shirt. The design is a little plain but it’s a nice quality shirt and a nice reddish color. Much better than the typical white cotton T-shirt you get at most of these smaller events. It started at a school with plenty of parking. The start and finish were the same and it was chip timed. You just started at the timing mat. There was no fancy start/finish arch or anything which is fine for a race like this. The course went through the town along main street then past a vineyard then through some quiet neighborhoods back to main street and the school. It was a pretty area and a pleasant place to run with lots of green trees and perfect running weather. The main street was coned off. The rest of the streets were opened by I think 2 to 3 cars totaled passed us so not a big deal. It was mostly a loop with a small out and back around mile 2. There were clear signs where to go and volunteers directing traffic. The only place I thought could have been better marked was the start of the out and back but there was a volunteer to direct everyone. Even without Mt. Misery the 5K course was quite hilly. This was a tough 5K. My Garmin said 135 feet elevation gain. I thought my finishing time was good with this hills. There aren’t medals which is fine for this type of race. There was water, gatorade, donuts and bananas at the finish. Overall this was a very good race for a low budget small race and I would recommend it to locals and am glad I took the trip down today.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3

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This is a race in Oklahoma City that serves as a memorial to those affected by the bombing in 1995. It is held in late April and starts at the … MORE

This is a race in Oklahoma City that serves as a memorial to those affected by the bombing in 1995. It is held in late April and starts at the Oklahoma City Memorial. I chose this race because I have heard great things and it’s in a bigger city so easier to fly to. I only had the weekend so this was a very quick trip to OK so I didn’t have any time to spend in the city. I have been to Oklahoma City a couple of times in the past and it is a nice city so I wish I had more vacation days and could have spent more time there. For the race there is great pre-race communication with a pre-race guide and a nice app for the phone with information. I flew in Saturday morning. I was supposed to arrive at 1pm but my flight was delayed so I wasn’t getting in until 4 to 5pm. Packet pick-up is required before the race and the expo closes at 6pm. Since I would be cutting it close with the delayed flight I had a fellow runner from one of my running clubs pick up my packet for me (thank you if you are reading this review) so I didn’t get to go to the expo. Packet include bib, pancake mix, race guide and a nice short-sleeved tech shirt. Simple design but I liked the color and will use it. I stayed at the host hotel the Omni. I think it was a bit pricey but typical price for a host hotel in a downtown area and not too expensive for one night. The Omni is right at the finish and about 3/4 mile from the start which is perfect to get a warm-up to start and not have to walk far at the end. The race starts at 6:30am. It’s kind of early but there was time to shower before my flight so I liked the early start. There were corrals based off predicted times. Pretty much my only production complaint is there were not enough porta potties and I did not have time to use it before the race. The corrals went off efficiently I was in the last one and started around 6:45. There is the anthem and moment of silent before the race. This is a very large race with thousands of runners and the atmosphere was great! I think this race may have had the most spectators for any race I have done. Race weather was absolutely perfect this weekend as well. The race is all on closed streets or streets with multiple lanes blocked off. The half and full start together and diverge around mile 8. The first couple miles are in downtown Oklahoma City passed the memorial and basketball stadium. I was initially sticking between the 2:55 half marathon and 6:00 full marathon pace group but then around mile 3 you go into some neighborhoods and some of the residents had their pet chickens out and you could take chicken selfies and I couldn’t resist and decided to give up on my 3 hour finishing time goal and just have fun. The next few miles are mostly though neighborhoods. All of which had tons of spectators and many had themes. There was one street that was all orange with orange juice and mimosa and gorilla hill where people where dressed as gorillas and they handed out bananas. This part of the course is small hills. Nothing too bad. I walked them since I was more in party mode than speed mode. Then there is the split. The worst part of the course was a bit after the split and is a long incline. It is not steep but it’s a mile or 2 and a slog. Luckily there are still a lot of spectators and the final miles are downhill. Still some spectators but it did thin out a bit at the end until the finish line. Everything on the course was well marked. There were tons of aid stations. I carried water but didn’t really need it. All had water. Most had electrolyte drink. Many had snacks like pretzels and fruit and at least one had gels. This was a very back of the pack friendly race and everything was well stocked when I passed by. There were also a ton of back of packers. Almost too many. One thing I did not enjoy about the race which is somewhat outside the race company’s control is there was not great running etiquette on course. I was run-walking and with run-walkers but everyone kept walking in the middle of the course in lines of 3 to 4 people and not going to the right when slowing down. It was a bit frustrating as I had to weave around people and occasionally there was a whole blockade of walkers. I think it is great for people to be out there walking the course just please go to the right so faster people can pass you. Whenever I take a walking interval I always move over so people can pass me. This was most frustrating in the beginning when I was going for under 3 hours and less frustrating when I decided to just have fun. I was also worried when the marathoners converged it would make things worse but luckily they had half marathoners on the left and full on the right so the 3 hour marathoners were not mixing with us. The finish chute was very well done and emotional with pictures of all the victims of the bombing. A somber way to finish but it made you appreciate being able to run and get out there. You got your medal. It is okay. Kind of plain but a respectful medal for the event. There were typical finish line snacks like water, gatorade, chips and nutrigrain bars. They also had burgers but they were all beef and no veggie burgers. There was a nice finish area. I didn’t have a lot of time to hang out as I had to catch a 1:50pm flight and wanted to shower but it seemed like a fun area. Overall this was a fantastic race. Great production with an interesting urban course and possible the most fun race environment I have experience. Of the ~80 half marathons I have done, this is top 10 for sure and would probably be top 5 if they had veggie burgers. I would definitely recommend this race. I assumed it would be a one and done since Oklahoma is not very close to me but I would definitely consider coming back and 100% recommend it to 50 staters.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3

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I have run this race last year so that review has more details. This is the Spring Half Marathon produced by Yellow Jacket Racing. It is my favorite of the … MORE

I have run this race last year so that review has more details. This is the Spring Half Marathon produced by Yellow Jacket Racing. It is my favorite of the half marathons they produce and has the best tour of Rochester (though the Fall Rochester Half is also very scenic and pretty). The race is Sunday and they had a shake-out run Saturday at 9am before the expo which I went to. It was a nice way to get a warm-up run and hang out with some runners and had free bagels and coffee so try to do it. Expo is small but fine for local race. Not the biggest fan of the shirt this year. It is neon yellow but it is a good color for evening runs so I will wear next winter when I need to run in the dark. There also wasn’t all the other swag there was last year. Race day is Sunday and everything went seamlessly. There are $5 lots right by the arena it starts at or if you are willing to look around and walk a little more you can find free street parking. Race was essentially the same as last year but there was a slight detour due to construction. The new courses were certified. The race really goes through all the best sights of Rochester including downtown, past historic mansions and I think the best part is through Mount Hope Cemetery. The first 6 miles are pretty flat with just minor hills then there is a huge hill at mile 6. Then it’s pretty hilly for a few miles through the cemetery with the last couple miles being flat on the canal path. Course well-marked with closed or partially closed lanes and accurate mile markers. Only production complaint is again there were only 5 aid stations and the last 2 are kind of far apart and the aid stations only had water. It was a beautiful day but got a little hot by the end and I could have used an extra aid station near the end. Otherwise production was perfect. At the finish you get your medal. It is an okay medal. My finishing time was what I expected for course difficulty. There is post race festivities inside the arena with a band, massages and snacks. Overall this is a great tour of Rochester and very well produced. The hills in the middle make it a bit difficult but worth it for the cool sights. I was a little disappointed in the swag this year but it wasn’t bad enough to not make me recommend this race. As I’m moving out of Rochester, this may be my last year doing it but I would definitely consider coming back to visit for this race. If you like urban races with lots of historical sights and would prefer a race in a cheaper and smaller city than NYC, this is a good half for 50 staters.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
5
SWAG
3

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Even though this is a low budget race, it is still one of my favorites in NH and definitely the best race you can find for only $26.21 which is … MORE

Even though this is a low budget race, it is still one of my favorites in NH and definitely the best race you can find for only $26.21 which is the price if you register early. I did the race last year so that review has more details. This race has no frills but it’s production is as good as much more expensive races. They again did the time trial start where you are assigned a time based on predicted pace and it works great so runners are spread out. The course is an out and back on a rail trail. Not the most exciting but it is relatively flat and it’s actually a fairly scenic trail. I prefer this scenery to Elm street. Only production complaint is there are only 3 aid stations which you pass twice but two are placed a little over 3 miles apart. This is in the race instruction and I get it’s a cheap race so I won’t take away a sneaker but I’d recommend carrying water for this race. There is no medal but you get a funny ribbon. My time was slow but as expected with this being my second half this weekend. I would definitely recommend this race for locals and for 50 staters not concerned about bling. I plan to sign up for next year as soon as registration opens as long as I am free the weekend of the race.

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
3
SWAG
2

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This is a downhill point to point half marathon in Albany, NY. I chose to do this race because Albany is halfway between Rochester and NH and had a race … MORE

This is a downhill point to point half marathon in Albany, NY. I chose to do this race because Albany is halfway between Rochester and NH and had a race in NH on Sunday so it worked out perfectly. I actually had plans in Syracuse Friday night so I stayed in Utica before the race which is in-between Syracuse and Albany so can’t comment on lodging in Albany but I’m sure there are convenient hotels in downtown Albany. The race had excellent production with a participant guide that had all the details. Luckily there is race day packet pick as I would not be able to get my packet early. For the race it is recommended you park in downtown Albany and take a shuttle to the start which is in a park in a small town outside Albany. They have some recommend parking garages and it was easy. The shuttle went very smooth and all the issues from the earlier reviews about the race seemed to be fixed so this race company clearly listens to feedback and works on improvement. Everyone appeared to be at the start with plenty of time to spare. The start was also well organized. I liked that they had water jugs set up and there was a good amount of porta potties. The race day packet pick-up was at the start and you got the bib before the race and shirt after. The start had signs to line up by pace and started on time. There are a few thousand runners and people seemed to line up well. The first two miles are on road which is good since it allows everyone to space out. There is a small uphill near the start (the only hill for the course) and then a steeper downhill. After mile 2 you spend most of the rest of the race on a rail trail with a very gradual downhill. It is the perfect course for being fast but the rail trail portion is not too steep so it is not a quad killer which was good since I had another half tomorrow. You are on the trail for about 8 or 9 miles then a couple miles more through the city which were flat. Course was very well marked. The trail was wide enough for runners to pass and all paved and well groomed. Since it was point to point it never got too crowded. There were aid stations about every 2 miles. The first 2 were just water. The rest had water and Nuun and one in the middle had gu. I believe they all had porta potties. It was kind of a hot day and close to 80 by the end of the race. For normal April weather there was the perfect amount of aid stations. In the heat, I’d prefer a few more but the weather was unusual. There were lots of spectators at intersections on the trail though obviously not many on the trail. There were police at all road crossings. There were also lots of back of packers so I was running with people the whole race. The scenery was okay. It was pleasant but a bit monotonous. The end in the city was mostly under roads and bridges and not that scenic. The finish was in a park across the bridge from the parking lot and downtown Albany. Given the elevation profile I was hoping to have my fastest race of the year and thought this might be the race to beat my next goal of 2:50 but when I saw the weather report of temps in the high 70s I knew that was too ambitious as I haven’t done any heat training and was happy that with the heat I was still under 3 hours. At the finish you get your medal. The medal is nice but not outstanding. This race is part of a challenge with a 10 miler in May and the medals connect. I think the medal would be really cool if you do the challenge but it’s fine on it’s own (the 10 miler is the same day as the Buffalo half so I can’t do the challenge as I want to do Buffalo one more time before I leave western NY). You also pick up your shirt if you do race day packet pick-up and bought a shirt (there is tiered registration with option for shirt or no shirt which I think is great). I got a shirt. It is a fine cotton shirt. I’d prefer a tech shirt. One minor production critique is the line for the shirt took forever because they were also selling merch at the booth. I wish they had separate pre-bought line and purchasing line to make it quicker. They also had box lunches and I was very excited for a vegan option. It included a hummus sandwich, chips and a delicious vegan dessert. If you want a huge vegan meal though the finish line is also a couple blocks from the delicious vegan burger place Wizard Burger. Overall this was a very good race. It is inbetween 4 and 5 sneakers. Production and elevation profile are definitely 5 sneakers although scenery and swag were just average. Vegan options at the end though round up the score to 5. As this race is only a 3 hour drive from me I would definitely consider it again. I’d recommend it for 50 staters if you prefer a mid-size, quieter, convenient NY race.

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
3
SWAG
3

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I was already planning to go visit Cleveland this weekend and this was the only half marathon race option. It is basically a glorified training run for the Cleveland marathon. … MORE

I was already planning to go visit Cleveland this weekend and this was the only half marathon race option. It is basically a glorified training run for the Cleveland marathon. That sounds kind of negative but it’s exactly what it is and the race doesn’t claim to be anything else. It is a very cheap race with $25 registration and extra perks if you raise more money. It is designed as cheap option for runners looking for a supported course for their 20 mile run for the Cleveland marathon and also has 5K, 10K, half and full marathon option. The race is chipped timed and has a well marked course but it is all on trails and sidewalks and open to traffic and you have to obey traffic laws. The races start at a bar and that’s where packet pick-up is. The swag item is a pint glass. The pint glass is absolutely adorable and I do love it. It has these two ducks and one says “I ran today!” and the other says “cool.” The course is throughout Cleveland. There were plenty of arrows and markings and they also gave a piece of paper with directions as well. It had the same start and finish lines. They said they tried to make a course with minimal road crossings but that was a lie. The first half of the course was very reasonable for an open course in quiet neighborhoods and about 1.5 miles on the towpath then another mile on another paved trail and then again through a quiet neighborhood. There were aid stations every 3 miles or so. I did carry water since they weren’t as frequent as I’d like but frequent enough for the cost. What was at the aid stations was varied some just water, some gatorade, some snacks and gels. One issue is aid stations didn’t have bathrooms and I had to go really bad in the middle of the race and ended up wasting 3 minutes going at a convenience store on the route. These miles though really had minimal road crossings and I had a decent about 14 minute/mile pace. The next half was really cool for scenery but so annoying for a closed course as we went through downtown Cleveland. We passed the football stadium, the rock n roll hall of fame, the baseball stadium and run along busy streets. While it was a cool tour of the city, it was the stupidest course for an open course. I lost 2 to 3 minutes each mile waiting for crosswalks. After living in California for 6 years I am trained to not jay walk but you literally lost about 20 minutes unless you jay walked. There was also some construction is some areas making it hard to maneuver. I can’t figure out why they didn’t just do an out and back on the towpath. It would be kind of boring but so much better for running an open course. If I were to designed a similar race in Rochester I would put it just about all on the canal path. The constant stopping downtown also made it hard to get in a groove. My finishing time was super slow but if you account for the 20 minutes I spend stopping for traffic it wasn’t as bad as it looks. At the finish there was some food but they ran out of granola bars. There was some fruit and m&ms. There were a ton of granola bars on course. They should have had more granola bars at the finish and less on course. There is no medal but that is okay for a cheap race and they never said there was one. Overall I did think this was a cool tour of Cleveland and I applaud the RDs for making an affordable race but I did not enjoy stopping for traffic so much and as a result would not strongly recommend this race. I’d really only recommend this race for locals who are either looking for a training run for the Cleveland marathons or for local half fanatics and marathon maniacs looking to increase their numbers in a cheap way. It was either this race or no half marathon since it was the only one in Cleveland so I’m happy I did it but would only do it again if I happened to already have plans to be in Cleveland and I would recommend they change the course so less time is downtown and more is the towpath

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
4
SWAG
2

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This race goes to a great cause raising money for the transplant team at my hospital so I would definitely recommend it to locals just for that reason. However it … MORE

This race goes to a great cause raising money for the transplant team at my hospital so I would definitely recommend it to locals just for that reason. However it was a pretty medium race. No major issues but also nothing special. Hence the three sneakers down the board. The race did make parking very clear which was easy race morning. Packet included bib and a long sleeved tech shirt. The shirt is very nice but the only swag. The weather was cold and sunny. I was having a bad morning for reasons not related to running but I was not in the mood and thought about skipping the race but since it’s located under 10 minutes from where I live I decided to come. The race is all around the canal path where I usually run and where most races in Rochester take place. The start and finish were separate and the finish line had a timing mat and arch. The start was just kind of there with some cones and had no timing mat. The course is fine. The canal path is pleasant enough. The canal path is flat but I did think this was probably 3 of the hardest miles as there were multiple bridges. Nothing crazy but did have about 80 feet elevation gain. I thought the course could have been a little better marked. I know the canal path well and studied the course map and didn’t get lost. There were some flags and signs but a few locations where not well marked. I did hear one runner say they missed a turn and ran extra miles. There was an aid station around mile 2 with water. No medal which is fine for a charity 5K. Had water bottles, granola bars and apples at the end. There was also a raffle and a few booths to look at. I had a very slow time because I was not in a running mood but at least I got out there and did it. Overall I thought this was a fine race. Nothing special but goes to a good cause and would recommend to locals.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
3
SWAG
3

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This is a race produced by Willow Running that takes place right before the International Taste Festival in Syracuse at the NY state fairgrounds. There is the option for 5K … MORE

This is a race produced by Willow Running that takes place right before the International Taste Festival in Syracuse at the NY state fairgrounds. There is the option for 5K or 10K. I was on call and just did the 5K. The 10K starts at 10am and the 5K at 10:15 so the late start allows time to drive to Syracuse after rounding but luckily I didn’t have to go in the hospital today so I could have an easy morning. Really my only production complaint which may be out of the race company’s control is parking was confusing. There were multiple events going on and not many signs specific to the events. I kind of expected this as every time I’ve come to the fairgrounds parking is kind of annoying so I left early so I’d have time to figure it out and I eventually found my way following cars with running bumper stickers. The race has race day pick-up though there is the option for picking it up a few days before. I got it the day of. It was inside in the same building the taste fest is. Packet included bib and a really colorful (almost too colorful), good quality long sleeved tech shirt The inside location had real bathrooms and would be good if there was bad weather. Luckily weather was on our side. It was stormy in central NY today but the sun came out just for the race. The temp was perfect. Only issues was some winds. The race had the 10K first at 10 and 5K 15 minutes later. There were 100-200 5K participants. Everyone start at one and there was a start/finish arch with a timing mat. The course started right outside the taste fest building. The scenery on the course was pretty awful but it was convenient and an easy course to follow. The first about 1/2 mile is on a bridge that goes over the highway and you basically look at cars. Then there is a 2 mile circle. The first mile is next to the lake which is somewhat scenic and I was going to raise the scenery a sneaker but the next mile is literally just running along a road next to a parking lot. The 10K did a 3.1 mile out and back that diverged around the halfway point. Then back across the bridge with the cars and finish at taste fest. Difficulty was medium for a 5K. About 80 feet of elevation gain. Most in the first half mile which means the last half mile is downhill. While the scenery is terrible, it’s not really the point of the race and I understand there really aren’t many course options next to the taste fest and the course was easy to follow, had wide areas to run in which was great with the 2 distances as there was some intermixing of paces and also didn’t involve many road closures. There was also an aid station with water in the middle. At the finish you get your medal. The medal is very nice for a 5K/10K though not distance specific. My finish time wasn’t great but I had to check my pager a few times and at least finished under 40 mins. There is no post-race food at the finish but you get free entry to the taste fest. Though you do have to pay for the food. The taste fest had many vendors including small $2 samplers. Lots of vegetarian and a good amount of vegan options and was a fun event. Overall I’d recommend this race if you are interested in also going to the taste fest. It is not the greatest course but production is good and swag is great.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
1
SWAG
5

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This is a 2 mile race that is the day after the Shamrock Half Marathon. If you do both races you get a golden shamrock which attaches to the half … MORE

This is a 2 mile race that is the day after the Shamrock Half Marathon. If you do both races you get a golden shamrock which attaches to the half medal. The medal is an above average medal without the golden shamrock but it is an excellent medal with it so I’d recommend doing this 2 miler if you can add it on. There is no swag for just doing the 2 miler however. There is also race day packet pick-up. The start and finish is the same as the half. I just walked this race with my parents. It is an out and back on Elm Street so I was so excited to see the same sights again. I will give this race credit though as it goes through the more exciting downtown part. Also this race avoids the hill. It is a slight incline out and a slight decline back so it is a fast race. There are a ton of participants including tons of walkers and kids participating which was fun for my mom who only likes to walk races with lots of walkers. With the out and back you get to see everyone and cheer them on. We walked it very fast and had a good walking time. There were similar post race food to yesterday though I don’t think there was soup. I would definitely try to add this on if you are doing the half and would recommend it to locals looking for shorter races. My mom really wants to do this again next year so as I said in my half review I am planning to do it next year as long as it is not the weekend I plan to be in New Mexico

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
3
SWAG
2

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This is a half marathon produced by Millennium Running in Manchester, NH. I am originally from NH and frequently visit and have now run several races in NH. Millennium Running … MORE

This is a half marathon produced by Millennium Running in Manchester, NH. I am originally from NH and frequently visit and have now run several races in NH. Millennium Running has the best production in NH and this race is no exception. However this is probably the weakest course in terms of scenery that I have run in NH. This is an extremely convenient race which is one reason along with production that I would recommend it despite the scenery. I drove and stayed at my parents’ house but if you are coming from out of town the race is located in downtown Manchester with plenty of hotels right by the start line and a quick cab ride from the Manchester airport so no rental car needed. The race also has race day packet pick-up though there is also the option of picking it up Friday at the Millennium Running Store. I arrived Friday evening and opted for race day packet pick up. The race website has all the necessary info and packet pick-up was very easy. I parked in a garage a couple blocks from the start but you can also find free street parking. Packet included bib which was cute in that they put O’ before your last name so everyone had an Irish-sounding name as part of the St Patrick’s day theme. You also got a long sleeved green polyblend shirt. It’s fine but I generally prefer tech shirts. Even though the race takes place over a week after St Patrick’s day it is very festive with most participants in green and Irish music at the start. It is a smaller race with a few hundred participants so it definitely felt a bit lonely compared to the huge races I did last weekend. There were a few other half marathons in New England this weekend which likely diluted the amount of runners. For the start they had you line up by pace. As it was a smaller race there was no need for waves. The start had an announcer and as I said before was very festive. I reviewed the course online and it looked kind of confusing with multiple runs up and down Elm street and I worried it would be confusing to follow or annoying with people of mixed paces but it was so well organized and designed that neither of these were a problem. Elm street is one of the main streets in Manchester and it was completely closed off for the approximately 2 mile stretch and had 3 lanes. You spend a lot of time on Elm Street. I feel like I now know every detail of that stretch. How it works is the first time up Elm street you are on the left lane. The first section also has a brief side trek over a bridge and then back to Elm street. You then run around a block and run down in the middle lane. Unfortunately with this system you end up passing the start/finish many time. You then do a small loop downtown and run up the right lane and then go one block and run down a parallel street. There is then another section downtown, passed the start/finish line again and you then go up the left lane again and finish down the middle lane. It was extremely easy to follow and I was never with people running different paces. I don’t think there was any mixing of paces with how well it was set up. The fact that we pretty much just ran up and down Elm street for most of the race made it quite boring for scenery. It’s not really unpleasant scenery but there is so much beauty and nature in NH and it is not on Elm Street. There is also a hill on Elm Street you go up 3 times which gets annoying. It’s not that terrible a hill. I did walk the hill as my lungs still aren’t 100% from my illness but it’s not too long or steep of a hill. The overall elevation gain was around 400 ft which is flat for Manchester and this is a much easier course than Manchester City. Some positives about the course set up is the streets are all closed off so you don’t need to worry about traffic and there is a water station you pass 5 times (there were also 2 or 3 other water stations on the non Elm Street sections so there were lots of aid stations) and as you know the course it is easy to strategize and also the last 2 miles are downhill and fast. I was still not feeling 100% but I was able to strategize the course and I was very happy to finish under 3 hours and over 20 minutes faster than last week. At the finish line you get your medal. The medal is very nice and big. If you do the 2 mile shuffle on Sunday you get a golden shamrock which is a magnet that connects to the medal. The medal without the golden shamrock is good. The medal with the golden shamrock is great. There is also a post-race party with typical post race snacks such as granola bar and banana and soup that was vegetarian (and I believe vegan though don’t quote me on that) along with beer if you drink alcohol. Also if you are a hockey fan, the NCAA hockey tournament frequently comes to the arena in Manchester right by the start line the same weekend as the race so if you are a 50 stater and a hockey fan try to plan them together. The hockey game was another reason I was in NH this weekend. Overall this is a very well produced race with a fun theme though not the best course. I would definitely recommend it to locals. For 50 staters there are definitely better courses to highlight the beauty of NH but if you want the most convenient location then I’d recommend this race. I am moving back to New England this summer and plan to do this race again next year as long as it is not the same weekend as Bataan in New Mexico.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
2
SWAG
4

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I had done this race in 2021 but it was modified and an open course due to covid. I was impressed with what the race company J&A racing was able … MORE

I had done this race in 2021 but it was modified and an open course due to covid. I was impressed with what the race company J&A racing was able to do during covid so I wanted to come back during a normal year for the full experience. I drove down to Virginia Beach after RnR DC on Saturday. They do have the option to have your packet mailed early or race day packet pick-up but it is a hefty fee and I think was $40. I did opt to have my packet mailed as I wanted no stress getting to VB. Packet included bib and a nice long-sleeved, very green tech shirt. Packet pick-up goes until 5pm on Saturday. I arrived in VB right about 5pm but I stayed and enjoyed the after party in DC and stopped for gas and Dunkins on the drive down so you definitely could make it in time for packet pick-up if doing both if you are either a fast runner or leave right after you cross the finish line if you don’t want to pay to have bib mailed or picked up race day. I again stayed in the Ramada. It is right by the finish. One thing I did not account for is Atlantic Ave is closed until 3:30pm on race day so if you wanted to leave before 3:30pm you could not park in the Ramada’s parking structure. Luckily I found street parking 2 blocks away on Arctic Ave but if I were to do the race again and drive home right after I would stay at a hotel a few blocks inland not right at the beach as I’d prefer not to do street parking. If you are staying Sunday night or leaving after 3:30pm the Ramada is very convenient. The race starts about 3/4 mile from the finish. This race was basically the opposite of RnR DC in that everything at the start was super organized except there was not nearly enough porta potties. It was kind of a cold morning. Although there was a snow storm in Rochester last week so I thought the weather was pleasant but I didn’t want to hang at the start line too long so did not have time to wait in the porta potty lines. I was feeling pretty awful from being sick 1.5 weeks ago and my glutes were on fire from the DC race so I knew I wasn’t having a fast time and was not worried about losing a few minutes using the porta potty during the race. However the corral system was extremely organized, efficient and spaced everyone out perfectly. The race was also great. It is a party atmosphere type of race with a ton of participants and lots of slower runners as well. I was a little disappointed in course scenery as I was hoping for more beach scenes and I found the modified course from 2021 to be a bit more scenic with the boardwalk. However the course is very flat. The first part is a few miles through a nice neighborhood with a ton of spectators which is fun. The next few miles are probably the worst of the course. They are a very slight incline through some woods. Not many spectators and scenery a bit repetitive here. However it is the perfect place for an incline. After you have gotten into your groove but before you are too tired too notice and the second half is slightly downhill so it would be a fast course if you didn’t feel like crap. Around mile 6 you enter Fort Story a military base. This is pretty cool since normally it is off limit for the public but there are less spectators. The first part of this section is a bit boring but the second part has a cool lighthouse and some beach views. You then go back through the neighborhood and then turn onto the beach boardwalk for maybe half a mile and finish at the King Neptune statue. Course is well supported with plenty of aid stations. While there were lots of porta potties on the course the lines were very long since so many runners couldn’t go before the race. Otherwise production was pretty much perfect. At the finish line you get your medal which is nice and has a design of the King Neptune statue and then volunteers keep handing you stuff. It seemed like the swag and goodies never ended. You got a blanket, hat, water bottles, recovery drink, tons of snack items and luckily a drawstring bag. On the beach there is also a tent with a post race party with beef stew and beer or if you are meat and alcohol free like me veggie stew and pepsi. Overall this was a great race. I do wish the scenery was a little more beachy but it’s a flat course with great production and festive atmosphere. I enjoyed it so much I decide to sign up for another half with J&A racing this Fall. This is definitely a very good choice for Virginia and worked really well as a double with RnR DC.

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
3
SWAG
5

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