By Daniel Lennon, Michelle Davis, and Chris Bishop

Most running articles talk about races after they are finished rather than before they are run. This way some great races are missed that when runners hear about them think, “If only I had known.” So here is a spectacular one you should not miss: Run4theRiver Half Marathon put on by Nark Running & Strength on September 3.

Dan Lennon said this about last year’s premier Run4theRiver Half Marathon:

The Run4theRiver Race is a wonderful event. The course is runner friendly and SUPER fast. It starts at the Mabee Farm, providing a great spot for warming up and relaxing pre-race. The course is point-to-point with a slight downhill grade making for a fast and comfortable run, even on tired legs. The bike path parking lots were filled with spectators which were great for keeping you inspired along the race. The course travels along the fast bike path with little winding, close to no wind interference, and finished at the Schenectady County Community College last year. By the finish line, there was a post-race party with free beer, free food, and live music which was great for celebrating. After racing R4TR last year, I knew I had to add this event to my annual race schedule because the course was flat, the weather was great, and the timing is perfect. Lots of

marathon runners target Fall races and R4TR makes for the perfect tune-up for a fast time. I’m not tuning up for a Fall marathon this year, but I am looking to race a string of races this fall, and I have a feeling that Run4theRiver will be the perfect start to a fast season!

Michelle Davis added:

The inaugural Run4 the River Half Marathon in 2021 was a very fun race. The start was at Mabee Farms, which is beautiful. It was a cool morning and a little warm at the end. But it was a good course along the bike path. The end was fun as we ran out of the bike path and through the SCCC parking area accompanied by lots of energy at the finish line. There was a party, but it will be so much better this year. At the end of the race last year there was a food truck, free beer, and music, but this year it will be awesome since the race ends at Frog Alley where the party begins. Monkberry Live is providing music.

So, start your Labor Day weekend off with a bang by running this race and celebrating your accomplishment immediately after with an outdoor party at Frog Alley with refreshments, free beer, and music.