Running

Hudson-Mohawk River Marathon
& U.S. Marine Corps Half-Marathon

by Tom Bulger

On October 10, the 22nd annual Hudson-Mohawk River Marathon will be held, in conjunction with the 2nd annual U.S. Marine Corps Half-Marathon. The marathon begins in Schenectady’s Central Park, and the half-marathon begins at the Colonie Town Park. Both races proceed primarily along the Mohawk-Hudson bike path, finishing at the Albany Riverfront Park.

The race is very runner-friendly — the course is flat, running west to east, and if there is a wind it is usually a tailwind — and well organized. Runners come from all over the United States to run the race, many hoping to qualify for the Boston Marathon with a fast time. Every year a large contingent of runners come from Canada to run these races.

This year, the finish line of the race has been moved up a tenth of a mile on the at Albany’s Riverfront Park. This is because the race coincides with the city of Albany’s Columbus Day Parade. Race director Elaine Humphrey is coordinating the end of the race with the end of the parade. The city of Albany has a number of booths and festivities planned for the end of the parade, so runners will be able to enjoy these events after they finish their races.

Other features of the marathon include a pasta dinner the night before the race, available to runners who wish to sign up for the event. All participants will receive handmade finishers medals and awards.

Unique to both races is the presence and support of the local Marine Corps unit. During the past two years the Marines have sponsored the half-marathon, and have used the event to kick off their Toys for Tots holiday season giving program. The Marines request that runners bring toys and/or donations to help the needy children in the region. They are particularly looking for toys suitable for very young children, up to age twelve. The Marines will have soldiers at collection bins at the pre-race packet pickup at Albany’s Crowne Plaza Hotel on Saturday, October 9 from 12 to 6 pm. The Marines will also assist in the set up, supervision, and break down of the course and race logistics.

The race directors are anticipating about 500 entrants in the marathon, and about 300 in the half-marathon. Walkers are also welcome to enter both races, though casual walkers are requested to start an hour before the scheduled start time so they can finish in proximity to the runners. Last year, the marathon had 450 finishers. The largest marathon field was in 1995, when 572 runners completed the course.

Past events have seen some excellent running performances. Dale Keenan of Selkirk who has won the marathon a record six times (1983-84, 1986-88, 1995), still holds the fastest time with a sparkling 2:20:59 in 1984. Two women have won the race twice, Daniele Cherniak of Cohoes (1983, 2001) and Gayle Porcelli (1996-97). Averill Park’s Jen Fazioli, who ran a blistering 2:47:22 in 2002, turned in the fastest time ever by a woman. Many other runners have run personal bests on this flat and fast course.

Runners and walkers wishing to do the marathon or half-marathon can sign up until the day of the event. Local residents who are not inclined to compete are encouraged to participate in the festivities or cheer on family, friends and all the participants.

Tom Bulger resides in Menands and is a professor of English at Siena College. A former president of the Hudson-Mohawk Road Runners Club, he is the race director for the U.S. Marine Corps Half-Marathon.

©2000-2004 Adirondack Sports & Fitness. All rights reserved.