This was my first official half marathon, after the RunDisney Wine & Dine Half was shortened due to weather issues.
The race expo was at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center. In order to avoid traffic/long lines, my friend and I met there as soon as it opened. We got our bibs & shirts quickly, but many of the vendors weren't open yet. We took a quick loop around but didn't see anything we needed to have. Great venue for the expo though, with quite a few vendors!
On race day I drove myself and met my friend Lisa in the parking area. I'm always super nervous about not finding the right parking area, or not getting a good parking spot for races and most of the time end up being one of the first people there, which was exactly the case on this day! So no issues with parking for me. We got ready in the parking lot - hair, KT Tape, lacing up the shoes, etc. and then made our way to the starting line.
Lisa and I had run the beginning of the course a few weeks before so we knew what to expect. BIG hill in the very beginning, run through Marist campus, another more gradual hill through Poughkeepsie, and a small hill to get on to the rail trail. We first went East (away from the walkway) and then turned around. By the time we got to the Walkway it was sunny, slightly windy, and HOT. If there was one thing I would change about this race, it would be to run the Walkway first, then the rail trail portion. We ran to the Highland side and turned around. There was a nice church choir singing on the Highland side which was very motivational! Other than this, there were not many “fans” along the race route which was kind of disappointing. Back across the walkway, and down the same route through Poughkeepsie and back to Marist. HUGE hill RIGHT before the finish line, luckily there was a lady at the top cheering people on; I also knew my good friend Tara was at the finish line waiting for me so I just had to make it up that hill! Aid stations along the route seemed to be at a good distance apart and were clearly marked where to find water vs. Gatorade.
After the race, they had a huge tent set up for snacks and athlete recovery which was nice. I was happy when I found some chocolate milk – my favorite post long run “snack”/recovery drink! I waited for Lisa to finish and then we took some photos by the river.
Now, I run and ride my bike on this route at least once a week. I almost regret spending money to race somewhere that I already spend so much time. So, I would not recommend this race for my local friends. BUT, for someone who has never been on the Walkway Over the Hudson, it may be a more exciting experience, as the Walkway and views are very beautiful. Also, the expo, post-race experience, and swag were all good!