Desert vs Dessert?

You always want more dessert so it has the second “s”.

Michelle Merlis could care less about dessert. She will be back for seconds in the desert!

THANK YOU NICK!!

After serving as HMRRC's Vice President of Running Events for the past four years, Nick Demos is stepping down and passing the baton to Casey Vincelette.

We asked Nick to share his insights about the role and his experiences during his time as VP of Running Events.

Benita Zahn writes about the Stockadathon 2025.

Dr. Benita Zahn is a certified Health and Wellness Coach working with clients at Capital Cardiology Associates. Benita spent more than 40 years as a health reporter and news anchor at WNYT in Albany, NY. She covered issues such as wellness, treatment breakthroughs, aging, nutrition, and the latest health care trends. Benita’s work has taken her around the world and across the USA. Benita is a contributor to the weekly “Live Smart” page in the Times Union, the HMRRC Pace Setter and the AAA digital magazine. Benita also created and co-hosts the podcast EVERYTHING THEATER.

THANK YOU MAUREEN!!

Maureen Cox has concluded an exceptional 13-year tenure guiding one of the Capital Region's signature running events, the Mohawk Hudson River Marathon and Half Marathon. In true Maureen style, she passed the baton with grace and zero fanfare to incoming race director Bob Barbato, who will take the helm in 2026.

Emily Taft's advice for 2026

You don’t need a perfect plan to have an incredible year of running - choose goals that feel exciting but realistic. 

1. Focus on your purpose, not just your outcome.
2. Build ranges instead of absolutes.
3. Think in seasons instead of the whole year.

Emily Taft is a local competitive runner and coach with Golden Runs. She works with runners of all abilities to help them set realistic goals and enjoy the process with custom training plans and support along the way.

Nothing is the same as going for a run.

Megan James explains how to choose your cross training with intention.

Spring PRs get their start in the winter! 

Nancy Clark shares three articles in this Pacesetter Issue:

Article 1 - Sodium: How much does a runner really need?
Article 2 - Managing Food while Traveling with a Team
Article 3 - Nutrition Podcasts for Runners

HMRRC is proud to welcome three extraordinary members into this year's Hall of Fame—runners and volunteers whose dedication has helped shape the Capital Region running scene. The Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding athletic achievement, long-term service to the club, leadership as race directors, and contributions to the sport across our community.

Congratulations to Josh Merlis, Megan Leitzinger and Karen Bertasso-Hughes!

This year's inductees were officially recognized at HMRRC's holiday banquet in December.

Local Fleet Feet Elite Women’s team runners Cara Udvadia, Karen Bertasso Hughes, and Tricia Longo delivered outstanding performances at the California International Marathon (CIM) in Sacramento, CA, on December 7.

All three athletes posted times that now place them in the top ten on the Greater Capital Region Track and Cross-Country All-Time Marathon list. Congratulations to these three outstanding athletes on their exceptional accomplishments out West! 

Article was written by Mark Mindel, current Marathon Coach of the Fleet Feet Vikings.

Sally Drake features a yoga pose that supports runners both on and off the road.

Yoga improves flexibility, builds strength, enhances balance and stability, relieves stress, and promotes faster recovery. Even just a few minutes of yoga added to your routine can positively impact your running performance, recovery, and overall mindset as an athlete. 

Sally Drake has been a runner in the Capital District community for over twenty years and is a 500-hour certified yoga teacher. 

Enjoy a look back at memorable racing moments in our region from January, February, and March—spanning 25 years and including pandemic challenges, Olympic Trials excitement, standout high school performances, and top results from athletes with Capital Region roots.

By Thomas and Sara O’Grady

James D. Thomas

July 15, 1946  -  October 12, 2025

The HMRRC community is saddened by the passing of Coach Jim Thomas. a longtime mentor, runner, and friend to so many.