CAPITAL DISTRICT — Registration is currently underway for the 38th annual Freihofer’s Run for Women on Saturday, June 4 in Albany.
The first 4,000 entrants will receive a micromesh v-neck t-shirt. Other perks include free massages, chiropractic adjustments and discounted running gear at the event’s Health & Fitness Expo; clinics featuring elite athletes; live music both around the course and post event; refreshments courtesy of Price Chopper supermarkets; and races for the kids throughout the day. To sign up, visit freihofersrun.com.
“This is a wonderful event for first-time runners. They receive tremendous camaraderie from other like-minded females, as well as a chance to run alongside Olympians and world champions,” said longtime event director George Regan. “We encourage runners to register as early as possible, so as not to get closed out of our field.”
Those interested in getting in shape for race day can also register for the Sixth annual Freihofer’s Training Challenge (http://www.freihofersrun.com/ftc.htm). Training Challenge registration closes Sunday, April 3.
The popular 10-week program, which costs $45, follows an enhanced version of the Couch to 5K running plan and includes intermediate and advanced running levels, as well as a sports walking option for those seeking a different approach to reaching the finish line.
“Training times are offered to fit everyone’s work schedules. Everyone will take part in walking, jogging and/or running sessions led by our certified coaches,” said Regan. “The program features either three or four training sessions per week leading up to the event, depending upon the person’s skill level.”
All participants will select one of the following Monday Training Challenge sessions:
1.) The Albany Corning Preserve (Jennings Landing) at 6:30 a.m.
2.) The Crossings of Colonie (580 Albany Shaker Road) at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Everyone will then be asked to complete a second workout during the week at a convenient time. The third weekly workout session will be held in a group format on Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. at Colonie Town Park at 71 Schermerhorn Road. Each Saturday session will conclude with various seminars and clinics relating to nutrition, injury prevention, running form and core strength. Intermediate and advanced groups will also be asked to incorporate a fourth weekly workout on their own schedule.
“This is an excellent opportunity for women who have never run before to cross the finish line with a smile, give their motivation a boost and make some new friends, while preparing for race day,” said Training Challenge program director and coach Kristen Hislop. “With training advice provided by injury prevention experts, certified coaches and nutritionists, our program gives participants a tremendous amount of support to not only get started in running, but also continue running.”
For those who can’t participate in the full Freihofer’s Training Challenge, a virtual training program is also offered. For more information, please visit www.freihofersrun.com/virtual.htm
To register, visit freihofersun.com or call 518-273-5552. A dedicated Facebook page can be found at www.facebook.com/freihoferstrainingchallenge.
