Trail Talk: Issue 40: Training for the New York City Marathon
Some of our Pulaski County residents recently accomplished an incredible feat: completing the 2025 New York City Marathon—26.2 miles of determination and endurance.
To prepare for the race, these dedicated runners spent more than three months training, using the Panhandle Pathway for many of their longest runs. The Pathway became their go-to route for 14-, 16-, 18-, and even 20-mile sessions. They especially appreciated the mile markers painted every tenth of a mile, which made tracking distance—and pushing through those final challenging miles—much easier.
The runners also noted the Pathway’s practical benefits. The trees lining the trail offer a helpful windbreak on blustery days, and its length—stretching more than 23 miles—allows for long, uninterrupted runs in either direction. Most of all, they expressed gratitude for having such a safe, car-free, and accessible resource right here in Pulaski County.
There was only one drawback: terrain. The New York City Marathon is known for its hills, and replicating that elevation in Pulaski County is nearly impossible. Still, the athletes say the Panhandle Pathway remains their favorite local training spot for its beauty, convenience, and the chance to enjoy the county’s changing seasons.
We extend a heartfelt congratulations to our neighbors and friends who represented Pulaski County so well. Well done, runners—and thank you for showcasing the value of the Panhandle Pathway!
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