Whether you’re aiming for a course record or just want to enjoy the vibes, here is everything you need to know to crush this race weekend.

Start & Finish Location: Eakins Oval at the Philadelphia Museum of Art (2451 Benjamin Franklin Parkway).

Race Start Time: Both the Half Marathon and 7K kicked off at 7:30 AM.

Gear Check: Gear check was very convenient and opened early at 5:45 AM. It was located near the finish festival.

Course Limit: The course has a 3.5-hour time limit. This is pretty reasonable for a race this size.

Tips to Complete the Philly Love Run in Record Time

The Philly Love Run is known as a “flat and fast” course with a total elevation gain of only 84 meters, making it a prime spot for a Personal Record (PR).

Tip #1: Master the “Philly Tangents” – The first half of the race through Center City features many sharp turns. To save time and distance, run the straightest possible line (the tangents) rather than following the curve of the road.

Tip #2: Don’t Blow Your Lead Early – The first six miles are deceptively flat and fast. Crowds on Walnut Street will be loud—don’t let the adrenaline push you into a “banked time” strategy that burns you out before the hills.

Tip #3: Pace the “Surprise Hills” – While mostly flat, look out for a hill around Mile 6 and gradual incline around Mile 10 in Fairmount Park. Shorten your stride and maintain effort rather than speed on these inclines.

Tip #4: Manual Laps in the City – Tall buildings in Center City can mess with GPS watches. Rely on the physical mile markers and your manual lap button for the most accurate pacing.

Pre-Race and Post-Race Events

I absolutely loved the event planning for the Philly Love Run! The celebration starts long before the starting gun and continues well after the finish line.

Health & Fitness Expo: Pick up your bib and technical shirt at the Pennsylvania Convention Center (Hall G) on Friday and Saturday before the race. Friday is preferred if you want to get in quickly and get out. Saturday will take a little longer, but the expo is hype! Note: There is no race day packet pickup.

Finish Line Festival: From 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Eakins Oval, enjoy the “Beer Garden” hosted by VK Brewing Company, live music, and Philly favorites like soft pretzels. The beer and food were especially refreshing after the race!

Official After Party: After the race, I headed to Urban Saloon for the official after party! Flash your bib for drink specials ($4 Michelob Ultras, $6 Mimosas) and a free sports massage from Phila Massages.

Where to Eat: Best Post-Race Meals in Philly

This blog would not be called iRUNiEAT.com without discussing the best places to eat after the race. These top-rated spots are within walking distance or a short ride from the finish line:

Urban Saloon: The official after-party spot! Perfect for casual pub fare and celebratory drinks right in Fairmount.

Sabrina’s Café: A local favorite for massive “carb-loading” brunches like stuffed challah French toast.

Pizzeria Vetri: High-quality wood-fired pizzas located conveniently on the Parkway for a post-run pizza party.

Reading Terminal Market: If you can’t decide, head here for everything from cheesesteaks to Amish pastries.

The Philly Love Run is definitely a race to add to your spring race bucket list. Event management was excellent. The atmosphere was great and the race was well organized with great views of the city. Philly has so much to offer! Check out my upcoming post on the best Philly Cheesesteak I have eaten! Until later. Travel. Run. Eat. Repeat!

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Every year, in June, the Old Port Half Marathon kicks off. It is also known as the Shipyard Old Port Half Marathon & 5K, and it’s one of the most highly anticipated races in Portland, Maine.  I ran this race for the first time in 2024. I came back for seconds in 2025 due to the historic charm and scenic beauty of the city’s waterfront and due to the fact that my wife wanted a repeat! She ran the first race on a broken foot (unknowingly)! This was also the perfect place to check Maine off of the 50 Races 50 States bucket list! Portland is a vibrant New England city and this event, in my opinion, is one of the premier running events for runners and spectators alike in New England. The atmosphere was electric!

A Course that Showcases the Best of Portland

The half-marathon course for this race is simply beautiful and stunning. The course takes runners on a journey through the heart of Portland, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city’s rich maritime history. This Portland Half Marathon starts downtown. If you are not staying in a hotel near the start line, please arrive early to secure a parking spot. This was one of the few “cons” of the race. Parking was not cheap! However, as I said, this race was worth it!

Expect to pass iconic landmarks like Casco Bay and Back Cove, as well as traverse through the historic Old Port neighborhood, known for its cobblestone streets and charming architecture.

Portland Half Marathon – A Challenging Course

The course is not just visually appealing, but it also presents a challenge with rolling hills. There is a bit of a climb during the initial mile, but the course quickly levels out. Mile #2 will take you along the Eastern Promenade. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Casco Bay!  The sun shimmered off of the water and the numerous boats anchored in the bay reminded you that there is a slower pace to life that should be appreciated and embraced. After mile #3, you will head to the Back Cove.

The view of the city was breathtaking from the Back Cove. You should reserve your energy and fuel here accordingly because the upcoming Old Port section is particularly tough. As I was running through the Old Port section of the race, I couldn’t help but notice one of my favorite restaurants in Portland, Gilbert’s Chowder House! I made mental note to dine there after the race! Lol.

Alas, I had to finish the race before I could enjoy any libations! There was a notable hill around mile 9 and a significant hill around mile 10. After conquering these two miles the last 5K of the race was relatively downhill or flat with a very small climb as you head towards the finish line.

Race Day Atmosphere & After-Party

The race day atmosphere is electric, with enthusiastic spectators and volunteers cheering runners on. The “Enjoy Your Life” hype man for this race was absolutely awesome. Too bad I did not get his name! Shoes were not an option for him, rain or shine, and he made sure your enjoyed LIFE and the MOMENT!

The fun didn’t stop at the finish line. The post-race celebration, block party-style, was energizing! People of all ages were dancing, drinking beer from Shipyard Brewing, and enjoying life. Age is nothing but a number!

I found this race to be more than just a race to be undertaken, but it was a celebration of Portland’s history, community, and spirit. It was also my second half-marathon, and I was able to achieve a PR!

I am glad my wife and I got a chance to experience it for a second time. Another state off of the bucket list, but I got a feeling we will be back in Maine!

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One Step at a Time

The 2024 Honolulu Marathon was my first ever marathon and the weekend was an unforgettable experience! It was packed with Aloha spirit, personal triumphs, and stunning Hawaiian scenery. I am definitely not a seasoned marathoner so this course provided a challenging yet rewarding journey through Oahu’s beautiful landscape.

Embrace the Challenge:

Let me be the first to say to aspiring 1^st marathoners that care considering the Honolulu Marathon for their first race…it isn’t a walk in the park. There is an early 5 AM start which means some miles are going to be tackled in the dark. This is an interesting experience but works well because you avoid the heat and humidity of Oahu when the race begins. As the sun rose, the renowned heat and humidity of Hawaii came into play. Please make sure you carefully plan for this when considering your hydration and fueling strategy! The course, while generally flat, includes challenging uphill sections, especially around Diamond Head. Plan for these accordingly as well.

The Course & the Views:

This race was one I will always remember. Not just because it was my first marathon, but because of the course and views. At 5 AM, the race literally started with a BANG! By bang, I mean a firework display that rivaled the best ever seen. It set the tone for the race and pumped the crowd of 35,000+ runners! The race takes place on the second weekend in December, so the first few miles of the race are filled with the beautiful holiday decorations in downtown Honolulu and surrounding neighborhoods. Be sure to check out Iolani Palace! There are iconic Honolulu sights, including glimpses of world-famous Waikiki Beach, the majestic Diamond Head, and the beautiful Koko Head volcanic crater.

The course went through downtown Honolulu, past Iolani Palace and the Christmas lights, through Waikiki and climbed up and around Diamond Head, before heading out through Kahala and out to Hawaii Kai. Turning back after Hawaii Kai toward Kahala and Honolulu, the course passed Diamond Head again on the ocean side before finishing in Kapiolani Park. While some find the course less scenic than other marathons, many appreciate the unique experience of running in paradise and the encouragement from local residents along the way.

Finish Strong:

I found the finish line in Kapiolani Park to be a place of celebration, filled with proud runners and the supportive atmosphere of the Aloha spirit. Crossing that finish line was one of the best experiences of my life and you are rewarded with a beautiful medal, a finisher shirt, and a well-deserved malasada in the finisher’s village!

Lessons Learned:

Since this was my first marathon, I definitely learned some lessons that I will take with me as I continue to run:

• Hydration and Nutrition: Staying on top of fluids and electrolytes is paramount in the heat and humidity. Planning your fueling strategy well in advance and practicing it during training is essential.
• Mental Toughness: There were some challenging conditions during this race (heat, humidity, the hill at Diamond Head Crater) that will test your mental fortitude. Focus on your reasons for running and break the race into smaller segments to help you push through.
• Listen to Your Body: Don’t be afraid to adjust your pace and take necessary breaks. Failing to reach a time goal can still be a fulfilling experience.
• Embrace the Aloha Spirit: The Honolulu Marathon is a unique event with a strong sense of community. Enjoy the experience, connect with fellow runners, and embrace the vibrant energy of the race.

The 2024 Honolulu Marathon was confirmation to me that I can do whatever I put my mind to! I salute the dedication and perseverance of runners who embraced the challenge and celebrated the unique beauty of Hawaii with me! It was a memorable event that embodies the spirit of Aloha!

 

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Trail Location: Helena, Alabama

Address: 101 Appleford Road, Helena, AL 35080

Type of Trail: Walking, Jogging, Biking

If you are ever in the Helena, Alabama area and looking for a place to get in a quick run, head over to the Hillsboro Trail! The Hillsboro Trail contains approximately 3.6 miles of multi-use trail that connects residential communities, schools, and commercial areas. This is an easy out-and-back trail that is great for running, hiking, or road biking. This trail is relatively unknown to many outside of Helena so while you will probably encounter local residents, there will not be an influx of people.

There are many historic mile posts along the trail that allow you to take in the history of the area while you are getting in a walk or run.

The trail is located close to Old Town Helena and its quaint stores and restaurants. One of the best burgers I have ever had was in Old Town Helena at The Depot Deli and Grill. Check out the post here!

There is ample parking for those visitors looking to visit the Hillsboro Trail. Parking can be found at the Lee Springs Park entrance. As mentioned, the trail offers 2 miles of multi-use trails, but runners looking for a little longer run, can easily transition off of the trail and run within the Hillsboro residential community. Doing so will reward you with an amazing view.

Don’t miss out on this neat trail when you are looking for a place to walk or run!

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Running is one of the most simple cardio exercises and just about everyone can do it! It does not take a lot of equipment, a gym membership, or skill. The only thing you need to begin running is motivation to get moving and a good pair of running shoes.

Benefits of Running

Research has shown that running provides many benefits to those that engage in it.

• Running enhances heart health. Running 10 to 20 minutes per day at slow and moderate speeds below 6 mph was associated with significantly reduced risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular disease.
• Reduces stress levels and helps with anxiety. There is a positive correlation between running and reduced stress levels and improved mental health. There are some studies that suggest regular running can have the same effects as medication in relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression. It won’t happen overnight, but definitely consider running to help lessen your stress levels.
• Improves your ability to sleep. A normal sleep patter is essential for good health. Running has been shown to improve and help a person develop a normal sleep pattern. Chemicals released during and after running relax the body and helps with deeper sleep. However, running to close to bedtime can have the opposite effect, because running also gives you a temporary boost of energy. Please plan accordingly.
• Helps you lost weight. In a nutshell, losing weight comes down to burning more calories than you consume. Running is a great way to burn more calories! Running also stimulates a person’s metabolism and helps to regulate hunger mechanisms. While I am a big proponent of enjoying what you eat, please do so in moderation and embrace a balanced diet.

Starting a Running Routine

As you can see running has many benefits, below is a short list of steps to take to begin your running journey.

• Check with your healthcare provider. Prior to starting any exercise routine, it is recommended to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider. If you haven’t had a physical in a while, this can be helpful to allow you to gauge your fitness level and to help set fitness goals. A physical will also help you determine if it is safe for you to start running.
• Walk first. Before you start running, I recommend walking first. Build up your fitness level by increasing the amount of time you walk and the distance that you walk. If you rarely walk now, start off by walking 5 to 10 minutes a day and then gradually increase that time. Aim for 30 to 40 minutes of continuously walking before engaging in any sort of running.
• Properly warm up. Along with walking, perform some dynamic stretches before engaging in any sort of extended running. Research suggests that dynamic stretching performed prior to exercise increases hamstring range of motion and flexibility and decreases passive stiffness. Dynamic stretches include knee hugs, leg swings, and torso twists.
• Go slow when starting out. When you initially start to run, you should run at a much slower pace than you are able to. Most people start out the gate running too fast and they risk tiring to quickly or injury. The goal should be to end faster than you started.
• Utilize a run-walk approach. There is no shame in taking a walking break during a run. If you’re a beginner, you can start with alternating 30 seconds of running with two minutes of walking. If you repeat that eight times, and incorporate five minutes for both a warm-up and cool-down, you’ll have a well-rounded 30 minute exercise session complete.
• Cool down. It is a good idea to take a 5 or 10 minute walk at the end of your run to cool down. Engaging in some light static stretching is also recommended. Some of the best stretches for runners include the hamstring stretch, quad stretch and the reclined figure-four stretch.
• Stay hydrated and eat right. Be sure to drink enough water during the day and eat food that are nutritionally healthy for you. Aim for at least 64 oz. of water a day. If you are in hot and humid climate, be especially mindful of your hydration. You can also meet your water goal by eating food that have a high water content such as watermelon, fruit, etc.

Ways to Stay Motivated

• Join a running community or find a buddy. Joining a running group or meeting up with others is a great way to stay motivated to run. A person is more likely to show up if they know that someone is waiting on them. It helps with accountability.
• Register for a local race. Signing up for a race gives you something to look forward to. A 5K (3.1 miles) is a great starting race for beginning runners. There are longer distances as your progress (10K, 15K, half-marathon, etc.). Like traveling? Consider doing a challenge such as 50 races in 50 states. This type of challenge could continually keep you motivated to stay in shape!
• Create a music playlist to your liking. Pick upbeat and motivating songs that you love! Walking and running to music that you love will keep you motivated and give you that extra burst of energy you need to complete the last mile of your run or walk. You can create your own list by downloading songs you like or use a music service such as Spotify or YouTube Music.

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As part of our 50 races in 50 states bucket list, the wifey and I tackled Hilton Head Island in South Carolina! This race takes place every year on the 4th of July and is organized by the Hilton Head Running Company. Simply put, this race was awesome and definitely a great way to start the 4th of July holiday!

The race began just at sunrise and the course runs along the one of the most well known and beautiful beaches on Hilton Head Island (Coligny Beach Park). The event was entirely on the hard, flat, and fast beach! The beach offered PLENTY of room to run fast -or- walk with your family and friends.

The proceeds of this race went to a great charity – The Sea Turtle Patrol of Hilton Head. The Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island is a registered 501(c)(3) organization that provides annual monitoring and support on Hilton Head Island beaches for sea turtle nesting and hatching activity. Their work is conducted under the direction of SCDNR permit holder, Amber Kuehn. They also provide public education and outreach to promote awareness and to advocate for these endangered species.

Participants in this race receive a custom race shirt, finisher medals, and awards to the top finishers in various age groups. The race atmosphere was awesome and lively to begin. The 5K race began at 8:00 a.m. It was a little toasty but the breeze from the ocean made it very comfortable to begin. However, be mindful that the temperature does begin to rise as the race begins. Stay hydrated and dress accordingly! This races finishes by 9:15 a.m. and gives the family plenty of time to enjoy 4th of July on one of the most beautiful beaches in America. Be sure to visit one of the best spots to eat on the Island while you are there – Hudson’s Seafood Restaurant. You can’t visit Hilton Head without getting some fresh seafood!

July 4, 2023

Age Group: 45-49

Finish Time: 37:45.2

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Thank you for visiting irunieat.com. This blog is dedicated to those that enjoy running and the benefits that come with it. I’m Rodney. I have a passion for running and the community that embraces it. I also love traveling and eating!

I grew up in Alabama but moved to the Atlanta metro area around 2012. In November 2018, I was diagnosed with type II diabetes. I needed to lose weight and change my eating habits. Running was my answer. Initially, I took up running out of necessity, but I have grown to love it! I am happy to say that I manage by diabetes now through exercise and watching my diet. Although I will not deprive myself of a great burger and fries when I have a great run or travel!

I hope this blog serves as a resource for both newbie and experienced runners. I count myself as something in between these two. Most importantly, I want it to be a place I can share my journeys, different running locales, helpful tips, and great places to go and EAT after a run! I hope to connect with others who share the same passions for running, traveling, and eating! Thanks for stopping by!

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