The Algonquin 50K is an amazing race that has runners coming back year after year! I have to think that our region of Delmarva must have a higher percentage of ultrarunners than most areas because of this event.

This was my first (and only) 50K in 2017. I came back to run the race in 2021 and 2022, but I wasn't able to finish either of those years. There was terrible weather in 2021 and I was having personal issues with plantar fasciitis and coughing in 2022. Finally, I was able to cross the finish line this year (even though my finish was just barely unofficial). There is an eight-hour cutoff and cutoff times to meet at aid stations along the way. If you make it through all the aid station cutoffs, then you are generally able to continue on to the finish line (although you can be pulled at any time if the race crew deems that necessary).

The volunteers at this event are top-notch and do whatever they can to help you along the way. As an example, this year was very cold and volunteers helped clear out my frozen bottle tubes. There are plenty of snacks at the aid stations, along with water and Tailwind, and including Smith Island Cake.

Race management is also top-notch. Runners are kept informed about the event and there are two days of packet pickup to get your bib and shirt. Swag this year was a fanny pack or blanket, plus a shirt, magnet and koozie. There are always unique swag items; last year's included a backpack.

While the terrain can be tough as it's a trail, there aren't hills to deal with. This year, the course was pretty frozen and surprisingly dry, but it can be very wet and muddy. There are also roots and some sand, along with a dirt road section that is about a mile (you go on that part twice). It's in the woods so it is a nice course, though not super exciting scenery.

Finishers get a beautiful handmade finisher mug. If you don't finish, your mug is smashed.

Parking is easy at the park; carpooling is recommended.

This is a great event and I would recommend it to anyone! Check out my full recap on the blog at She Runs by the Seashore dot com.