AORTA News: May 4th, 2026
Upcoming Local Races
May 16th: Race for a Summer of Second Chances 5K
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM (1-Mile), 8:30 AM (5K)
Fee: $30 (1-Mile), $35 (5K), $25 (Virtual 5K)
Where: Town Creek Park, Auburn, AL
Description: Lace up your sneakers and join us for a cause that's close to our hearts! We are thrilled to announce our 3rd Annual Race for a Summer of Second Chances benefiting CARE Humane Society™️! Whether you're up for the challenge of a 5k or prefer a leisurely walk/run one mile, there's something for everyone!
May 23rd: Alabama Law Enforcement Torch Run 1M/5K
When: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM (1-Mile), 8:30 AM (5K)
Fee: $20 (1-Mile), $30 (5K)
Where: Wrights Mill Rd. Elementary, Auburn, AL
Description: Run with purpose at the Alabama Law Enforcement Torch Run on May 23, 2026! This 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run brings the Auburn community together to support Special Olympics Alabama. Hosted by local law enforcement, it’s a fun, meaningful event for all ages—run, walk, and make an impact.
Race Volunteers Needed!
As a runner, we know your time is valuable. But if you have a couple hours to spare, we could use your help for one of the upcoming AORTA supported or directed races! Assisting at a local race is a fun and rewarding experience. You are surrounded by health conscious individuals that, like you, are motivated fitness enthusiasts and appreciate the effort of volunteers.
Weekly Whimsy
Avoid These 10 Half Marathon Mistakes
The Running Week
Race day can be stressful if you’re unprepared. These 10 half marathon tips will help you stay calm, confident, and ready to tackle 13.1 miles, while avoiding the most common mistakes runners make. Reading up on half marathon tips specifically for race day can make a huge difference in how calm and confident you feel at the start line. While most runners focus heavily on training and preparation, the actual race day often doesn’t get the attention it deserves.
Race day preparation is just as crucial as the months of training leading up to it. Planning for proper nutrition, hydration, travel logistics, and gear can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Race day can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re running in an unfamiliar city or course. These half marathon race day tips will help you navigate the day successfully, whether it’s your very first race or your fortieth.
What to Focus on the Day of a Half Marathon
The most important tip for race day is to plan ahead. Study the course details, parking arrangements, and start times. Prepare your breakfast and pack all necessary gear. Create a mental strategy for staying calm and focused throughout the race. Take a moment for positive affirmations and remind yourself that all the training is done. Be present, soak in the excitement, and enjoy the day no matter the outcome.
10 Essential Half Marathon Tips for Race Day
1. Stick to Your Usual Meals
Avoid experimenting with new foods on race day, as this can lead to digestive issues. Eat the same dinner and breakfast you normally would before a long run. If toast or oatmeal works for you, stick with it even if you need to prepare it ahead of time.
2. Wake Up Early Enough to Eat
Plan to eat at your usual pre-run time. If your breakfast is normally two hours before running, set your alarm early to allow enough time for digestion. Keep your evening meal and snacks light to avoid discomfort on race morning.
3. Hydrate the Night Before
Proper hydration starts the evening before the race. Skip alcohol and caffeine and focus on water. Waking up properly hydrated helps you feel your best and offsets any dehydration during the run.
4. Maintain Your Normal Bathroom Routine
Bathroom stress is common on race day, especially with long lines. Stick to your regular routine as much as possible. If you normally run without a pre-run stop, do the same on race morning.
5. Map Out Your Start
Check the race course, road closures, and parking options ahead of time. Knowing the route and logistics in advance reduces stress and ensures you arrive relaxed and ready.
6. Don’t Obsess Over Training
It’s tempting to second-guess your preparation, but everything is already done. Avoid overthinking or worrying trust your training and focus on enjoying the experience.
7. Start in the Correct Corral
Start in the corral that matches your pace. Trying to jump ahead with faster runners can backfire, leaving you frustrated and off-rhythm. Pay attention as the race begins, as corrals can shift during the start.
8. Look for Cameras
Capture memories by spotting race photographers along the course. Smile, wave, or strike a pose so you’ll have photos to remember the day by, regardless of your finish.
9. Use Positive Mantras
Race day is perfect for mantras. Whether you’ve practiced them during training or not, phrases like “I am strong” or “I can do hard things” can help push through tough moments, especially in the final miles.
10. Celebrate Your Effort
Finishing 13.1 miles is an achievement in itself. Celebrate your effort no matter your time enjoy your finisher bag, share the moment with friends, or treat yourself to a favorite meal.
Common Half Marathon Race Day Mistakes to Avoid
Learning from others’ mistakes can be just as valuable as following tips. Here are common race day pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Wearing new clothes or gear you haven’t tested
- Starting out too fast
- Consuming caffeine without testing it first
- Failing to mentally prepare
- Overdoing carb-loading the night before
- Dressing for the temperature rather than the weather conditions
- Waiting too long to fuel during the race
- Changing your usual pre-race routine
- Wearing complicated or uncomfortable layers
- Ignoring post-race recovery and nutrition
Successful half marathon training takes dedication, but race day preparation is just as essential. Following these tips and avoiding common mistakes will reduce stress, help you focus, and allow you to fully enjoy the experience.
Link to article: https://tinyurl.com/yta3t6a4
Quote of the Week
I’ve got a great ambition
to die of exhaustion
rather then boredom.
Thomas Carlyle
Video of the Week
You Don’t Need to Run a Marathon (Seriously) (19:49)
Everyone thinks running a marathon is the next step… but what if it isn’t? In this video, we’re talking about the pressure to run a marathon; where it comes from, why it’s growing (hello social media), and why stepping back might actually be the best thing you can do for your running.
** AORTA provides this informational video to its members as a courtesy and does not endorse any particular product, process, or service.
Ongoing Events
RunGo For Turn-By-Turn Directions!
RunGo provides turn-by-turn navigation allowing you to just enjoy your runs without having to think about looking for street names and when you may have to turn next. Other great features include, audio cues with your running stats, split updates, the ability to share your runs via social media, and create new routes. Another great feature of the app is the ability to work offline. You can create and download your routes ahead of time, before your run so you don’t have to use data during your run.
Race Volunteers Needed!
As a runner, we know your time is valuable. But if you have a couple hours to spare, we could use your help for one of the upcoming AORTA supported or directed races! Assisting at a local race is a fun and rewarding experience. You are surrounded by health conscious individuals that, like you, are motivated fitness enthusiasts and appreciate the effort of volunteers.
Water Stop Volunteers Needed
Water stop signs and coolers are available at the following location: 1536 Professional Parkway, Auburn, AL. (Thank you Adahli Massey!). Coolers and signs can be picked up Monday-Thursday from 8AM-4PM and on Fridays from 8AM-12 noon. Items are in the room next to the back door. If you are unable to pick up supplies on these dates/times, e-mail clemster@aol.com to make alternative arrangements (we deliver!).
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