Late Summer Paddling at DEC Campgrounds

By Rich Macha

The NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation operates 52 campgrounds in the Catskills and the Adirondacks (NYS Parks operates campgrounds in other parts of the state), many of which close in early September. However, a fair number of campgrounds do stay open through October 9 this year, and offer some quiet water paddling opportunities at or near the campground. Non-campers can access these locations with an Empire Pass or by paying a small day-use entrance fee of $6 to $8 ($10 at Nicks Lake and North-South Lake) per car. READ MORE

Medley of September Races

By Laura Clark & Mona Caron

Tired of squinting into a blazing sun? Well, the good news is that in just a short month away, the leaves will begin turning and we will trade hot and humid for cool and crisp. For some, this summer’s hot, humid weather has made long distance training more challenging, so you might want to include a medley of distances races into your game plan. The cooler weather bodes faster times, even if it seems like you have been snailing it all summer. READ MORE

Rethinking Balm of Gilead Mountain

By Bill Ingersoll

Sometimes the small mountains are the best hiking experiences. I keep a list of them in my metaphorical “back pocket” to recommend for people who want a memorable experience for modest effort. There are many such mountains scattered throughout the Adirondack Park, although many are bushwhacks; in my opinion the region would benefit if a few more of these “low peaks” had trails. READ MORE

Enjoy Late Summer – Rides, Tours and Races

By Darryl Caron

September is a great month to ride so learn more, sign up, ride/train, and we’ll see you out there.

Great Camp Sagamore: Gravel Experience in Raquette Lake on Sunday-Wednesday, Sept. 6-9. This multiday experience blends two days of guided, scenic gravel cycling in the morning with 20-25 miles per day on low/no traffic roads with a modern mini-vacation that provides you with a true connection to the landscape and history of Great Camp Sagamore, built in 1897.  READ MORE

Mark Wells

By Joanne E. McFadden

Mark Wells of Mechanicville had always wanted to try kayaking, but it wasn’t until a friend invited him for a paddle in 2011 that he got into the water. A week later, Mark owned his own kayak, and a love affair with the sport began.  READ MORE

Surfing Lake Champlain

By Caroline Patten

It’s 5:05am, and the WhatsApp group dings with a message from Gary K of South Hero, VT: “It's blowing solid. Dawn patrol or miss it.” A quick swipe to Sailflow confirms his report – the breeze is up, reading 19 gusting to 24 knots at the Colchester Reef meter, and wind enthusiasts all around Lake Champlain are starting to chatter about where they are going to link up for a session that morning. READ MORE

Saratoga Shredders Devo – Team Wins Second State Title

By Chris Yarsevich

On June 14, the Saratoga Shredders Devo mountain bike team won their second consecutive NICA State Championship. The team consists of athletes in grades five to 12 from across Saratoga County and beyond. NICA NY (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) consists of 17 teams from across the state that come together to race at different courses throughout New York. This year’s championship was held at Fronhofer Farm in Salem, NY (see below for exciting news). READ MORE

Get Ready. It’s Coming. – Unfathomable Future Costs for Youth Athletes

By Dr. Tim Maggs

There is a storm building in youth sports, and most people cannot yet see it. At first glance, everything looks exciting. Athletic complexes are expanding, tournaments are packed, and children wear professional-style uniforms while parents proudly watch from the sidelines. Social media is filled with rankings, highlight reels, championship celebrations, and college commitments. An enormous industry has developed around training, travel, equipment, recruiting, nutrition, recovery, and performance. It looks like progress. But it may also be a warning. READ MORE