April 2026 Articles
Upstate Sports magazine is available free at 600 locations in the New York Capital Region, Adirondacks and beyond. Even if you’re unable to get your hands on a printed issue, you can view the full issue flip magazine or read the individual articles below it.
banner image: Erin Poland, Jono Freeman, and friends riding a variety of steeds on Seven Bridges Road in Old Chatham at the 2025 Farmer’s Daughter Gravel Grinder. Dave Kraus/KrausGrafik.com
By Dave Kraus & Darryl Caron
It’s April in Upstate New York, and that means... SPRING! Well, maybe, kind of, almost… The daffodils are blooming, green leaves, and warmer days are on the horizon. For area cyclists, it’s time to dust the cobwebs off those bikes, and if you haven’t already, get a tune-up with your local bike shop. Then, mark these late spring’s events on your calendar, and register for them – to make sure you and your friends or family do them together. READ MORE
May is Packed – Exciting Races for All
By Mona Kulkarni Caron
Enjoy the bounty of spring races with this preview of May events. There’s a distance for every runner or walker whether you’re just getting started, at your peak fitness, or somewhere in between. Get signed up. READ MORE
By Erin Quinn
Spring has sprung! The peepers are peeping, the trilliums and trout lilies are blossoming, and humans are getting a hankering to head out into the woods and onto the trails to take in the majesty of spring’s awakening after a long winter.
By Kevin Fisher
“What are you doing?” some hikers ask as I burst out of the woods onto the trail. “Orienteering!” I respond before diving back into the forest on the other side, glancing back to see some confused looks. READ MORE
Delightful Run for Women – It’s a Special Event, Make It Happen!
By Megan James
Since 1979, Albany has been home to one of the premier women’s-only races in the country, the Delightful Run for Women. Historically and familiarly known as the Freihofer’s Run for Women, the event was rebranded in 2024 due to a sponsorship change. Whichever way you slice it, it’s more than “just a race,” and it is still all about women, by promoting health, fitness, and community support for girls and women of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. And all participants still receive a delicious box of Freihofer’s chocolate chip cookies! READ MORE
By Jeremy Davis
Hiking is an activity that almost anyone can enjoy. Here in Upstate New York, we are lucky to have a nearly endless supply of hiking trails for all abilities. Many clubs and groups cater to all kinds hiking aficionados – seniors, beginners, nature lovers, youth groups, and more. READ MORE
By Joanne E. McFadden
If you’re a paddling enthusiast, you’ve likely heard the name Danny Mongno. He’s been involved in the paddling world for 38 years in a variety of capacities, sharing his love of the sport with hundreds of people across the globe. READ MORE
Tours and Rides – Ride Hard, Feel Good
By Dave Kraus & Darryl Caron
Multiday cycling tours across New York can open the door to whole new worlds for cyclists. Seeing new places, making new friends, and supporting worthy causes are all great reasons to take a look at these extended rides across the state. READ MORE
Strength Training for Total Body Fitness
By Kristen Jurcsak
Cardiovascular exercise is important to improve and maintain our health. The default American lifestyle is sedentary and people need to make time to move – as they say, use it or lose it! Being sedentary means that people are gradually becoming weaker over time. READ MORE