September 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: Christopher Blevins (USA) wins the Elite Cross Country Olympic, and secured the overall series title, at Mt Van Hoevenberg for the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series in Lake Placid, October 2025. Logan Swney/ORDA
Enjoy Fall – Rides, Tours and Races
By Darryl Caron
There’s no beating October riding. The weather is cool and comfortable and the foliage and scenery is magnificent. Upstate New York has some of the best events whether you’re riding, racing or spectating. READ MORE
By Mona Kulkarni Caron
With cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and vibrant foliage, fall running and walking is the best! You can reap the benefits from your fitness, and the race calendar is full of events suited for all ages and fitness levels. These highlighted events include 5Ks, community walks, half marathons and marathons. Learn more and sign up today. READ MORE
Off the Beaten Path – Fall Foliage Adventures
By Barbara McMartin
This updated article, selected by Barbara, was originally published in our October 2000 issue.
Many Adirondack trails remain little known and used but are interesting destinations for hikers with a sense of adventure. The routes are quiet, clearly marked and well maintained for the hiker. Within these areas you will find some of the region’s best trails and paths, which are appealing for all ages and abilities. This month’s featured hike is Jenkins, a small mountain that packs a mighty view. Just as important, this trail is safe for use during fall deer and bear hunting seasons. READ MORE
By Mona Kulkarni Caron
Fall is an ideal season for trail running, offering crisp temperatures, vibrant foliage, and fewer crowds, but it also requires adjustments for changing weather, slippery terrain, and shorter days. Trail races are abundant in the Northeast with options on every weekend throughout October and early November. Here are tips for novices and anyone who is considering adding or trying trail running – and a preview of upcoming races offering a variety of distances and terrain. READ MORE
By Jack Huber
On July 25, 2026, under a perfectly blue summer sky in Charlevoix, Michigan, I broke four minutes in the mile for the first time. Running a sub-four-minute mile had been my dream since I started running, but the mark became a realistic possibility for me only in the last couple of years. READ MORE
By Joanne E. McFadden
Michelle Carr was on the beach soaking in the rays of the French Riviera sunlight when Upstate Sports caught up with her. Not only was she basking in the sunshine, but she was also savoring the warmth of success after her first Ironman 70.3 World Championship competition. READ MORE
By Mike Huber
The Atlantic CEO and American record-holder Nicholas Thompson will discuss family, aging, and the enduring appeal of running at an Oct. 9 Writers Institute event
Nicholas Thompson has a wife and three kids, a very busy job, and a passion for running. Nick, 51, is one of the nation’s top masters runners. At age 44, he ran a marathon personal best of 2:29:12. He is also the American record holder in the 50K for both the 45-49 and 50-54 age groups. READ MORE
By Paul E. Lemanski, MD, MS, FACP
This column has emphasized a predominantly whole-food, plant-based eating pattern, such as the Mediterranean diet. The practical challenge is clear: Americans value convenience, and healthy eating must be convenient enough to sustain. Fortunately, with planning, it is possible to prepare nutritious meals efficiently – without making food preparation a second job. READ MORE