Albany Comes Alive: 8,000 Competitors to Hit the Streets for the 2026 CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge! ***MEDIA ADVISORY*** ***Thursday, May 21 at 6:25 pm***
ALBANY, N.Y. – May 21, 2026 – This Thursday evening, CDPHP and the Hudson-Mohawk Road Runners Club (HMRRC) will welcome 8,000 runners and walkers representing more than 400 area businesses to the 2026 CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge!
Road Closures/Parking Restrictions
The 3.5-mile race begins on Madison Avenue (at the Empire State Plaza) at 6:25 pm. The Albany Police Department has issued road closures and parking restrictions on and around the racecourse. Please plan accordingly as the downtown area will be extremely busy due to road closures associated with the race and ongoing construction. Most roadways should reopen by 8 p.m.
Arrive Early for Pre-Race Activities
Race organizers also recommend arriving early to explore the sponsor tents on the Plaza and to meet up with teammates for pre-race photos. Commentary kicks off at 6 p.m., as we welcome a few words from City of Albany Mayor Dr. Dorcey Applyrs. Tameka Amar will return this year to lead us in the National Anthem before runners take off at 6:25 p.m. on the dot. Post-race, head back to the Plaza to pick up race T-shirts and refreshment bags before visiting some of Albany’s best restaurants to refuel!
Elite Fields Set for Competitive Showdown
This year’s race will feature deep and competitive fields on both the men’s and women’s sides. Kerry Flower enters as the favorite after an outstanding two-year stretch, highlighted by a 2:38:15 marathon and setting the course record at the 2025 Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon (1:14:32). Still, challengers including Karen Bertasso-Hughes, Tricia Longo, Emily Taft, and Nicole Moslander are expected to push the pace, making the women’s race especially competitive for the top three spots.
On the men’s side, three-time champion Ryan Udvadia remains the runner to beat, though he’ll face strong competition from Nicholas Marcantonio, a former professional triathlete, along with John Amenta and Killian McNamee. With talent across the board, it’s shaping up to be a very exciting race day.
Charity of Choice Donations Still Being Accepted
The CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge is organized by and serves as an important fundraiser for HMRRC. Proceeds will also benefit Crossroads Center for Children and Catholic Charities. Donations are still being accepted at www.cdphpwtc.com.
Media Coverage
Media looking to schedule pre- and post-race interviews, or arrange for live coverage from the event, should arrive early and contact Natalia Burkart at (518) 542-8524.