I am writing to share my appreciation for the recent Seashore Full and Half-Marathon held in Rehoboth Beach. As someone who has been running full and half-marathons for more than 20 years throughout Fredericksburg, Va., and Washington, D.C., I can honestly say this was my favorite race and course I’ve ever run.
From start to finish, the marathon was an exceptional event. The organization was seamless. Starting with packet pickup, the atmosphere was welcoming and energizing, and the course itself was scenic and fast – everything a runner hopes for once they reach the starting line and settle into the miles.
One of the highlights for me was the incredible support along the course. It was great to see so many areas of music and words of encouragement. The water stops were perfectly placed and arrived just when they were needed most, adding to the feeling that this race was truly designed with runners in mind.
This race was especially meaningful on a personal level. I have been running Seashore Striders races since 1988 with Tim and alongside my parents, John and Patrice Wolff. My mom and dad were the ones who first got me into running and introduced me to the Seashore Striders, often having us out running Striders races nearly every weekend. To have them there on race day cheering me on at multiple spots along the course was incredibly special and brought everything full circle for me.
Seeing Lee Masser’s photo displayed along the course, accompanied by words of encouragement, was also deeply touching. Every time I passed one of his signs, I smiled. It was a beautiful tribute and a powerful reminder of the sense of community and history that defines the Seashore Striders organization.
The post-race celebration was the perfect ending to an already outstanding day. The food, drinks and relaxed atmosphere made it a fun and memorable way to celebrate the accomplishment alongside fellow runners. It felt less like the end of a race and more like a celebration of the entire running community.
Thank you to Tim Bamforth and Mary Beth Hutton for putting on such a fantastic event. It’s clear how much time, energy and heart they put into this race, and it truly shows. I am already looking forward to returning and cannot wait for Dec. 5, 2026, when I plan to run the half-marathon again.
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