Run. Bike. Swim. Under the stars.

by pagodapacers

Wednesday Night Run Special Edition!

Join us on Wednesday, July 29 for the return of Run. Bike. Swim.

Meet in the parking lot at Wilshire Pool
3035 Van Reed Rd., Reading, PA 19608

At 6:15 PM, choose your adventure:

  • Join our regular Wednesday Night Run with one of our pace groups, or
  • Hop on your bike for a group ride.

After your run or ride, take some time to cool down or make a quick stop at Giant to pick up your favorite snacks and beverages before the pool reopens for the Moonlight Swim at 8:00 PM. (Food and alcohol are permitted at the pool, but please remember: NO GLASS CONTAINERS!)

At 8:00 PM, we’ll head into the pool and gather under the pavilion. A DJ will keep the music going until 10:00 PM while we splash the night away. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a summer Wednesday with your Pacers friends.

Cost

  • FREE for Pagoda Pacers members
  • $7 for guests

Whether you run, ride, swim, or just come to socialize, we’d love to see you there!

Next Away Game: Brickerville on 7/18/26

by pagodapacers

This month’s Away Game will explore the trails in Brickerville, PA. We’ll be meeting at the Horse-Shoe Trail parking lot on Pumping Station Road at 8 a.m. on Saturday, July 18.

The route will be a mix of gravel roads and single-track trail, totaling about 10 miles. Shorter options will be possible.

Special opportunity to plop yourself down in Hammer Creek to cool off after the run!!

Post-run lunch spot and exact route will be announced on the Facebook event, where you can also post other questions, carpooling requests, etc.

Hope you can join us!

Giving Back to the Trails: Volunteer on July 19!

by pagodapacers

Those of us who love trail running, mountain biking, and hiking are so fortunate to live here in Berks County, where there are so many great trail networks to explore.

But maintaining our awesome trails requires a significant amount of work. Luckily, we know that many hands make light work. Join your fellow Pacers on upcoming trail maintenance days, led by our own Cody Harris and Michael Whalen.

  • No experience necessary—all ability levels can help!
  • No need to bring tools or special equipment!
  • Volunteering can count towards community service hours or Pacer Passport requirements!

The next chance to help out is on SUNDAY, JULY 19.

Meet at 9 a.m. at Plum Creek Farm Market & Creamery (in the lower, gravel parking lot near 183).

Questions? Reach out to Cody Harris (Codyalan.harris@gmail.com).

NOTE: Volunteers who want to help out with maintenance on Blue Marsh trails must sign a Blue Marsh volunteer form before participating.

Justa Fatass Run on July 11, 2026

by pagodapacers

Mark your calendars for a Blues Cruise training run July 11, 6AM-noon (must start final loop by 11AM) at the Justa Road Parking lot off Brownsville Road
https://maps.app.goo.gl/X2BtCtGWR8zHN1j5A .

We are looking at a 5 mile, figure 8-ish loop with about 700 feet of climbing. This event will be a fatass-style run, meaning it is an informal gathering in which participants bring snacks to share and there is no registration or awards.

We’ll have cold water and Gatorade and mark the loop. You arrive anytime during the event (as long as you start your final loop by 11AM) and run it as many times as you like!

The beauty of this system is runners of all paces can enjoy a long run together at their own speed, while intersecting each other multiple times during the event.

Bragging rights available to those who complete the most loops or distinguish themselves in any other way that catches our fancy! The picture is the TENTATIVE course we are considering. Don’t miss out on the chance to see the mysterious Fugawi Aid Station location before race day! 

😜

***THERE ARE NO REST ROOM FACILITIES AT JUSTA ROAD. Nearest bathroom is at State Hill Boat Ramp; plan on stopping there on your way in. Bring a snack to share, hydration vest or belt, reusable cup, lawn chair, and some dry clothes if you don’t want to leave sweaty.

Post-run refueling at Ganly’s Irish Pub! https://ganlysirishpub.com/

Wellness Corner: Hydration

by pagodapacers

by Andrea Thrush

It’s that time of the year where we will start seeing increasing temperatures and humidity. Regardless of current level of fitness, it is important to make sure we stay hydrated. This article is set up in sections, so it is easy for you to find the subtopics that apply the most to you and your situation/needs.

The basics

Did you know:

  • about 2/3 of your body weight is water (National Institutes of Health, 2023).
  • One study found a link between dehydration and the development of chronic diseases in middle-aged people (National Institutes of Health, 2023).

Proper hydration affects…

  • most of our body’s day-to-day functions (USATF, 2015)
  • athletic performance (USATF, 2015)
  • our overall health (CDC, 2024)
  • our athletic recovery (United States Olympic Committee Sports Dietitians, 2011).
  • our mood (CDC, 2024).
  • our ability to think clearly (CDC, 2024).
  • our chances of developing kidney stones and constipation (CDC, 2024)
  • The USATF (2015) claims that just a 1% decrease in hydration levels can lead up to a 6% reduced athletic performance.

How much water?

According to the CDC and the USATF, plain water (versus sports/electrolyte drinks) is all that is needed to maintain hydration levels, as long as we are eating normal meals.

The “eight cups a day” rule many of us learned is not accurate, because the amount any one of us needs can vary based on many factors, such as the weather for that day, what we eat, our weight, if we are traveling by plane, etc. Try to ensure you drink smaller amounts throughout the day (CDC), and increase the amount on hot, humid, or dry days, as well as on windy days (USATF, 2015).

The USATF (and other sources) claim that the “pee test” is the easiest way to see what our hydration status is (look at the color of your pee). They also note that some medications and B-complex vitamins can make your pee darker than it might normally be.

Image source: United States Olympic Committee Sports Dietitians. (2011). The goal is to be between 1 and 3.

Dangers: While drinking too little water can be dangerous, drinking too much at once can be dangerous as well (USATF, 2015). The CDC recommends that no one drink more than 48 oz (1½ quarts) per hour to avoid medical issues from drinking too much of ANY fluids (this includes sports drinks). This is due to salt levels in our blood becoming too low (CDC).

Drinking alcohol can lead to dehydration, and increase the chances of heat illness for 24 hours after drinking it (CDC) See below for information on heat stroke and heat exhaustion, which can happen at anytime (not just while exercising).

Signs of dehydration (according to the United States Olympic Committee Sports Dietitians):

  • Lack of concentration
  • Early fatigue
  • High perceived exertion in training
  • Trouble tolerating heat
  • Delayed recovery
  • Muscle cramps
  • Loss of body weight exceeding 3% of normal body weight (post-exercise)

Electrolytes: (calcium, potassium, phosphorus, chloride, magnesium, etc.)

We lose sodium and potassium the most when we sweat, so if you are exercising for long amounts of time, or in heat, consider replenishing electrolytes. Otherwise, it is likely not needed, and water should suffice (CDC, 2015).

You can play around and make your own:

Plain coconut water has sodium and potassium, as well as carbohydrates (check nutrition labels for varying amounts between brands).

OR

2 cups water, 2t sugar, 1/8 t salt, and a splash of fruit juice (Larson, 2016).

Take action: tips for increasing water intake

  • Carry a reusable water bottle with you (CDC, 2026).
  • Freeze water in freezer-safe bottles for ice-cold water all day (CDC, 2026).
  • Choose water over sugary drinks (CDC, 2026).
  • Opt for water when eating out (CDC, 2026).
  • Serve water during meals (CDC, 2026).
  • Add a wedge of lime or lemon to your water (CDC, 2026).
  • Try healthier beverage options, such as black coffee, plain tea, sparkling water (my son adds a touch of 100% juice to his), or flavored water (CDC, 2026).
  • You can set alarms as reminders (Mayo Clinic, 2023).
  • You can use a bottle that tracks your intake, so you can track your progress (Mayo Clinic, 2023). You could always just use paper and pencil to track progress, or an app. Some Garmin models have a feature where you can add your water intake on the screen of the watch. If getting enough water is a struggle, tracking progress can be motivating.
  • Make drinking water a part of your routine. This can include times such as when you first wake up, when you eat your meals, brush your teeth, or even when you use the bathroom (Mayo Clinic, 2023).
  • Make it social – challenge a friend, coworker, family member, etc. (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

Heat related illnesses

Heat Exhaustion

This happens when the body loses too much water and salt (CDC, 2026). According to the CDC, symptoms include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Irritability
  • Thirst
  • Heavy sweating
  • Elevated body temperature
  • Decreased urine output

Heat Stroke

This is worse than heat exhaustion, and the body can no longer control its temperature (CDC, 2026). According to the CDC, symptoms include:

  • Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech
  • Loss of consciousness (coma)
  • Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
  • Seizures
  • Very high body temperature
  • Fatal if treatment delayed

If you or someone you are with experience either heat exhaustion or heat stroke, call 911. Get them out of the heat and into shade or AC. Help them drink some water, and try to help cool their body down by removing unnecessary clothing/layers (including shoes and socks), wetting their skin and clothes, and get air circulating if possible.

References/for more information:

(1) Centers for Disease Control. (n.d.) Heat Stress: Hydration. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/UserFiles/works/products/training/keepingcool/2017-126_hydration.pdf

(2) United States Track and Field. (2015). Track & Field Coaching Essentials: USA Track & Field Level 1 Coach Education Manual.

(3) United States Olympic Committee Sports Dietitians. (2011). Sports Nutrition – Fluid for Athletes. (provided by USATF Level 1 Coaching Credential program).

(4) US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2026). Heat-related Illnesses. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/heat-stress/about/illnesses.html

(5) US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Fast Facts: Data on Water Consumption. https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/php/data-research/fast-facts-water-consumption.html

(6) Larson, A. (2016). Fuel For Sport: The Basics (Exercise Science Collection).

(7) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2026). About Water and Healthier Drinks. https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-weight-growth/water-healthy-drinks/index.html

(8) National Institutes of Health. (2023). Hydrating for Health: Why Drinking Water Is So Important. https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2023/05/hydrating-health

(9) Mayo Clinic. (2023). Tips for drinking more water. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/tips-for-drinking-more-water

Registration Opens July 1 for Fall 2026 Season of “Girls on the Run”

by pagodapacers

The excitement is already building for our Fall 2026 season! Registration opens Wednesday, July 1, and we can’t wait to welcome returning and new participants for another season of confidence-building, connection, and fun. Teams will begin meeting the week of September 7, and we look forward to seeing girls across Berks and Schuylkill Counties discover their limitless potential. For more information on how to register, please visit https://www.gotrberks.org/

While we count down to fall, take a moment to relive the joy of our Spring 5K at Penn State Berks! It’s a wonderful reminder of the impact our Girls on the Run community makes together. Be sure to check it out:

Andrea Adam  

Chair, Board of Directors

Girls on the Run Berks County

Race Results (June ’26)

by pagodapacers

Want to see your race results in the newsletter?

Send them to newsletter editor Matt Brophy at Matthew.L.Brophy@gmail.com!

Cayuga Trails 50-Miler

10:19:51Cody Harris

Laurel Highlands (70.5 Mile Trail Race)

18:42:12Andy Styer

The Big Run 5k

23:07Matt Brophy
29:23Jackie Lanyi1st F 60-69
35:10Yuriko Beaman

Emmaus 5-Miler

50:19Jackie Lanyi1st F 60+

Run for the Ages 10k Trail Chase

53:27Brian Stoltzfus6th Overall (age-graded)
1:16:03Jackie Lanyi1st F 65-69

Third Thirsty Thursday 5k (June ’26)

22:39Brian Stoltzfus1st M 60-69

Next Membership Meeting: 7/9/26

by pagodapacers

Tobias Frogg Berks
2613 Hampden Blvd, Reading, PA 19604
Food at 6:30 PM | Meeting at 7:00 PM

NOTE: This meeting will take place in the upstairs loft area!

Come early, grab a drink, stay after—it’s easy to chat, catch up, and socialize as a club before and after business. And if you need to skidaddle right after the meeting, that’s OK too.

Please remember to RSVP no later than Sunday, July 5!

Here’s your June RSVP link: https://forms.gle/EKmSaf1njUN6e5vB6

Minutes from the Monthly Meeting (June 11, 2026)

by pagodapacers

Pagoda Pacer A.C. Monthly Membership Meeting

Thursday, June 11th, 2026

Tobias Frogg:  2613 Hampden Blvd., Reading (upstairs in loft)

Michelle Henry presided

Jennifer Pierdomenico recorded minutes

26 members in attendance

CALL TO ORDER at 7:00 pm

Minutes from the May meeting were accepted as posted.

REPORTS

Treasurer Report (Shaun Luther)

  • Balance is $87,697 which is ~103% of target
  • A lot of BC and CH income (almost all of CH expenses are now in).
  • Scholarship awards ($4K) have gone out.

Charlie Horse (Shaun Luther)

  • Half
    • 106 registered runners (115 last year).  
    • 87 finishers (19 did not start).
  • Pony
    • 73 registered runners (46 last year).
    • 65 finishers
  • Was just a little wet and that probably had an impact on day-of signups.
  • Special thank you to all the volunteers
  • Next year is 30th anniversary.

Run for the Ages (Blair Hogg)

  • June 28th and registration is open for runners & volunteers.
  • Current registration is at 113 runners.
  • Still looking for volunteers, especially on the course.
  • Course setup is June 27th from 4-6PM (tying ribbons to trees)

Blues Cruise (Elaine Cook)

  • Upcoming course runs
    • July 11th, 6AM to noon Justa Road lot.  FATAss run and loop length is about 5miles and course will be marked.  Facebook event has been created.
    • August 15, Skinners Loop (6 mi) and optional ski loop (7mi).
    • September 12th, Lower stilling Basin to Old Church Rd. (6-7mi) with Skinners Loop option.

Oley Country Classic (Jennifer Pierdomenico)

  • Registration starts July 1st.  
  • Runners will have shirt/no-shirt options this year.  No shirt 10mile/6K fee pre-Labor Day will be $25/$20.  Shirt will be $18 to add onto registration.

Trail Maintenance (Cody Harris)

  • June 21st at Long Creek parking lot starting at 9AM.  Facebook event to be posted.
  • Over 70% of Blue Marsh trails have been mowed.

OLD BUSINESS

NEW BUSINESS

GOTR (Andrea Adams)

  • Thank you to the Pacer Members that volunteered at Penn State Berks event in May.
  • Over 2500 people were in attendance this past season.
  • GOTR has given out nearly $21K in scholarships between Fall & Spring.
  • Fall event on 11/7 at PSU Berks and possibly another one 11/15 in Schuylkill County.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Berks Senior Living doing an article profile of an “older” Berks County runner for upcoming issue.  Contact Michelle if you’re interested.

MEETING ADJOURNED at 7:22 pm

This is the end of the July ’26 Newsletter. Continue scrolling if you would like to view older content.

Run for the Ages on 6/28/26

by pagodapacers

A trail run for all ages!

The Pagoda Pacers Athletic Club is excited to present of one of very few trail races on the east coast with an age-graded start. Race directors Blair Hogg and Kristen Rothenberger are experienced trail and ultra runners and long-time members of the Pagoda Pacers.

Top age group performers have a legitimate shot at the overall title. Even if you aren’t out to win, you can enjoy challenging yet very runnable trails in beautiful Nolde Forest with virtually no bottlenecks. Challenge your families, friends, and coworkers to come out and compete on a “level” playing field. The top 10 overall finishers in recent years have been a good mix of men and women in many different age groups.

What’s an age-graded start? Those who have more than a few grey hairs or have yet to hit puberty will get a head start based on age and gender. Typically, the oldest female wave starts first. Then, each following wave will start, based on 5-year age groups, working back toward the younger (faster?) folks. Waves start bouncing back and forth between sexes, as the handicap derived from the World Masters Association dictates. The youngest runners also get a head start. The actual handicap for each age division is posted at http://www.PagodaPacers.com.

More information about the race:

The top ten overall finishers, regardless of sex or age, plus the fastest uncorrected time, earn awards specially crafted by Nolde Forest Pottery. If participation numbers merit, medals are awarded to two fastest M and F in the following age groups: 12 & under, 13-15, 16-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75+. Gift certificates from Fleet Feet (West Reading) for overall top three: $50/$30/$20. Team Award for any group of 3 or more (you define family).

REGISTRATION/ENTRY: Race-day registration will be available if the race limit of 250 entries is not reached. The race fee is $35 and includes race swag. Swag guaranteed if registered by June 1st. After June 1st, swag is not guaranteed. We race in rain or other inclement weather. The race director reserves the right to delay the start of the race due to mega foul weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Check http://www.pagodapacers.com for postponement info if the weather is hurricane-like on race day. Award ceremony held at 10 am.

YOU GET: Two water stops, finish place posted immediately & results on Pretzel City Sports, UltraSignUp, and http://www.pagodapacers.com in 1-2 days. Follow our Facebook page for updates about race swag!

COURSE: A well-marked 10K course over the beautiful trails in Nolde Forest. VERY pretty and scenic with fewer ankle-busting rocks than most other Berks parks. You’ll scramble over some rocks and go off trail to get dirty, too. The race will start in front of the Environmental Education Building and head directly into the forest after minimal time on pavement. Most trails are wide enough for easy passing. The finish will be right near the start by the Nolde Mansion. A map of the course is on the Pagoda Pacer website and will be available before the race.

LOCATION: Race held in Nolde Forest, Cumru Township, Berks County, PA, just south of Reading, PA. The race will start and end near the Nolde Mansion. Note: Enter via Main Entrance, NOT the Sawmill Parking Lot!!

DIRECTIONS: 6 miles south of Reading, on PA Rt. 625 (New Holland Rd). 2 miles south of PA 724 and 3 miles North of PA 568. Address: Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center, 2910 New Holland Rd. Reading, PA 19607

PARKING: Parking near the mansion is extremely limited. Please, please, please carpool and get there early! We will have volunteers directing you where to park to use every available space. Please follow their directions.

IMPORTANT NOTES: The Pagoda Pacers strongly discourage the use of headphones during any race. Also, parents: If your child is under 18 and wishes to run, you MUST be present for the duration of the race. You may also run (we encourage it!). In the unlikely event your child gets hurt, medical personnel can ONLY treat him/her with your permission. As this is a PA state facility, alcohol is prohibited. Follow our Facebook page for additional information at https://www.facebook.com/RunForTheAges

register now!

Triple Trail Challenge

Runners who already completed the Charlie Horse Half Marathon (or Dirty Pony 5k) should register for this race, along with the Blues Cruise 50k (or relay) if they want to be eligible for the Triple Trail Challenge (or Triple Trail Starter Pack).