(Albany, N.Y.) – Organizers of the 48th Annual Delightful® Run for Women gathered with city leaders, partners, and supporters at Albany City Hall this morning to officially kick off the 2026 season and unveil several new initiatives designed to energize participants in the months leading up to race day on May 30, 2026.

The event highlighted the continued momentum of the Run, which draws nearly 3,000 participants each year and remains one of the Capital Region’s most beloved and empowering traditions. At today’s announcement, organizers revealed new programming, expanded opportunities for community engagement, and the official opening of registration for the 2026 event.

A centerpiece of the 2026 rollout is the launch of a new FitHer Forward Podcast , debuting this month. Hosted by Event Director Kristen Hislop, the podcast will explore themes of women’s wellness, longevity, confidence, and personal growth. Guests will include certified health coaches, physical trainers, and athletes, each sharing unique stories of resilience, impact, and empowerment. Episodes can be found through social media, and the Delightful Run for Women Youtube page . The first episode features long time health coach and former television news anchor and reporter, Benita Zahn.

“This podcast is a result of my experience with aging parents and my desire, as an older mother, to be present for my boys and their future families,” said Kristen Hislop, Event Director. “My grandmothers and mother were in their 30s when they had their children, and I followed in their footsteps. I know I’ll need my longevity genes––and some extra help. The Delightful Run for Women has always been about giving women the environment to find themselves, build confidence, and truly focus on their health. This podcast extends that mission in a meaningful new way.”

In addition to the podcast, organizers announced two new engagement opportunities for the coming season:

• A winter FitHer Forward Challenge designed to help runners and walkers of all levels stay active through the colder months, building community and momentum ahead of spring training. A private Facebook group will feature various tasks and incentives to get runners in tip top shape, including a tailored fitness journal. Registration is available online at the dedicated RunSignUp page.
• A first-ever LiftHer virtual 5K for men , giving male allies an opportunity to support the mission of the Run, encourage the women in their lives, and take part in the celebratory spirit surrounding the event. Participants will be able to log their run the week prior to the Run for Women, with registration available online.

Senator Patricia Fahy was unable to attend today’s announcement, but shared the excitement, "The Delightful Run for Women has been a staple in our community for nearly five decades, bringing our neighbors together for a good cause and uplifting women across the Capital Region. I’m grateful to the organizers for continuing to strengthen this tradition with year-round opportunities for people to stay active and connected. With nearly 3,000 participants joining each year, this event is a true reminder of the power of community, and I’m proud to support it. Good luck, runners!" 

The 48th Annual Delightful Run for Women will take place on Saturday, May 30, 2026 in downtown Albany with a 5K, Kids’ Run, and Capital Kids 3K. Participants will once again have access to the popular Training Challenge, a multi-week guided program tailored for beginners, returning runners, and seasoned athletes alike.

All registered runners will receive a commemorative performance shirt, a box of Freihofer’s® cookies, a loaf of Sara Lee® Delightful® bread, a finisher medal, and the opportunity to experience what many describe as the most empowering event in the region, if not the nation.

Registration for the 2026 Delightful Run for Women is now open.

For more information on the Annual Delightful® Run for Women, the Training Challenge, the annual Kids’ Run, and the Capital Kids 3K, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Albany/DelightfulRunForWomen. More information can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages.

Limited images and Broll for press may be found here.

About Delightful® Run for Women. For 47 years, the Delightful® Run for Women has set the pace for healthy participation in and recognition of women in sports, while inspiring generations of women to experience the benefits of exercise and nutritious eating. The annual event invites our nation's top female runners to compete head to head. They run on a closed road course among thousands of women from walkers to Olympians, each challenging themselves on the picturesque 3.1-mile race. For more information, visit the RunSignUp page.

About Bimbo Bakeries USA. Bimbo Bakeries USA is a leader in the baking industry, known for its category leading brands, innovative products, freshness and quality. Our team of 20,000+ U.S. associates operates approximately 60 manufacturing locations in the United States. Over 11,000 distribution routes deliver our leading brands such as Arnold®, Artesano®, Ball Park®, Bimbo®, Boboli®, Brownberry®, Entenmann's®, Little Bites®, Marinela®, Mrs Baird's®, Oroweat®, Sara Lee®, Stroehmann® and Thomas'®. BBU is owned by Mexico's Grupo Bimbo, S.A.B de C.V., the world's largest baking company with operations in 34 countries.