Running Vacations: From Backpacking to Racecations

For years, Joanne was known as the 'Backpacker Flip Flops' because she traveled everywhere with a backpack and flip flops, regardless of the trip's duration or the weather. JFK Airport felt like home to her.  

So when Joanne discovered an opportunity in April 2017 to participate in a 5k running event on a runway at JFK, she HAD to seize it.  

One small issue - she knew NOTHING about running. While Joanne sprinted track in high school, she opted out of running around the entire track and joining cross country to explore other activities. She likely owned 3 pairs of sneakers that were over a decade old.  

When Joanne arrived at the race in her worn sneakers, she was puzzled by the pins she received - she always thought bibs were stickers! Dressed in her old sneakers, a random pair of shorts, and a shirt featuring her favorite airplane (the SST), she made her way to the start line. The atmosphere was electric, filled with excitement, nervousness, and energy, as people of all ages, ethnicities, and physical builds gathered for one cause. It was unlike anything she'd ever experienced. Joanne was hooked!  

The course was an out-and-back on the airport runway, with the turnaround point being an actual plane on the runway. SO COOL! Approaching the finish line and seeing the finishers archway, she felt an incredible sense of accomplishment.  

The very next weekend, Joanne signed up for another 5k running event, and then another, and another... Before she knew it, 'racecations'—her term for running vacations—became a whole new travel experience for her.  

Click here to learn about her favorite races!  

Click here to learn about her 6 Star Finisher goal!