More Than a Finish Line: The Apple Blossom 10K

At the starting line for the 2026 Apple Blossom 10K, I felt a mix of nerves and joy. The tension came from intense training, including nearly 30 miles the prior week, and the hope to PR the race. Could I do it? The joy came from the energy of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, seeing old friends, pink and green clothing, and smiles in every direction. 

As we all bunched up and the starting gun sounded, I set out to discover my running limits, but found something else in the process. 

I settled into a controlled jog and decided not to glance at my watch. Over the first mile, including a climb up Jefferson Street and around Handley High School, I ran purposely slow, saving to accelerate on the downward slope of Handley Avenue and Washington Street. But when I arrived, there was a problem — my legs just didn’t have the juice. 

Straining down Washington Street — its rows of houses and overhanging trees a picture of Americana — I’d try to accelerate, feel fatigue build, and then back off. Friends and competitors glided by, as I realized this wasn’t my day. Passing Handley Library under a rising sun and a gentle breeze, I paced up Braddock Street’s hill, with heavy legs as I neared the crest. That confirmed it. I’d need to find another goal for the day. 

And I did. Handley’s lawn greeted me with an even road ahead, and I began focusing on the throngs gathered alongside, cheering with the energy of a Mardi Gras party. Carnival-like concession stands on the corner and the blooming trees of spring reminded me that this wasn’t just a race; it was a symbol of community, of celebration. Running alongside participants of all ages and abilities, I admired their focus on fun and friendship. There were no PR quests here. Only a good time on a spring morning creating memories. 

Then, turning left onto Jubal Early Drive, an open swath of asphalt ahead, I settled into a comfortable yet quick pace and realized why I love to run. My shoes popped off the asphalt as I sprang forward, an open ribbon of road in front, and I felt like I could go on and on. It’s that mixture of feeling healthy, enjoying oneself, and sharing it with others that makes the sport for me. 

Back in the opposite direction on Jubal Early, climbing Valley Ave’s hill, and turning around, I kept that same measured pace, grabbed some water from the SVR stand, and waved to a friend. The morning sun rose, with that special golden glow of spring, and I accepted this as a morning of running enjoyment, not optimal performance.

Over the final mile, lush trees lined Valley Avenue, spectators held signs and offered jovial encouragement, before the left turn onto Handley Ave. I made a final kick, salvaging some hope of PR, but it wasn’t to be. What was to be was a gorgeous morning in the Shenandoah Valley, and a celebration among friends and community. In other words, to me, the true meaning of running. But isn’t that why we’re all out there? 

Mark Reif finished with a time of 57:47 and placed 38th in his age group (45-49).

The Author, Mark Reif, is bib #2206)