The D&L Blog

Record-Breaking Turnout at St. Luke’s D&L RaceFest

On Sunday, Nov. 9, Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor (DLNHC) celebrated a record-breaking third annual St. Luke’s D&L RaceFest, drawing registrants from 35 states, Puerto Rico and three countries. 2,017 Runners and walkers came together to traverse the Lehigh Valley’s three largest cities — Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton.

The four-race event showcases the Lehigh Valley’s vibrant communities while celebrating the D&L Trail and the smaller boroughs that connect them. Participants choose from four options: the St. Luke’s D&L Marathon, Marathon Relay, and the D&L Heritage Half Marathon— offered as both a run and a walk, all sponsored by St. Luke’s University Health Network.

All courses feature major portions of the D&L Trail. The 26.2-mile marathon route stretches from Allentown to Easton, while the 13.1-mile Heritage Half begins in Historic Bethlehem and finishes at Easton’s Scott Park.

“It was such an honor to work alongside the DLNHC staff with our event sponsor and partners across the entire Lehigh Valley to bring a successful St. Luke’s D&L RaceFest to life! We have such a unique course along the D&L Trail, and that is always a key feedback point from participants, volunteers, and staff alike. Thank you to everyone who came out to participate and challenge themselves. Thank you to each and every volunteer, without whom we could not put on this event. Finally, a huge thank you to all our sponsors and partners who help make the event a reality — through both financial and in-kind contributions, they are the backbone of support that makes it all possible,” said Race Director, Kacey Lloyd.

DLNHC launched the first D&L RaceFest in 2023, evolving from the former Heritage Half Marathon and reintroducing a full marathon and relay to the Lehigh Valley for the first time since 2019. That inaugural event drew more than 1,400 registrants. Now in its third year, RaceFest welcomed a record 2,019 participants — a growth of more than 6% from last year.

“It was incredible to see the Lehigh Valley come alive in support of our racers,” said Tony Pierucci, executive director of DLNHC. “Experiencing my first RaceFest firsthand and feeling the energy from the volunteers and participants was truly special. It showcased the character of this region in the best way. I’m excited to build on this momentum and create an experience that continues to highlight the Corridor and all the Lehigh Valley has to offer.”

Proceeds from St. Luke’s D&L RaceFest benefit Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, a nationally designated heritage area committed to preserving and celebrating the region’s industrial heritage. Funds support heritage education, conservation, health and wellness programs, and development of the D&L Trail — which is on track to become Pennsylvania’s longest multi-use trail, spanning 165 miles from Wilkes-Barre to Bristol.

St. Luke’s D&L Marathon Winners

• Chris Rosenberg, Bristol, Conn. — 2:37:42
• Masters: AJ Hameline, Macedon, N.Y. — 2:49:28
• Lindsey Oremus, Norristown, Pa. — 2:57:15 course record, women’s
• Masters: Lauren Finelli, Portsmouth, N.H. — 3:30:37

D&L Heritage Half Marathon Run Winners

• Shane Houghton, Easton, Pa. — 1:10:14
• Masters: Remy Mimms, Breinigsville, Pa. — 1:27:19
• Margaret Vido, Lafayette Hill, Pa. — 1:15:27
• Masters: Sheena Wells, Bethlehem, Pa. — 1:28:23

D&L Heritage Half Marathon Walk Winners

• Adam Insler, New Windsor, N.Y. — 2:24:07
• Lindsay Blomstrom, Allentown, Pa. — 2:04:58 course record, women’s

St. Luke’s D&L Marathon Relay Winners

• Army West Point, Clifton Park, N.Y. — 2:27:22 course record relay

DLNHC extends its gratitude to title sponsor St. Luke’s University Health Network; premier sponsors Northampton County and Service Electric; silver sponsors B. Braun, Discover Lehigh Valley, Old Farmer Tea Company, and Olympus; and water station sponsors Klunk & Millan, Mariner Wealth Advisors, Michael Baker International, and Provident Bank.

For race results, photos, donations and more information about St. Luke’s D&L RaceFest, visit race.delawareandlehigh.org.

Want to support St. Luke’s D&L RaceFest and the D&L Trail? Click here to make a donation and help keep the momentum going!