In the scenic landscape of New Kent County, a unique running group has emerged, bringing together a diverse set of individuals bonded by their love for both running and community. Meet the New Kent Fruitcakes: Beatrice, Cortney, Heather, Tabitha, Cathy, and Elizabeth, a spirited group of runners who found inspiration through shared connections and a passion for staying active.
Building Bonds Through Running
The Fruitcakes credit their group’s formation to a shared interest in running, their kids, and their participation with New Kent County Parks and Recreation, where Cortney and Beatrice volunteer coach a running group for youth. It wasn’t long before this tight-knit group, drawn together through their shared interest in running, began pounding the pavement together.
The group found its unique identity during the holiday season when they needed a name for a Christmas run. Thus, the New Kent Fruitcakes were born, a name that captures the group’s festive spirit and lighthearted camaraderie.
More Than Miles
For the Fruitcakes, running is about more than just covering distances. Their goals include keeping each other motivated, providing accountability even on the toughest days, and fostering a supportive environment. Training together for races, particularly half or full marathons, has become a shared endeavor, ensuring everyone is prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
"To keep moving, to have others hold us accountable and get us out the door even on the days we don't want to.” - Heather
A huge accomplishment for the Fruitcakes is completing 51.7 miles by foot for four consecutive years in the Cap Trail Summer Challenge. A major highlight for them is seeing the Trail from one end to the other.
“Three of us have done the Cap Trail Challenge (me, Heather and Cortney) every year it has been a challenge. We have added people every year since. We did it for "sanity reasons" (Heather) during the height of Covid. Now it is an event we look for because it does not seem right to not do it- the summer would not be complete without it! (The t-shirts and medal are a good reason to run too!)” - Beatrice
"Finally seeing the front side of the Trail this year. There is a stretch in JCC that's beautiful and has a bunch of trails off the trail." - Tabitha
Trail Tales: The Princess Run
The Princess Run stands out as a favorite event for the Fruitcakes. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Trail, the run holds a special place in their hearts. Running together, they find joy in the experience, creating lasting memories along the scenic route.
running through Challenges
Summer heat and busy schedules present challenges, but the Fruitcakes have learned to adapt. With a mix of working moms, homeschooling parents, and those with multiple jobs, coordinating runs requires flexibility and some creative solutions.
“Summer heat is always a challenge. Scheduling is always tough. We have working moms, a mom who home schools her kids and granddaughter, one who has worked two jobs... and life is there for everyone. So getting everyone together can be tough. Sometimes we have to run with who can show up. If someone is running solo there is the issue of having to do double miles because they do an out and back to the car. Parking can sometimes be an issue but we have found a lot of good places to park (and always leave a note on the dash explaining why the car is there.) No bathrooms are tricky too, so we pack supplies for that (but do not litter!) and have all become good at going behind trees.” - Beatrice
next for the fruitcakes: More Themed Runs
As the Fruitcakes celebrate their achievements, they look forward to future endeavors. Themed runs, sparked by the success of the Princess Run, are on the horizon. The group plans to inject creativity and fun into their runs, ensuring that each outing remains a unique and enjoyable experience.
“We had the best time doing the Princess Run. We will probably do something themed quarterly, at minimum. It keeps it fresh and definitely keeps it fun. The Princess Run started when Heather's granddaughter rode her bike on the Trail dressed as a princess. I saw the pictures and decided it would be a good idea for us to run as princesses down the Trail. I told the group and they all said yes. Then I bought my dress- Snow White- and they were stuck doing it!” - Beatrice
Trail Tips: Enjoy Every Mile
Emphasizing the enjoyment of the journey, the Fruitcakes offer sage advice to fellow runners:
"A 10-minute mile and a 14-minute mile are both still a mile." - Heather
“A mile on the Trail is always a good mile.” - Beatrice
Community and Friendship
For the New Kent Fruitcakes, running isn't just a solo activity; it's a shared adventure that strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. As they lace up their running shoes and plan for themed escapades, the Fruitcakes continue to embody the essence of community, friendship, and the joy of running. Whether it's for a Christmas run or a Princess-themed escapade, the New Kent Fruitcakes are not just a running group – they're a family on the move.
