Rick Albanese completed the Mad Marathon in Vermont, a race he had long anticipated. Endorsed by Chuck Engle, the atmosphere was enhanced by a wonderful pre-race dinner and camaraderie. Despite feeling underprepared due to a brief training cycle, Albanese relied on his experience and resilience from overcoming cancer. The challenging course, featuring steep ascents and descents, tested him, particularly as the heat affected his performance. Although he lost his sub-5-hour goal, he finished strong and felt proud of his accomplishment.