Phil, I didn't see any replies. Maybe everybody PM'd or emailed to you?
For running, I like variety, and lots of up and down. I was never a very fast road runner, so I get left behind on flat, road like trails. I catch the pack again when the going gets ugly: rough trail, steep up and down, etc. I would love a bushwhack race! Maybe when I retire, I'll get into orienteering a little more. I suppose I should develop a liking for the part I'm not good at, and run more flats, but there's only so much time.
I like the Adk Trail Run put on by The Mountaineer. I have been involved in that every year, either as a runner or a volunteer. It's a great event!
While we are on organized runs, I also enjoyed Seven Sisters when I ran that a few years ago. Also a great event.
I train locally on Prospect Mountain, Buck Mountain, and Pilot Knob (all on Lake George), because they are close enough to me for weeknights.
Cascade is fun for a short, steep stab.
The other trail where we keep track of time is the Great Range Traverse. My wife and I time that trip from the Roostercomb parking to the Garden (no Roostercomb summit, no Haystack). She like to get around the loop in 12 hours. A bunch of years ago I did it in 9:20, but I haven't timed myself on it recently. I think that would make a spectacular, very tough race; a real landmark! But it would be a tough sell because it's a popular trail.
Good luck with the article!
Tom