Ambulance Driver 5K at BADSONS Brewery

Get ready to hit the "mean streets and hills" of Derby, Connecticut, at the Ambulance Driver 5K, taking place on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at BADSONS Brewery. This event, now in its third year, offers an engaging 5K distance for runners of all levels, all while supporting the vital Storm Engine Company Ambulance & Rescue Corps, a non-profit dedicated to emergency services in the lower Naugatuck Valley since 1948. Participants can expect a spirited atmosphere, with the looped course starting and finishing dramatically under an oversized Old Glory provided by the Derby Fire Department.

The course itself guides runners through a quaint neighborhood and along the scenic historic Osbornedale State Park before turning around near the Derby High School complex. While known for its "hills of Derby," a water stop and an optional sprinkler station will be on hand to help runners stay cool, particularly given typical race day conditions in mid-July often see highs around 84°F and lows around 68°F. The Ambulance Driver 5K is celebrated as a true community event, praised for its engaging atmosphere where families and local businesses come together.

Your registration not only supports a great cause but also includes a short-sleeve technical race shirt, a coveted finisher medal, and a goodie bag brimming with swag. The post-race celebration at BADSONS Brewery is a highlight, offering a complimentary draft beer for runners aged 21 and over. Be sure to register early, as the first 250 participants will also snag 10 free wings from the Dew Drop Inn. For the younger enthusiasts, a Kids Fun Run (half-mile) returns for 2026, complete with a finisher medal and a fire safety swag bag. Awards will honor overall top first responders, top first responders by group, and new for 2026, age group awards.