Step onto the track at the 14th annual Sweltering Summer Ultra, set for August 8, 2026, in scenic Pittsfield, MA. This unique event, hosted by the Berkshire Ultra Running Community for Service (BURCS), offers both an 8-hour timed ultra and a 5K race, catering to both seasoned ultrarunners and those looking for a shorter challenge. The race unfolds on a certified .355-mile dirt and cinder track that encircles Clapp Park, providing a flat and fast surface. Runners will navigate the loop counter-clockwise, with a direction change at the four-hour mark, and are welcome to utilize the surrounding grass for varied footing.

Participants in the 8-hour ultra will appreciate the signature "bottle drop" system, allowing for individual aid station spaces trackside for quick, no-contact refills of water and Gatorade, alongside prepackaged goodies. Mid-morning ice pops and an afternoon pizza delivery add to the festive, supportive atmosphere. Known for its "family reunion-type vibes," the Sweltering Summer Ultra encourages camaraderie, music, and friendship, whether you complete one lap or 150. Typical race day conditions in early August bring highs around 79°F and lows near 58°F, with a 15% chance of precipitation, making for a warm but generally manageable summer running experience.

Adding to its distinct charm, the event features hand-crafted awards and medals from Ragged Cuts, and a whimsical "Wally Watermelon" challenge where runners can carry the watermelon mascot for a lap, prompting an additional donation to the race's charitable beneficiary. The Sweltering Summer Ultra proudly supports the AYJ Fund, a non-profit dedicated to assisting children battling cancer. Whether tackling the full 8 hours or the 5K, runners and walkers alike will find a welcoming and well-supported environment at Clapp Park, with chip timing, live leaderboards, and certified marathon splits available for ultra participants.