Sweltering Summer Ultra

Sweltering Summer Ultra

The Sweltering Summer Ultra is an in-person 8-hour track event held at Clapp Park, 215 West Housatonic Street, Pittsfield, Massachusetts. The course is a certified .355-mile dirt and cinder loop around the park. Runners start counter-clockwise and switch directions at the four hour mark. Participants may use the full width of the track and may run on the outside grass surface.

The event uses chip timing with a live leaderboard. A signature bottle drop provides individual table space trackside and a no-contact bottle refill system for water and sports drink. Prepackaged refreshments are provided; runners may set up personal areas at least three feet from the outside edge of the track. Ice pops and pizza will be available for afternoon pickup. The first 74 laps include a marathon split.

Awards include overall champions and age division awards for 0-12, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, and 80 plus. Lifetime longevity and mile awards are also presented. The event is part of the BURCS BADASS race series with points and cumulative awards. Proceeds benefit the AYJ Fund, a northern Berkshire County nonprofit serving children facing a cancer diagnosis.

Registration closes August 6. Youth under 20 receive half price with code YOUTH50. Return entrants with at least three prior Sweltering finishes may use SERIALRUNNER for a discount. A possible 12-hour virtual option may be offered with eligible dates August 1 to August 14; virtual runners must submit proof of distance and pay an additional fee for a shirt. Deferrals for one year are allowed if requested in writing before July 1. Volunteer roles include setup, registration, aid station management, and cleanup. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.