Jed Smith Ultra
Sacramento, United States • 31 Jan 2026
Jed Smith Ultra Classic : January 31, 2026
The Buffalo Chips Running Club hosts the 48th Jed Smith Ultra Classic in Sacramento, CA on January 31, 2026. The event is capped at 250 runners. Online registration closes January 28, 2026 at 11:59 pm; registration fees increase on December 1, 2025 and January 5, 2026. The race is held rain or shine and there are no refunds. All entrants receive a long-sleeve technical shirt in men's or women's sizing. All finishers receive a hand-crafted wooden medal. The marathon has a 9 1/2 hour time limit.
Course, distances, aid and logistics
The courses are USATF certified (BQ) and are nearly identical to the course used for the 2011 World Masters Championship Marathon. The event uses a 4.85-mile loop that crosses Guy West Bridge (Sacramento State campus) and Watt Bridge at Watt Avenue. The route is mostly flat and follows a paved bike path and some wide dirt trails along the American River Parkway. Local parkway rules require runners and pedestrians to use the left side and bikes to use the right side.
Distances:
- 50 miles
- 50 km
- Marathon
- 30 km
- Half marathon
There are two aid stations: the main one at the start/finish area and a second near Howe Avenue Bridge about 3 miles away. Stations are stocked with soda, water, GU sports drink, single-serve candy, gel and salty snacks. Cups are limited; runners are encouraged to bring their own. Race day packet pick-up and on-site registration are at the start/finish area from 6:30 am to 9:00 am. Free parking is provided at 8713 La Riviera Dr., with additional parking available across La Riviera in the Big Lots area. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.