The Sam Gomez Classic - Short Race

Race Information

The first North Adams State College Student Government Association (SGA) fundraiser road race was held in 1978 as an event to benefit charitable organizations in the Berkshires, specifically in the Northern Berkshire area. In 1986, the race was named after Dr. Samuel Gomez, founder of the Philosophy Department and Cross Country coach at the then North Adams State College. Dr. Gomez was an avid runner and he successfully brought in runners from all over the region to participate in the race. The race has continued annually to benefit the Berkshires and honor the memory of Dr. Gomez after his passing in 1998. The original race was (approximately) 15k long, running around the NASC area of North Adams. In 1980, a shorter "fun run" 3-mile version was added. As racing around the United States became more standardized, the race was changed to a 10k in 1990, and the fun run was changed to a 5k. In 2004 the event became a single race of 5 kilometers. For purposes of continuity, Berkshire Racing recognizes this event as the "short race" - starting as a 2.7-miler and evolving into a 5k. This is the modern incarnation of the race today. For information on the "long" (10k/15k) race that was discontinued in 2003, see Sam Gomez Classic - Long Race.