Sam Gomez Road Race

Every spring, the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) campus in North Adams, Massachusetts, comes alive with the spirited footsteps of participants in the Sam Gomez Road Race. This cherished tradition, now approaching its 47th year, is more than just a 5K run; it's a vibrant celebration of community, legacy, and philanthropy.

The race began in 1978, but it wasn’t until 1984 that it was officially named in honor of Dr. Samuel Gomez, a beloved Philosophy professor at MCLA, formerly known as North Adams State College. Dr. Gomez was more than an academic; he was a visionary who founded the college's cross-country team and championed the bond between the institution and its surrounding community. His passion for fostering connections has left an indelible mark, with the race serving as a testament to his enduring legacy.

Over the past several decades, the Student Government Association (SGA) at MCLA has harnessed the race's popularity to support local charities, raising over $35,000 for local, Berkshire-based organizations. Each year, a different beneficiary is chosen, reflecting the diverse needs of the community. In 2025, the SGA has selected "No Paws Left Behind," a local nonprofit dedicated to rescuing and rehoming abandoned and stray animals. This partnership infuses the event with a unique energy, as participants run not just for personal achievement but to make a tangible difference in the lives of countless animals.

The race has evolved since its inception in 1978. Originally, both a 5K and a more grueling 10K course challenged participants, but by 2005, organizers decided to focus exclusively on the 5K race. Despite changes, many of the same runners return year after year, forming a tight-knit community within the event. One such runner, Ted Hutch, competed under Gomez’s leadership for 28 years, a testament to the race’s deep roots.

The course itself isn’t for the faint of heart. Winding around the MCLA campus and surrounding roads, it features two big hills that test even the strongest competitors. But the race isn’t just about competition—it’s about camaraderie and fun. Some participants take the spirit of the event to another level by running in costume. In 2004, when the race coincided with Halloween, runners took to the streets dressed as everything from superheroes to French fries, adding an extra layer of joy to the tradition.

The Sam Gomez Road Race is more than a test of endurance; it's a celebration of community spirit, a tribute to a remarkable individual, and a beacon of hope for local causes. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or a passionate supporter, the event offers a meaningful way to connect, contribute, and commemorate.