The 47th annual Josh Billings RunAground Triathlon returns to Camp Mah-Kee-Nac on Sept. 10. This year, Abby Chaput will be calling the shots as the new race director.
Reflecting on her new role and the tenure of her predecessor, Patty Spector, Chaput said “assuming the position of someone with such big ties in the community like Patty has been an experience, but I am honored and excited to now lead this prominent local event. I’m happy to see the race return to Camp Mah-Kee-Nac and appreciate all the support from the racers, sponsors, volunteers, and spectators.”
Race proceeds will again benefit both the Berkshire Humane Society and Berkshire United Way (BUW).
The triathlon begins with the bike leg departing from the Price Chopper parking lot in Great Barrington at 9:30 a.m. The paddle leg follows at the Stockbridge Bowl boat ramp and the race wraps up with the running leg around Stockbridge Bowl before finishing at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac.
Learn more and register for the Josh Billings RunAground Triathlon
Chaput offered these reminders: road closures include Route 183 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Hawthorne Road from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; all parking is in the Lions Gate lot (there is no parking at the camp); “and please be respectful of Tanglewood property and staff during the event.”
“We always are amazed by the turnout and the incredible spirit of everyone at the Josh, and I wish Abby all the best in her new role as race director,” said Tom Bernard, president and CEO of Berkshire United Way. “Our team looks forward to volunteering again with the Kids Race. It’s always great fun and we are thankful to be a beneficiary of this event. Over the years our collaboration with the Josh has brought in $100,000 in donations to support our work.”
The Josh Billings Kids Race will begin at 2 p.m. at Camp Mac-Kee-Nac and is free for ages 5-12. Register noon to 3 p.m. on Sept. 9 at the Arcadian Shop, 91 Pittsfield Road, Lenox, or noon to 1 p.m. on race day at the camp (look for the BUW tent).