The Sombrero Sizzler returns to Jacksonville, Florida on July 18th, offering endurance runners a unique challenge across various distances in the heart of a former military base turned running paradise. This third annual event promises not just a race but an immersive experience that celebrates community and resilience under the scorching Florida sun. As participants gather at Cecil Field, they'll find themselves on a beautifully shaded 1.25-mile loop course, with much of it covered in asphalt or concrete pathways, punctuated by short stretches of grassy terrain. The base's pine trees provide welcome relief from the heat during early morning hours, though runners must prepare for full sun exposure later in the day as they circle back to start/finish line located at a pavilion area equipped with ample aid stations and food options. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as racers lace up their shoes or gear up for rucking, readying themselves for what promises to be an invigorating yet demanding event. Since its inception in 2019, the Sombrero Sizzler has become a cornerstone of Jacksonville’s running calendar, attracting hundreds of participants each year. With several categories available from three-hour sprints to grueling twelve-hour endurance runs and relay options for teams, there's something for every level of runner or rucker looking to push their limits in this pancake-flat setting. Awards are given out not just by overall placement but also to those who demonstrate exceptional spirit and community engagement throughout the event, reflecting a commitment beyond mere physical achievement. The Sombrero Sizzler unfolds on July 18th with pre-race setup beginning on Saturday, July 12th at 6 am, providing ample time for participants to familiarize themselves with the course before race day. Registration opens online through UltraSignup and includes fees ranging from $85 to $255 depending on chosen distance and relay options; early bird discounts may apply until June 30th. On-the-day packet pick-up occurs at the designated pavilion area starting at 6 am, with a pre-race briefing preceding each race's start time of 7:00 am. Aid stations are strategically placed along the course’s main route and near the finish line, ensuring that all runners have access to hydration and sustenance throughout their journey. Expect grilled food options including vegan choices such as burgers and brats alongside hearty breakfast fare like bacon — perfect for fueling up before another lap around this fast and flat loop. As July rolls in with average temperatures hovering around 28.8°C, participants should anticipate high humidity levels of about 78% while preparing themselves mentally and physically against the possibility of brief showers amounting to approximately 4.7mm rainfall throughout race day. With UV index reaching a "Very High" level at an 8.0 rating, protective gear such as sunscreen and sunglasses becomes essential.
Logistics for the Sombrero Sizzler are straightforward yet accommodating: set up begins early Saturday morning leading to July’s sunny Wednesday start time when racers will convene on New World Road in Jacksonville's Cecil Field area. Parking is conveniently located along a road that leads directly into the pavilion site where all race operations take place. Participants must register online via [https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134322](https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134322) and adhere to deadlines for early bird pricing. Bib pickup is available at the pavilion area on race day starting from 6 am, with all necessary gear required including proper identification. All races originate from and conclude back at 5827 New World Road in Jacksonville, Florida; participants should be aware of age requirements which vary by event but generally open to adults. First-time attendees are advised to arrive early for packet pickup and familiarize themselves with the course layout given ample time before their designated start times. The Sombrero Sizzler on July 18th invites runners from across Jacksonville, Florida to come together in a celebration of community spirit and athletic endeavor amidst beautiful surroundings — an event not just about crossing finish lines but also about pushing personal boundaries while enjoying camaraderie under the watchful eye of the sun.
Races Offered
12HR
Jul 18, 2026
straighten
Distance —
12 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$130.00
12hour Ruck
Jul 18, 2026
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Distance —
12 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$130.00
3 hour Ruck
Jul 18, 2026
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Distance —
3 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$85.00
3HR
Jul 18, 2026
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Distance —
3 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$85.00
6 Hour Ruck Relay
Jul 18, 2026
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Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$255.00
6 hour Ruck
Jul 18, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$95.00
6 hour Ruck
Jul 18, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$95.00
6 hour Ruck
Jul 18, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$95.00
6HR
Jul 18, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$95.00
6HR Relay
Jul 18, 2026
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Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$255.00
9 hour Ruck
Jul 18, 2026
straighten
Distance —
9 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$100.00
9HR
Jul 18, 2026
straighten
Distance —
9 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$100.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for July in Jacksonville.
thermostatTemperature
24.8° / 32.9°
wb_sunnyFeels like
28.9° / 36.5°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
11h 28m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
4.7 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
8.8 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Very high
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Very High (8.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
78.7%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:35
nightlight
Sunset
20:28
About Jacksonville
Learn more about the host city, Jacksonville.
Jacksonville occupies one of the most coveted spots on the Atlantic coast. Set amongst abundant beaches and possessing an ideal subtropical climate, its crown jewel is the unique habitat and natural beauty of the St. Johns River. For this reason and more, "The River City" is a popular destination for vacationers looking for a laid-back Sunshine State escape.
