Sufferfest on Section 4
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Sufferfest on Section 4
Sufferfest on Section 4 is a Fat A$$ style event held on August 8, 2026 in Middleburg, Florida. The format gives participants a five hour window to traverse Section 4 of the Pioneer Trail as many times as they can. Section 4 is roughly 2.5 miles one way and is run out and back on mainly single track terrain with technical sections, switchbacks, hills, and overlooks of Black Creek and nearby vistas. Organizers note typical August heat and humidity in northeast Florida as part of the event conditions.
The field is limited to about 40 to 45 participants because the course is single track and parking at the Phillips Branch parking area, known locally as the "4 way" parking area, is limited. Alternate parking areas exist but the event encourages carpooling to reduce parking issues. The event is free to enter, and donations on the day are encouraged; any funds collected will be donated to the Friends of Florida State Forest for trail maintenance.
This is a cupless event, so participants are expected to carry their own hydration and fueling. Organizers will provide an igloo with water, an igloo with Skratch electrolytes, and some pickle juice at the halfway point; these resources may not always be manned. There is no formal timing, but a participant who completes the most loops may receive a complimentary entry to a future race and a random entry giveaway will be offered. A loop tally method will be used to track laps. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
