Ultrarunners looking to get a quick start to their 2023 season won’t have to wait long to do so. The legendary Gil’s Athletic Club (GAC) will once again provide an early ultra opportunity when it plays host to the 23rd annual G.A.C. Fat Ass 50K at 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at Bradley Palmer State Park in Topsfield.

The event dates back to 1998, and it has started the Massachusetts ultrarunning season all but three times. The 2004 and 2018 races were canceled due to dangerous weather, and the 2021 event was called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As is tradition, the event will use a 6.2-mile loop course that runners can run between one and five times, with five loops required for a 50K finish. The event will once again be free; however, runners who are able are asked to bring new clothing items to donate to local charities in lieu of entry fee. The clothing drive was a new addition to the Fat Ass 50K in 2022, and it was a big success as runners amassed three full bags of clothes to donate to the Beverly Bootstraps Thrift Shop.

Runners are also encouraged to bring a food or drink item to share at the aid station.

For more information, visit GAConline.net.