Sunday August 25th, 2024
Wellston, MI
Distance: Marathon · Half Marathon · 50 Miles · Ultra · Trail
Offical Race Web Site
Run a 50 mile or 50K ultra-marathon, 26.2 mile marathon or one of two 13.1 mile half marathons (one on Saturday or one on Sunday). Large race medals, great post race party and tons of friendship and fun..
| Division | Time | Name | Age | Home |
| Male | 6:49:48 | Stephen Breen | ||
| 2nd Male | 7:45:44 | Mike Bateman | ||
| 3rd Male | 8:21:09 | Austin Enns | ||
| 4th Male | 8:47:55 | Paul Van Kempen | ||
| Female | 8:55:41 | Andrea Yeiter | ||
| 2nd Female | 8:59:32 | Camille Akemann | ||
| 3rd Female | 9:04:12 | Lina Nowland | ||
| 4th Female | 9:15:37 | Clarissa Chesnut |
| Division | Time | Name | Age | Home |
| M 40-49 | 9:36:46 | Heather Art | ||
| M 50-59 | 7:45:44 | Mike Bateman | ||
| M 60-69 | 10:29:10 | Roger Vargo | ||
| F 40-49 | 9:22:58 | Majel Wells | ||
| F 50-59 | 11:15:24 | Carla Simonet | ||
| F 60-69 | 13:57:39 | Barb Hassevoort |
Running a 50 mile Ultra is a special experience and the North Country Trail Run will not disappoint. This course is full of beauty and full of challenges, which make it one of the best races around. You start the race on flat single trails and start to feel good but don’t worry, you’ll get over it. Around mile 4 you will encounter your first big climb, just remember it’s okay to hike this one, it’s too early in the race to waste too much energy. The course will then give you a few miles of rolling trails giving way to the relatively flat part of the course, but don’t worry, the hills will return. After each aid station starting with mile 14, you will see a decent climb, this will prepare you for the back half of the course.
The hills will come fast and furious, but keep in mind the beauty or your surroundings and the company of your fellow runners. Aid Stations are fully stocked with many goodies, be prepared when approaching the station and try to get in and out without wasting too much time… and don’t forget to thank the volunteers! As you approach the end of the loop take a quick peek at the top of hill where you can see for more than 30 miles and enjoy your descent to the start/finish area. When coming through the start/finish area, take in all the well-wishers and try to capture some of their energy for the second half.
After you finish the short loop leading you back to the start/finish area, get to the Aid Station and your drop bag and get focused on what lies ahead. Once you head out, don’t look back, just keep your focus ahead of you. As you approach the first big climb hopefully you saved some energy in the first loop, since this climb and the rest of them will seem twice as long this second time around.
The course hasn’t changed but the miles will start to wear you down, Continual Forward Motion will get you to the next aid station and eventually to the finish line! Have fun every minute of your race, encourage your fellow runners and enjoy your finish!
This race is incredibly scenic, and the medal you receive for finishing is stunning. The aid station folks are very helpful, and the pre race ceremony is heartwarming. The 13.1 and 50 mile distances are also available, and there is terrific camaraderie amongst the participants at the post race party!