FAQ
What is Thumb Coast Ultra?
Thumb Coast Ultra & Relay is a point-to-point ultramarathon across Michigan’s Thumb, held on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Runners take on scenic, dirt and paved paved backroads and unimproved roads from Harbor Beach to Caseville, following the shoreline of Lake Huron. This spring race is flat, fast, and beautiful—perfect for both first-time ultrarunners and seasoned endurance athletes.
What distances are offered?
- 50 Mile: Point-to-point from Harbor Beach to Caseville
- 50K: Out-and-back from Caseville
- 50 Mile Relay: Teams of up to 5 runners split the full 50-mile course
How difficult is the course?
Thumb Coast Ultra is one of Michigan’s flattest ultramarathons, with gentle rolling terrain and minimal elevation gain. Most of the route follows dirt and paved rural roads with views of open farmland and Lake Huron. The race also spends time on unimproved roads. Some runners prefer road shoes; some trail. Runners should expect steady weather exposure—bring layers for wind and sun protection.
Is this a road or trail race?
This is primarily a road ultramarathon. The course uses paved and lightly traveled dirt backroads connecting small lakeside communities with some portions on unimproved dirt roads, particularly in the 50K. It’s ideal for runners looking for a fast course or their first ultra without highly technical trail sections. Shoe choice is entirely your choice, but most 50 Mile runners opt to at least start in road shoes.
What’s included with registration?
- A race jacket
- A gorgeous finisher medal
- Bumper sticker
- Reusable cup
- Fully stocked aid stations with hydration, electrolytes, and ultra-fueling real food favorites
- Post-race celebration at the finish line in Caseville - 2025 included cook to order breakfast!
- Chip timing by Trivium Racing
- Race photography
Are there official training plans?
Yes! Official Team Wicked Bonkproof training plans are available for both the 50 Mile, 50K, and Relay distances, designed by Coach Caleb. These structured plans begin with an 8-week base-building block (optional) before the official race plans kick off, helping you arrive strong and prepared.
Is there a relay option?
Yes! The 50 Mile Relay allows up to five teammates to share the full distance. Each runner completes one or more segments, handing off at designated exchange points along the course. It’s perfect for running clubs, friends, or coworkers who want to experience the ultra together. Check out the Relay Guide.
What’s the elevation gain?
The 50 Mile course features only ~500' of elevation gain—a few small rises, but no major climbs. The 50K course, which starts and finishes in Caseville, is also flat and fast, featuring only ~220' of gain. This makes it a great choice for ultrarunners chasing a PR or stepping up in distance for the first time.
What time does the race start?
The 50 Mile starts at sunrise and the 50K starts at 8:30 am. The 50M ruck starts at 5:00 am and the 50K ruck starts at 7:30 am. Check the event schedule page for full details.
Where is the start and finish line?
- 50 Mile Ultra & Relay: Start in Harbor Beach, finish in Caseville
- 50K Ultra: Start and finish in Caseville
Caseville serves as the hub for race weekend, hosting packet pickup and the post-race celebration. Check out all the important event locations here.
Will there be aid stations?
Yes. Aid stations will be placed approximately every 5 miles, stocked with water, Tailwind, fruit, pretzels, chips, Hüma gels, real food, bacon, candy, and other snacks. Check out the full Aid Station chart here.
Is there a time limit?
Yes. Runners have a generous cutoff of 14:53:00 for the 50 Mile race and 13:10:00 for the 50K. Relay teams must also meet the 50 Mile cutoff. There are also cut offs at certain aid stations that you must meet. Check those out on the Aid Station Chart.
Can I have a crew or pacer?
Yes! Pacers are welcome in both distances at any time as long as they're registered and follow the same rules as the athletes. They can register and read the rules here. Crews are welcome as long as they follow the rules, particularly that only one vehicle is allowed on course per athlete and bikes may not pace athletes. Please see pages 11 and 12 of the Athlete Guide.
Is there race-day parking and transportation?
Yes. Parking is available near the 50K start/finish, which is also the 50 Mile finish. Shuttle options will be available for 50 Mile participants and relays from the finish line in Caseville to the start line in Harbor Beach. Read here for more shuttle details. There is no shuttle from the finish line back to the start in Harbor Beach.
Where can I register?
Register now online to secure your spot and guarantee your jacket size. Registration closes the night before race day. There is no on site registration.
Can I volunteer?
Absolutely! Ultra races thrive on community support. Volunteers receive a volunteer shirt, the option of a future Trivium Racing race credit or a donation to a group, and major gratitude from our runners. You can sign up to volunteer here! Contact Cathi at cathi@triviumracing.com with any questions.
Who produces the race?
Thumb Coast Ultra is proudly organized and timed by Trivium Racing, known for creating memorable, community-driven races across the Midwest and East Coast. Other Trivium ultras include Wolverine State 100, Highball to Thurmond, Blackbeard’s Revenge 100, Summer Trail Fest Ultra, and Pilot Mountain to Hanging Rock.
Why should I run Thumb Coast Ultra?
It’s a road ultra with heart—flat, friendly, and full of small-town charm. It’s your chance to run across Michigan’s Thumb, powered by community, Lake Huron views, and a finish line celebration that makes every mile worth it.
I don't think I'm getting your emails.
We send a comfortable amount of emails; we want our runners to be informed and safe. If you haven't received one from us in over a month, especially if we're three months or less out from race day, you may be missing them.
- Have you checked your Spam folder?
- Have you check other folders your email provider "kindly" created for you and "conveniently" filters your mail into, like Promotions, Purchases, Updates, etc.?
- Have you added "noreply@runsignup.com" to your contacts?
If you've done all of this and want us to send you a test email, email Cathi at cathi@triviumracing.com.
Can I switch distances?
Yes! You can transfer from the 50 Mile to 50K (or vice versa) through your RunSignup account up until race week. Any difference in registration fees will apply. Instructions on how to transfer.
Can I change the size jacket I ordered?
You can change your jacket size by following these instructions. Keep in mind that some sizes may sell out within 2 weeks of race day.
Can I add a buff, shirt, etc. to my registration after I’ve already registered?
Just follow these instructions to add the item or update your add on options. Although some options may only be available until a certain date, most can be updated up to a week before the event. Most swag will be available for purchase at packet pickup, but sizes will be limited.
Do you offer refunds or deferrals?
Refunds: No refunds for any reason will be issued for this event within 30 days of the event start date. Earlier than 30 days before the event, a request may be made for a 50% refund (this will be 50% of entry fee, excluding any processing fees).
Deferrals: Entries CANNOT be transferred or deferred to another event or year. NO EXCEPTIONS will be made to this policy.
Can someone else pick up my packet?
Yes—just make sure they bring a copy of your confirmation email.
