One of the best parts of the Back 9 Endurance Run is that you get to decide what kind of day you want. There is no cut-off hanging over your head and no single right way to do it. Your finish distance is simply your mileage when you stop. Here is a quick guide to the choices on the table for Saturday, May 29, 2027.
- 12-hour solo. The race starts at 8:00 AM and ends at 8:00 PM. This is a full day on the 3.68-mile loop, finished in daylight, with a good dinner and a good night of sleep afterward. It is a fine first step into the world of endurance running.
- 24-hour solo. The clock runs until 8:00 AM on Sunday, May 30. You will see the sun set, run through the dark with your headlamp, and watch the sun come up over the Keweenaw. Pacers are allowed after dark, so a friend can keep you company when the miles get long.
- 2-person relay. You and a partner trade laps, with only one of you on the course at a time. It is a wonderful way to share the experience, and it leaves room to rest, eat, and cheer.
- 4-person relay. This is the social choice. Gather a group of friends, coworkers, or family members, share the loops, and build a camp around the gazebo. Past 4-person teams have covered well over 70 miles in 12 hours.
How do you choose? Ask yourself three questions. How much time can you realistically train each week? How do you feel about running at night? And would you rather test yourself alone or celebrate with a team? If you are new to long distances, a 12-hour solo or a relay is a friendly place to start. If you have been waiting for a reason to chase a big mileage number, the 24-hour solo is waiting for you.
Whatever you choose, remember that it is your race. The field is limited to 40 participants, so the atmosphere stays friendly and the aid area feels like a family camp. Registration closes Thursday, May 27, 2027, and fees go up after March 31, so there is a good reason to decide early. Please note that there are no refunds or transfers.
Ready to pick your challenge? Register on UltraSignup, call 906-289-4403, or email back9endurance@keweenawresort.com. We would love to see you at the Lodge.
