Road to Coach Jeremy’s 100-Mile Race: 240 Days to Go

I accidentally signed up for a 100-mile Ultramarathon!

Technically it wasn’t an accident, but I’m still not convinced I meant to sign up. I keep asking myself:

• Who in their right mind even tries to run 100 miles?
• What am I even thinking?
• How do I even prepare to run that far?
• If I do run 100 miles, then what?
• What am I supposed to pack, everything?

These are the thoughts that have been running (pun intended) through my mind daily since signing up for the Wolverine State 100. Sure, there are options for a 50K and a 100K, but for some reason I decided last November that I should go ahead and sign up for the 100-mile option. Because, you know, why not?

The race looks wonderful!

I’ll be starting in Petoskey and finishing in Alpena, essentially running from west to east across the northern portion of Michigan’s lower peninsula. The course is a combination of single track trail, single lane roads, limestone paths, gravel roads, road shoulders, and a little bit of paved paths. The majority of the elevation is in the first 15 miles, and I keep telling myself it is all downhill from there. 😂

I’m currently about eight months out (the race is on 10/11/25), and I’m trying to push most of these questions and doubts aside. My only goal right now is to train consistently and stay healthy. Over the course of the next eight months, I will get the details figured out. I foresee a lot of trial and error in my future as well as leaning on a lot of resources regarding training, nutrition, equipment, and strategy going forward.

I’ve decided to chronicle my journey leading up to the WS100. Hopefully it brings some insight, entertainment, and laughter to others. Ready or not, 100 miles, here I come!