Embark on an extraordinary ultra-running adventure with the Buckeye Ultra 200 Mile Road Race, returning on August 13, 2026, to Ashtabula, Ohio. This isn't just a race; it's a monumental journey covering approximately 203 miles, with a challenging 100-mile option also available. Kicking off from the scenic Walnut Beach at Lake Erie, the out-and-back course largely traces Ohio Route 45, leading runners through a diverse tapestry of Ohio's landscape, from lakefront streets and post-industrial towns to rolling mountain foothills and tranquil Amish country, before reaching Wellsville near the Ohio-West Virginia border. With just under 6,000 feet of total climb, the route features about 70 miles of rolling hills balanced with extensive flat segments, demanding both endurance and strategic pacing.

What truly sets the Buckeye Ultra apart is its "no frills" philosophy and unique self-supported format. There are no official aid stations on this open-road challenge, making runners responsible for their own navigation and resupply. Crews are highly encouraged for overnight stretches and sections with limited resources, though many runners successfully complete the event self-supported by utilizing the numerous stores, diners, and shops available along the route between 6 AM and 10 PM. Runners unable to complete the course must arrange their own return, emphasizing the self-reliant nature of this epic undertaking. Finishers of the 203-mile distance are celebrated with a distinctive Buckeye 200 buckle and a unique finisher's award, while those who achieve 500 lifetime miles on the course earn an exclusive buckle, a testament to enduring spirit.

With a generous six-day time limit for the 203-mile course and a 72-hour cutoff for the 100-mile option, the Buckeye Ultra challenges participants to average roughly 34 miles per day. Typical race day conditions in mid-August include highs around 80°F and lows around 59°F, with a 15% chance of precipitation, requiring runners to be prepared for warm weather and potential humidity. This event attracts experienced ultra-runners seeking a profound multi-day open-road experience, a true test of physical and mental fortitude across the heart of Ohio.