Based on data from station USC00203632 (20 mi away)
The VM150 - Veterans Memorial 150, set for May 23, 2026, is an epic 150-mile ultra-running adventure across the heart of Michigan. Beginning on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan in Ludington, runners embark on a remarkable journey eastward, culminating at Veterans Memorial Park in Bay City, near the Saginaw Bay. This challenging route offers a diverse landscape, starting with a mix of paved and dirt roads before transitioning to approximately 90 miles of the historic Pere Marquette Rail-Trail, known for its flat and fast profile with minimal elevation change, averaging a 0% grade and a maximum of 6%. The final miles guide participants along open roads into Bay City, completing a true coast-to-coast traverse from Lake Michigan to Lake Huron.
More than just a race, the VM150 stands as a profound "Honor Run," deeply committed to supporting and raising awareness for veterans, with past efforts benefiting organizations like Victory Gym, which aids veterans with PTSD through physical activity. This self-supported endeavor requires participants to enlist the invaluable assistance of a dedicated crew for the 52-hour cutoff, ensuring personal safety and timely aid across the vast expanse. While a few volunteers offer supplementary water and snacks at strategic points, including a cooked breakfast at the 100-mile mark in Clare, your crew remains essential for comprehensive support. Pacers are welcome to join from the Baldwin Trail Head, offering crucial companionship as you push through the immense distance. Typical race day conditions in late May bring comfortable highs around 70F and lows around 46F, with a modest 16% chance of precipitation.
Renowned in the ultrarunning community for its unique cross-state challenge and heartfelt mission, the VM150 on Memorial Weekend provides an unparalleled opportunity for seasoned ultrarunners to test their limits while contributing to a noble cause. Finishers are awarded a coveted belt buckle, a testament to their incredible endurance and dedication to honoring those who have served.