08/20/2026
What I remember most from my experience of running and then finishing the Buckeye route solo and self-supported in 2017 was how liberating it felt to run onto the beach, rip off my shoes and socks, and run into the water with no fanfare, no crowd, no cowbells or cameras, no timing mat. I had run because I wanted to do it; and doing it without anyone but myself to hold me accountable -- no rules, officials, official result or awards-- was a truly magical feeling. Journey runs are just that: runs that are about the journey. Of course, there can be tangible prizes and incentives to encourage one to complete the journey faster. But, the journey is still what leaves its mark, because all of the aspects of the more traditional ultra racing world are removed. Aid stations are coolers in someone's front yard, or snacks being handed out the window of a vehicle. Traditional bibs are often left out completely, or are replaced with a flag or piece of cloth. There is no medical staff. The finish line is a geographic point: a large rock, tree, body of water. Course markings are town squares or unique stores, followed on a map.
The Buckeye began in 2018 as the Olde 96er: a 102 mile run from Wellsville to Walnut Beach that utilized the 96 miles of SR45 plus an out-and-back mile to my home that was then along the course, and the 3.5 miles on 531 that lead to the beach. Of the original Olde 96er runners, several have continued to come back: Ronald Ross, Tim Hardy, Henry Lupton. Henry will be my co-race director in 2027.
The beauty and the magic from my own run are what I've tried to keep intact in the Buckeye. While there is an entry fee and a buckle reward, I've tried to keep the cost minimal, and the other awards, bibs, and aspects of the race in line with what this run challenge is all about. After 8 years, I'm still making button magnets and handmade bibs. I think it's important to keep certain pieces of the Buckeye's roots attached to its growth.
Community support has been incredible-- both in those living along our route who have extended their own generosity to our runners with cold drinks, snacks, a place to sit in the shade...and also our running community who have helped me keep this run challenge alive over the years. Thanks to Tom Nesterick, BJ Timoner, Kim Atkins, Henry, Derek Murphy, and this year-- Roc Powell, we've been able to transport drops, check on those moving on the course, and keep the event running smoothly. That isn't always easy when there are 50 runners stretched across 80 miles of road!
There will be a few changes in 2027.
First, we are moving back to September with a tentative start date of Thursday, September 9th. I'd like some feedback on this before I officially open registration for next year.
The 100 is returning to a 48 hour cutoff.
(Drops from the 200 will only count as an official 100 if they're within 48 hours.)
There will be a 1000 mile award introduced.
Finally, congratulations to Andrew Kelly of Liverpool, GBR for lowering the course record to 50:10:05!
Also congratulations to Tim Crow and Shanna Hansen for earning the 500 mile award.
Thank you to Roc Powell for assistance in transporting runners, and Henry Lupton for handling finishes on Monday and Tuesday. You kept things running smoothly!
The Buckeye is and has always been a labor of love. Thank you for keeping it alive and being a part of it.
Feral
