Iron Will 100

The Iron Will 100 returns to Junction City, Kansas on September 19th, offering a challenging yet rewarding ultramarathon experience for runners of all skill levels. Participants can choose from the grueling 160.9K course or opt for shorter but equally demanding distances such as the 80.5K and the 31-mile route. Each distance offers unique terrain with flat fast river trails that provide both shade and a firm yet slightly soft surface, ideal for maintaining speed throughout.
On race morning at dawn, runners will gather along North Highway 57 in Junction City to begin their journey through the city’s scenic parklands and riverside paths. The atmosphere is one of quiet determination as competitors prepare for hours of endurance running amidst the early autumn chill. With temperatures expected to range from mild coolness to moderate warmth, participants should plan accordingly with appropriate gear.
Since its inception, Iron Will 100 has become a significant event in the ultrarunning community, celebrated annually and drawing hundreds of athletes eager to test their limits on challenging but runnable trails. Over the years, it has raised thousands for local charities while fostering camaraderie among runners who push themselves through long miles under starlit skies or early morning light.
The course begins at North Highway 57 in Junction City’s parklands where participants will face a series of out-and-back segments along flat fast river trails that are well-shaded. Each distance features distinct layouts designed to challenge endurance and pacing strategies, with the longest event requiring ten such loops. Aid stations manned every five miles ensure runners have access to water, snacks, and medical support should they need it.
Weather conditions for race day in September typically include firm trail surfaces and moderate UV levels that can reach 5.0 on the index scale. With temperatures ranging from mild coolness early morning to comfortable warmth by afternoon, humidity is generally low but there’s a slight risk of precipitation late in the day requiring runners to pack weather-appropriate gear.
The Iron Will 100 offers four main race distances: the grueling 160.9K course for those seeking an extreme challenge; the versatile 36 Hour event designed around endurance and pacing strategies over varying terrain and conditions; two additional options, a 50-mile trek that includes five out-and-back sections along flat fast river trails, as well as a shorter yet intense 50K route consisting of one short loop followed by three longer segments. Each distance comes with its own entry fee.
Registration for the Iron Will 100 is available at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=130179 until August 27th to secure a race shirt in your preferred size and ensure eligibility for awards such as finisher buckles. After this date, late registrants may still participate but are not guaranteed shirts or awards.
Participants must pick up their bib numbers on September 18th at North Highway 57 near the start location between noon and 6pm. Be sure to bring a valid photo ID along with any required race entry confirmations from your registration email for pickup confirmation. Race day itself starts early, so arriving well before dawn is advisable.
The starting line of Iron Will 100 will be at North Highway 57 in Junction City where participants ranging from seasoned ultrarunners to first-time competitors can expect a rigorous but rewarding race experience on September 19th. For those looking for an intense endurance test and scenic trails under early autumn skies, the event is well-regarded among runners as one of Kansas’s premier ultra-distance races.