M22
Beginning with a shotgun start in the south-bound lane of M-109, athletes pass through the starting line and continue into the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Competitors then face a 100 yard climb up the infamous sand dune, bank left around a marker, run a short sprint along the top of the dune, and then make another left for a run down the dune face. Once off the dune, a short groomed trail leads runners back onto M-109 and concludes with a sprint back to the main event site and into the transitio
Described as one of Northern Michigan's most scenic bike routes, the 17-mile course will leave you breathless in more than one way. Leaving the transition area, (helmet mandatory) athletes dive right into a climb leading the way into downtown Glen Arbor and along the Crystal River. Be sure not to miss the right hand turn onto 675 that guides athletes along the eastern edge of Big Glen Lake up to Inspiration Point. The route then follows along the southern edge of Big and Little Glen Lake taking athletes thr
The paddle course sets off across the aqua blue waters of Little Glen Lake. Athletes often underestimate the importance of the paddle portion, but past years have shown that more then often the race is won or lost on the water. Athletes are able to choose from a surfski, kayak or SUP, however everyone must either wear or have a PDF on their craft. Just before shore, athletes dismount in the water and sprint for the finish line. This completes the M22 Challenge, the most beautiful race in America.
M22