The Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K

Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K – November 8, 2026

The Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K is coming to Michigan on Sunday, November 8, 2026. This second year event offers a flat, fast, fully paved, USATF-certified course stretching across Michigan’s Thumb. The Marathon is a Boston Qualifier, and both the Marathon and Half will include pace teams from Beast Pacing to help you hit your goals. Starting in Caseville and finishing in downtown Port Austin, this point-to-point race delivers the perfect combination of speed, scenery, and small-town charm. Whether you’re chasing a PR, running your first race, or planning a fall race-cation, the Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon has it all.

 
Race Details

Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
Locations: Marathon starts in Caseville, Half Marathon in Sleeper State Park, 5K in downtown Port Austin—all finishing in Port Austin, Michigan
Course: Fully paved, flat, USATF-certified; Marathon is a Boston Qualifier

Why Run Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon?

• Fast & Flat: The Marathon and Half feature fully paved, USATF-certified courses, ideal for personal bests and Boston qualification.
• Pace Teams: Beast Pacing will guide Marathon and Half Marathon participants with consistent splits.
• Cool November Temps: Crisp, race-ready weather on Michigan’s Thumb sets the stage for strong performances.
• Run for a Cause: Every registration supports the Rock CF Foundation and its mission to improve the lives of people living with cystic fibrosis.
• Unique Experience: Traverse Michigan’s Thumb from one side to the other, while 5K runners loop around downtown Port Austin and finish in time to cheer on the Half and Full finishers.
• Race Extras: Participant swag includes exclusive gear, plus referral incentives that give you money back when friends join.
• Destination Vibes: Enjoy a fall weekend on Michigan’s Thumb Coast, complete with small-town hospitality, Lake Huron views, and a lively finish line atmosphere.
   

More Than Just a Race

Your experience at the Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon goes beyond the miles. Every step helps fund the Rock CF Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals living with cystic fibrosis through awareness, advocacy, and action. By racing with us, you’re not only pushing your own limits—you’re helping power life-changing programs and research.

 
Ready to run Michigan’s Thumb? Don’t wait—register today for the Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K on November 8, 2026 and be part of a flat, fast, meaningful race experience on the shores of Lake Huron.

All finishers will receive a finisher's medal. Overall and age group awards listed below will be presented on a rolling basis throughout the event.

 

Additional awards include:

Marathon: The top 3 men, women & non-binary overall, along with the top 3 men and women in each of the following age groups: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80 and over will receive awards.

Half Marathon: The top 3 men, women & non-binary overall, along with the top 3 men and women in each of the following age groups: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80 and over will receive awards.

5K Run: The top 3 men, women & non-binary overall, along with the top 3 men and women in each of the following age groups: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80 and over will receive awards.

 

Overall awards are based on Gun Time.  Age Group awards are based on Chip Time.

Virtual participants will not be eligible for awards.

Awards not picked up on race day will be subject to a $10 shipping fee. Awards will only be mailed 2 weeks from the event date. This is a chip timed event by Trivium Racing.

To complete your virtual race and receive your finisher medal and shirt, follow these steps:

• Run your marathon or half marathon at a place and time of your choosing.
• Track your time with a watch or fitness app.
• Report your time on our results page by clicking "Submit Virtual Results" at the top of the page. Results can be submitted anytime between October 1st and November 8th. Don't forget to share your virtual race selfies too!

Shirts and finisher medals will be mailed within 10 days of the in-person race day. International shipping will incur an additional fee. Contact us for a quote. Please double check that your mailing address is correct on your registration before race day.  No packets will be available after November 18th.

Virtual participants are not eligible for awards.

Any changes to virtual on or after race day will be subject a shipping charge.

What an unforgettable day in Michigan’s Thumb. The weather delivered one of those perfect fall mornings—crisp air, blue skies, and miles of shoreline glowing under the sun. Residents from Port Austin to Caseville lined the course with signs, cheers, and incredible energy, showcasing the kind of hospitality that makes this region so special.

To every runner, walker, volunteer, police officer, firefighter, local official, and supportive resident: Thank you. You brought this inaugural race to life in a way we’ll never forget. We’re already counting down the days until we return.

 
Overall Winners

Marathon

Male

🥇 Tommy Donohoe (Chicago, IL)
🥈 Austin Fullerton (Louisville, KY)
🥉 Stewart Haadsma (Sterling Heights, MI)

Female

🥇 Emily Kim (Ann Arbor, MI)
🥈 Julia Armstrong (Gaylord, MI)
🥉 Samantha Swenson (Fargo, ND)

 
Half Marathon

Male

🥇 Joe Robinson (Detroit, MI)
🥈 Parker Austin (Davison, MI)
🥉 Garrett Jurges (Ubly, MI)

Female

🥇 Amber Dermyre (Farmington, MI)
🥈 Emily Allison-Siep (Howell, MI)
🥉 Erin Simone (Kitchener, OH)

Non-Binary

🥇 Ruth Butters (Kalamazoo, MI)

 
5K

Male

🥇 Nicholas Ochal (White Lake, MI)
🥈 Lucas Halicki (New Baltimore, MI)
🥉 Liam Murphy (Grosse Pointe Woods, MI)

Female

🥇 Lily Vuckich (Royal Oak, MI)
🥈 Brystal Klinkman (Cass City, MI)
🥉 Olivia Crawford (Fort Gratiot, MI)

 

Event by the Numbers

Marathon Finishers: 204
Half Marathon Finishers: 379
5K Finishers: 152
Virtual Participants: 23
Volunteers: 61
Represented: 24 states · 12 Canadians · 2 athletes from Hungary

 

Club Competition Highlights

A total of 157 runners and volunteers represented 18 clubs, each earning valuable points in the Trivium Michigan Club Competition.

🥇 Oxford She Runs This Town – 619.5 points
SRTT packed the start lines with impressive participation and volunteered in big numbers—helping them make a major leap up the season standings.

🥈 Romano Racing Company – 508 points
Romano continued their streak of strong showings, with solid participation and consistency that helped reinforce their overall points lead.

🥉 New Baltimore Running Club – 377.5 points
NBRC brought another strong turnout, securing a podium spot for this event and climbing into third on the season-long leaderboard.

Supporting the Rock CF Foundation

At the heart of this event is the mission of the Rock CF Foundation, which empowers people living with Cystic Fibrosis to move, run, and thrive. Through their partnership with RUNdetroit, they ship running shoes free of charge to anyone with CF who wants to get active. Anyone living with CF also runs the Thumb Marathon—or Rock CF Rivers Half Marathon & 5K in March—for free.

Their Bowman Brothers Education Grants help adults living with CF pursue education and rewrite what’s possible for their future:

“CF was once your full-time job, but now you have a chance to reshape your future, reach new milestones, and thrive.”
The Rock CF mission gives this race its heart—and your participation helps fuel that impact.

 

Thank you to every participant, volunteer, sponsor, and supporter who showed up—not just for the race, but for the mission behind it. Your involvement directly fuels the work Rock CF does year-round and helps amplify the stories of people who don’t just survive, but thrive, with CF.  Thank you for making year one unforgettable. We’ll see you back on the Thumb Coast in 2026.

The Rock CF Thumb Coast 5K Run/Walk course will be set in historic downtown Port Austin, Michigan. More information regarding the specific starting location and course map below. The course will be an out-and-back along M25, featuring scenic views of Lake Huron.

Race Start Time: 9:00 AM

Race Starting Location: Downtown Port Austin, Michigan

Strava Map: https://www.strava.com/routes/3406308333738130992

All races finish at the Port Austin Welcome Center.  2 W Spring St., Port Austin, MI 48467.

 

 

Available for purchase during registration.  You can also add items in your RunSignup account, which you can access through your original confirmation email.  Instructions can be found at this link.  Items will be available for pickup at packet pickup on race weekend.

Early add on swag purchases close after 11:59 pm EST on November 4th, 2026.  Remaining inventory will be available for purchase at packet pickup.

 

Thumb Coast Marathon Buff

$5

 

Thumb Coast Shirt

$25

Unisex, soft, cotton poly blend t shirt to celebrate your run across the Thumb!

Men size chart(cm)
              S  M  L  XL  2XL
Length 70 73 76 78 81
Chest 49 52 55 58 62

 

Thumb Coast Sticker

$3

2" die cut sticker to commemorate your race achievement.

Below is a chart listing the available aid stations on course during the Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon and Half Marathon. Aid stations will feature water and Gatorade at all stations with a mix of other support. Note: Aid Stations locations and options available may change slightly due to course modifications and availability for 2026. Final locations will be published 1 month prior to the race.

 

Michigan

Mega Medal Series

Prove It 5K/10K:  April 18, 2026 at the GM Milford Proving Ground in Milford, Michigan

Trenton Summerfest Half Marthon, 8K, & 5K:  June 27, 2026 at Elizabeth Park in Trenton, Michigan

Dearborn Decades 5K:  August 9, 2026 at Ford Field Park in Dearborn, Michigan

Run the 313 5K:  August 22, 2026 at Palmer Park in Detroit, Michigan

Growler Gallop Atwater 10 Mile & 5K:  September 27, 2026 at Atwater Brewery in Detroit, Michigan

Black Toenail Friday Half Marathon & 7.5 Mile:  November 27, 2026 at Proud Lake Rec Area in Commerce Township, Michigan

 

Trail

Winter Trail Fest (WTF) East Half Marathon & 5 Mile:  February 14, 2026 at Island Lake Rec Area in Brighton, Michigan

Winter Trail Fest (WTF) West Half Marathon & 5 Mile:  February 21, 2026 at Yankee Springs Rec Area in Middleville, Michigan

Carpe Diem Carpe Noctem Morning & Evening Half Marathon & 10K:  April 11, 2026 at Proud Lake Rec Area in Commerce Township, Michigan

Summer Trail Fest Ultra (STFU) 50 Mile, 50K, Half Marathon, & 5 Mile:  June 13, 2026 Sleepy Hollow Rec Area in Laingsburg, Michigan

Moonlight Bootlegger 5k:  May 9, 2026 at Maybury State Park in Northville, Michigan

Wolverine State 100 100M, 100K, 100M Relay, & 50K:  October 10-11, 2026 from Petoskey to Alpena in Northern Michigan

 

Road

Thumb Coast Ultra & Relay 50M, 50K, & 50M Relay:  April 25, 2026 from Harbor Beach to Caseville in Michigan's Thumb

Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K:  November 8, 2026 from Caseville to Port Austin in Michigan's Thumb

 

North Carolina

Road Mega Medal Series

Only Fools Run Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K:  March 28, 2026 at Jaycee Park in Greensboro, North Carolina

Pig Pounder Brewery 5K:  April 12, 2026 at the Pig Pounder Brewery in Greensboro, North Carolina

Elm Street Run Festival:  May 9, 2026 at LeBauer Park in downtown Greensboro, North Carolina

Greensboro Distilling Speakeasy 5k:  June 13, 2026 at Greensboro Distilling Co. and SouthEnd Brewing in Greensboro, North Carolina

Greensboro Half Marathon, 5K, & 1 Mile:  November 21, 2026 starting at Battleground Ave in Greensboro, North Carolina

 

Trail Mega Medal Series

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Half Marathon & 5 Mile:  January 17, 2026 at Northeast Park in Gibsonville, North Carolina

Northern Trails 17 Mile, 10 Mile & 5 Mile:  March 7, 2026 at Northern Guilford High School in Greensboro, North Carolina

Owls Roost Rumble Half Marathon & 4 Mile:  April 25, 2026 at Bur-Mil Park in Greensboro, North Carolina

Triple Lakes Trail Race 40 Mile, Marathon, & Half Marathon: October 24, 2026 at Bur-Mil Park in Greensboro, North Carolina

Black Toenail Friday Half Marathon and 7.5 Miler: November 27, 2026 at Snow Camp, North Carolina

 

Multisport Mega Medal Series

Belews Lake Sprint Triathlon & Duathlon: April 18, 2026 at Belews Lake Marina in Stokesdale, North Carolina

Big Mack Sprint Triathlon:  June 20th, 2026 at Lake Cammack in Burlington, North Carolina

High Point Sprint Triathlon:  August 8, 2026 at Oak Hollow Marina in High Point, North Carolina

Belews Lake Olympic Triathlon & Duathlon:  September 12, 2026 at Belews Lake Marina in Stokesdale, North Carolina

Nat Greene's Revenge Triathlon & Duathlon: October 3, 2026 at Lake Brandt Marina in Greensboro, North Carolina

 

Multisport

Northeast Park Duathlon:  February 28, 2026 at Northeast Park in Gibsonville, North Carolina

 

Trail

Groundhog’s Lap Race: January 31, 2026 at Haw River State Park, North Carolina

Moonlight Bootlegger 5K:  May 2, 2026 at Hagan Stone Park in Pleasant Garden, North Carolina

Carpe Diem Carpe Noctem Morning & Evening Half Marathon & 10K:  September 12, 2026 at Hagan-Stone Park in Pleasant Garden, North Carolina

Pilot Mountain to Hanging Rock Ultra & Relay:  September 19, 2026 in Danbury, North Carolina

 

Road

Running of the Lights:  January 1st at Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, North Carolina

Blackbeard's Revenge 100 Ultra & Relay 100M, 100K, & 100M Relay:  March 21-22, 2026 in the Outer Banks in Corolla, North Carolina

 

Pennsylvania

End of the Road Half Marathon & One Tunnel 4 Mile:  October 24-25, 2026 on the old Pennsylvania Turnpike in Waterfall, Pennsylvania

 

West Virginia

Highball to Thurmond Ultra & Relay 50M, 50K, & 50M Relay:  May 17, 2026 in New River Gorge National Park, running from Montgomery to Thurmond, West Virginia

See the 2025 Athlete Guide to provide you with helpful information as you plan.  The 2026 athlete guide will be posted spring of 2026. As the race gets closer, the Athlete Guide will be updated frequently.  

Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon - Pre-Race Information Meeting: https://youtu.be/gj8wmwU2sDs

On the Detour Maps the orange lines are hard closures - large barricades, police/security/volunteers, directly at the race course. You cannot move or go around these; you'd be on the race course and runners would be unsafe. DO NOT DRIVE on M25 during the race times.

The yellow lines are soft closures. They let you know you're about to come up on a hard closure. You can go around them if needed.

Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon Club Competition

• All clubs, regardless of size, are part of the club competition.
• Awards go to the winning club
• All finishes count toward the 2026 Trivium Club Cup Competition

How Club Scoring Works at Thumb Marathon

• All finishers earn 1 point just for completing the race, so the more runners your team brings, the more you score.
• Age group placement earns additional points, with top finishers scoring up to 20 points (1st place) and down to 2 points (for 16th–20th).
• Overall podium winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd) earn double their age group points—for example, an overall 10K winner scores 41 points!
• Volunteers are a huge part of race day too, earning 5 points each for their club.
• And because Rock CF Thumb Marathon has three distances, the Marathon is worth double points and then Half Marathon is worth 1.5x points across the board—making it a huge opportunity to rack up a big score for your team.
   

The Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon, Half, & 5K is worth double points in the Overall 2026 Trivium Racing Club Competition!

 

2026 Trivium Racing Club Competition

• All clubs who compete also earn points toward the Overall, 2026 Trivium Club Competition
• The Overall season winner will be treated to a club party and receive the club cup to proudly display for the next year!
• Points normally start at 500 for first place and decrease by 50 points for each placement. (1st = 500, 2nd = 450, 3rd = 400, etc.).  Because Thumb Marathon is worth double points, first places earns 1000, second place earns 900, etc.
• Clubs placing 11 – 20 will receive 25 points.
• Club placing 21 and up will receive 10 points.
   

Check out the full club cup schedule and how points are earned here:

https://triviumracing.com/southeast-michigan-club-and-corporate-championship/

 

The Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon, Half, & 5K is worth double points in the Overall 2026 Trivium Racing Club Competition!

Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K – Frequently Asked Questions

General Race Information

When is the race?

The Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K will take place on Sunday, November 8th, 2026.

Where is the race located?

The races showcases the beauty of Michigan's Thumb in the late Fall!

• Marathon: Starts in Caseville and finishes in downtown Port Austin
• Half Marathon: Starts in Sleeper State Park and finishes in downtown Port Austin
• 5K: A loop course through downtown Port Austin, finishing at the same line as the Marathon and Half

Who produces the race?

The event is co-produced by the Rock CF Foundation and Trivium Racing.

 
Course & Certification

Is the course certified?

Yes. The Half Marathon and Marathon courses are USATF-certified.

Is the Marathon a Boston Qualifier?

Yes! The Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon is a Boston Qualifier.  It is USATF-certified and has less than 1500' of net downhill.

What is the course like?

All races are flat, fast, and fully paved, making them perfect for PR attempts or first-timers.

Will there be pacers?

Yes. Beast Pacing will provide pacers for both the Marathon and Half Marathon, covering a wide range of finish times.

Are strollers allowed?

Yes, however only small collapsible strollers which fit in your seat with you will be allowed on the shuttle.  Larger running strollers are not allowed on the shuttle due to space restrictions.

Are hydration packs allowed?

Yes.

Is the course closed?

The roads are closed in Downtown Caseville for full marathon runners. When the marathon begins on M-25, headed towards Sleeper State Park, runners will have the Northbound lanes and cars will be allowed to travel Southbound on the other side of the road towards Caseville.

From Sleeper State Park (Half Marathon start) to Port Austin (5K start, common finish), M25 will be fully shut down to traffic.  Roads in downtown Port Austin will be closed around the start/finish line at M25 and Lake Street.  Please use the detour maps in the Athlete Guide to see what roads to use in Downtown Port Austin.

Soft closure signs will be placed as early as 5:00 am along the course; however, official road closures will begin rolling onto the course at 7:45 am and continue to close north of the course about 20 minutes in front of the lead athlete.

Half Marathoners, you can drive on M25 from Port Austin towards Sleeper State Park.  You need to be parked by 8:00 am.  If someone wants to drop you off, they won't be able to drive back down M25 towards Port Austin because the road will be closed, but they could make a Left out of Sleeper State Park and head towards Caseville.  They could also turn right out of the park as long as they leave by 8:00 am and immediately turn right on State Park Road.  They could then turn left on Kinde and either follow detours to cheer for you or take Kinde to Van Dyke, back to Port Austin.

Are there bathrooms on course?

Yes, there will be a porta potty at each aid station as well as porta potties at the start lines and the finish line.

Is there gear check?

Yes, there is gear check at the starting lines of the Marathon and Half Marathon.  You can pick up a bag at packet pickup on Saturday or at the starting line.  If you're riding the shuttle and pick up your packet race morning, you'll receive your gear check bag before getting on the bus.

All gear check bags will be at the finish line around Lake Street and State Street.

 
Registration & Pricing

How do I register?

Register online!  You can register in person on race day at the start line, but participant shirt sizes will be limited.

When do prices increase?

07/08/2026 and 09/08/2026

Is there a referral program?

Yes! Share your unique referral link (found in your confirmation email). When 5 people register with your link, you’ll earn a $20 refund. (Valid for Marathon, Half, and 5K registrations.)  More details can be read here.

Can I switch distances?

Yes! You can transfer from the Half to the 5K or Marathon to Half, etc., through your RunSignup account. Any difference in registration fees will apply.  Instructions on how to transfer.  You might not be able to switch shuttles to the start line if the shuttle is full.

 

Packet Pickup

When and where can I pick up my race bib?

You have several options!

• Saturday, November 7 from 12-7 pm at the Port Austin Welcome Center
• Sunday, November 8 at your race's start line
  • Marathon:  6:00-7:45 am
  • Half Marathon:  6:00-8:15 am
  • 5K:  6:30-8:45 am

 

Race Day Logistics

What time does the race start?

• Marathon:  8:00 am
• Half Marathon:  8:30 am
• 5K:  9:00 am

How do I get to the start line?

Pre-race shuttle information for Marathon and Half Marathon runners can be found here.  There are no post-race shuttles back to Caseville or Sleeper State Park.

Is there a time limit?

• Marathon:  8:00 am - 2:00 pm (6 hours)
• Half Marathon:  8:30 am - 2:00 pm (5.5 hours)
• 5K:  9:00 am - 2:00 pm (5 hours)

Can my family and friends track me during the race?

Yep!  They can track you using the RaceJoy app.  More instructions can be found here.

 

Swag & Awards

What swag do participants receive?

All runners with regular registration will receive:

• A cozy participant crewneck sweatshirt with the Rock CF Thumb Marathon logo
• A custom brass-plated finisher medal with antique finish (3.25” tall, 5mm thick)
• Race-day support, including fully stocked aid stations
• Marathon and Half Marathon pacers
• Chip timing by Trivium Racing
• Post-race food and drinks
• Race photography

Is there Economy Registration?

Yes!  You can skip the sweatshirt and medal and save some cash.

 

Is there additional merchandise I can purchase?

Yes! Additional swag is available for purchase, including a winter hat, buff, t-shirt, and coffee mug. These can be added during registration or through your RunSignup account.

Will there be awards?

Yes. Overall and Age Group awards will be presented in each distance.  More details can be found here.

 
Community & Cause

Who does the race benefit?

proceeds benefit the Rock CF Foundation, a local Michigan organization dedicated to improving the lives of people living with cystic fibrosis.

 
Volunteering

Can I volunteer for the race?

Absolutely! We are looking for course marshals, aid station volunteers, set-up/tear-down crews, and medal distributors. Volunteer perks will be announced closer to race weekend.  You can learn more and register to volunteer here.

Contact

Still have questions?

Email us at cathi@triviumracing.com or visit the official registration page:
https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/PortAustin/TheRockCFThumbCoastMarathonHalfMarathonAndK

The Rock CF Thumb Coast Half Marathon will begin at Sleeper State Park, located off of M25. Runners will begin their journey east in this point-to-point race towards Port Austin, Michigan along the beautiful Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron. The finishing location will be the same as the full marathon, located on Main St in downtown Port Austin.  The course is fully paved. The half marathon course will have a cutoff time of 5.5 hours, due to road closures.

 

Race Start Time: 8:30 AM

Race Starting Location: Sleeper State Park - https://maps.app.goo.gl/X2tJL717bYmBDZP56

Half Marathon Course Map: https://www.strava.com/routes/3441525171830166182

USATF Certification Code:  MI25020MN

All races finish at the Port Austin Welcome Center.  2 W Spring St., Port Austin, MI 48467.

 

The Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon will begin in downtown Caseville, Michigan on Dock Dr.  After a a brief loop around the city center, runners will begin their journey east towards Port Austin, Michigan along the beautiful Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron. Once runners follow a loop of Point Crescent State Park, the race will conclude along Main St. in Port Austin.  The course is fully paved. The full marathon course will have a time limit of 6 hours, due to road closures.  The course is USATF-certified, making it a Boston Qualifier!

 

Race Start Time: 8:00 AM

Race Starting Location: Downtown Caseville, Michigan - https://maps.app.goo.gl/tHRi2V7T25LUDkm7A

Marathon Course Map: https://www.strava.com/routes/3368246681751080544

USATF Certification Code:  MI25028MN

All races finish at the Port Austin Welcome Center.  2 W Spring St., Port Austin, MI 48467.

 

 

Marathon and Half Marathon Pacers will be provided by Beast Pacing. The pacers will help you achieve your race day timing goal.  Beast pacers follow some important pacing rules:  They finish within a minute of their pacing time, and never over.  They do not bank time.  They run with an even effort.

Pacers will be wearing a custom pace shirt and will be carrying pace signs. Find your pace goal sign when lining up for the start and stay with the pacer to meet your time goal.  You do not need to register ahead of time.

2026 pace groups will be updated as we get closer to race weekend.

Should you have any questions about the pacers or would like to become a pacer, email Vanessa Kline at info@beastpacing.com.

 

Start Lines
MARATHON: Caseville Harbor Office 6:00am- 7:45am
HALF MARATHON: Sleeper State Park 6:00am- 8:15am
5K: Port Austin Welcome Center 6:30am- 8:45am

 

All Distances Finish at Port Austin Welcome Center (2 W Spring St., Port Austin, MI 48467)

 

Parking:

If you are choosing to park at either Port Austin State Harbor or Sleeper State Park, these are state parks so to enter the state park you will need a State Recreation Passport (good at all parks all year) upon arrival. This money will be collected at the gate if you do not already have one, but it's cheaper and easier to enter to get it ahead of time!

Marathon

Parking for the Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon is limited, as shuttles from the Port Austin finish line will be the main point of travel to the marathon start line. If parking is necessary and you do not plan to use a shuttle, please utilize the city streets of Caseville that are NOT on the marathon course. You can also park at the Caseville High School, but the lot will close at 7:30am, 30min prior to race start. Vehicles will not be able to leave here until the last runner passes through. There are NOT post-race shuttles back to Caseville.

Link to course map: https://www.strava.com/routes/3368246681751080544

Half Marathon

The main point of travel to the Half Marathon start line at Sleeper State Park are the shuttles from Port Austin (finish line). If parking is necessary and you do not plan to use a shuttle, limited parking is available at Sleeper State Park in the North and South lots along M25. There are NOT post-race shuttles back to Sleeper State Park.

PLEASE NOTE: If you are parking at Sleeper State Park, please be aware that a Michigan State Recreation Passport or purchase of a Day Use Parking pass from the DNR is required. If you do not have a Michigan State Recreation Passport, day passes can be purchased on-site.

Link to course map: https://www.strava.com/routes/3367687172697826164

 

5K Run/Walk

You may utilize any of the public parking along the roads of Downtown Port Austin that are not utilized on course. Please do NOT park on M25 (Spring Rd) or Lake St as this is part of the finish route for all courses.

PLEASE NOTE: If you are parking at Port Austin State Harbor, please be aware that a Michigan Recreation Passport or purchase of a Day Use Parking pass from the DNR is required. If you do not have a Michigan Recreation Passport, day passes can be purchased on-site. 

Link to course map: https://www.strava.com/routes/3408526415637349076

 

The pre-race shuttles will be running from the all-race finish line located in Port Austin, MI and dropping off runners at their respective starting locations of Downtown Caseville for the Marathon and Sleeper State Park for the Half Marathon. Parking for the shuttles will be located near the finish line in Port Austin. Shuttles will cost $5 and can be added onto your registration during the signup process or after signup in your RunSignup account.  You can access your account through your original confirmation email and by following these instructions.

 

We highly recommend that if you decide to not utilize the shuttles, to have a plan ahead of time on how you will return to your vehicle after the race. We will not be offering post-race shuttles back to Caseville or Sleeper State Park.

 

Marathon Shuttle Depart Times - 6:20am & 6:50am

Half Marathon Shuttle Depart Times - 7:15am, 7:30am & 7:45am

 

If you ride the shuttle, you'll pick up your race packet at shuttle check-in at the finish line. We'll give you a gear check bag that will take your race swag (sweatshirt, etc.) back to the finish line for you.  When you finish the race, you'll pick up your gear check bag at the finish line around Lake Huron Circle and State.

Shuttle check in begins 30 minutes before shuttle departure.

The deadline to purchase a spot on a shuttle is October 24, 2026

Rachel, 2025:  “I’ve done a lot of races—from 5Ks to ultramarathons—so I’ve seen the full spectrum of race management. Sunday was my first non-virtual, non-Bayshore marathon, and I was WICKED impressed with how well it was run.

I appreciated all the pre-race communication (especially details like ‘where to find carbs and coffee’—so important!). Race day was run so smoothly—excellent course markings, aid station spacing, and start/finish setups, especially for an inaugural event.

I loved the medal and the sweatshirt instead of a t-shirt. The course design was perfect—those ‘neighborhood/downtown loops’ early rather than late were so appreciated. Please don’t change a thing!

The same-day course photos were incredible, and though I was too wiped out to enjoy all the finish line food, I really appreciated the medical staff who came to check on me.

I look forward to recommending the event to other runners as well as to returning myself.”

 

Marilyn, 2025:  "I was GATORADE girl at the mile 12/25 Aid Station. Huge shout out to the group of participants that finished the race, but went back out to help their friend complete the race. Being part of something like that is what will keep me coming back."

 

Amanda, 2025:  "Great communication, wonderful course, volunteers at the aid stations were top notch...really everything! It was a fabulous inaugural race!"

 

Emily, 2025:  "This was my first half marathon, and I couldn't have asked for a better day. I LOVED the course and experience—absolutely magical with the sunrise and lake views. Everything was also well-run, and the communications leading up to the race were great."

 

Anonymous, 2025:  "The race organization was top notch, and it was a pleasure to run the closed course from Sleeper to Port Austin. The aid stations and finish line snacks were great, and the generous number of porta potties at regular intervals were soooo appreciated."

 

Kristen, 2025:  "Great staff, support, info, affordable shuttle, route, aid stations, and pacers. The finish line food and support was great. The gong was fun and special, I Boston Qualified so I enjoyed hitting it."

 

Anonymous, 2025:  "This was my first half marathon and it exceeded expectations!"

Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K offers a referral refund program. This is a fun & easy way to get your friends, teammates, family, or coworkers to sign up to race with you.  Bonus:  You get a little money back on your registration fee!

Referral Incentives:

Refer 5 people who sign up to race and you get a $20 race registration refund.  This is applicable to Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K registrations.  It is not applicable to Economy and Virtual registrations.  Cannot be applied retroactively.

How Does It Work?

Share your specific referral code link that you were given when you signed up to race (it's in your confirmation email). Once you get those people to register using your code, you will get your registration refund. Start sharing your link today!

You can also locate your personal referral link in your RunSignup account by clicking this link for instructions.

 

The Rock CF Foundation

Founded and led by Emily Schaller, the Rock CF Foundation is dedicated to increasing the quality of life for people with cystic fibrosis. With the help of a core group of volunteers, the Foundation utilizes the arts, entertainment, fashion and fitness to support a variety of programs, scholarships and research initiatives for those with CF.  What began as one woman on a mission to educate her peers has evolved over the course of 16 years into a multi-faceted organization inspiring people living with CF to lead more healthy lifestyles and bringing awareness to an illness that often goes unseen, ensuring it doesn't get forgotten. 

 

The Rock CF Foundation is a community, thousands strong, changing the face of what living with cystic fibrosis looks like and giving those living with CF the tools to not only survive, but thrive. Learn more here: https://letsrockcf.org/

 

Trivium Racing

Trivium Racing is a race hosting and event management company dedicated to bringing you more personal and friendly races that engage participants, spectators, and local economies in new and exciting ways. We believe that athletic events are not only a great way for people to reach their own personal achievements, but also a way for communities – big or small – to interact and celebrate together. We strive to provide excellent quality races at competitive prices with our main focus being YOU!

We produce road, trail, and multisport races in Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.  Visit www.triviumracing.com for a full list of events!

Pre-Race Meetings

 

Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon - Pre-Race Information Meeting: https://youtu.be/gj8wmwU2sDs

 

Early Packet Pick Up

• Saturday November 7: Port Austin Welcome Center (2 W Spring St. Port Austin, MI 48467)
  • 12:00pm-7:00pm

Race Day Packet Pick Up and On-Site Registration

• • TBD

Race Day Schedule

• Marathon Start: 8:00am
• Half Marathon Start: 8:30am
• 5K Start: 9:00am
• Course Cutoff: 2:00pm

All races finish at the Port Austin Welcome Center (2 W Spring St., Port Austin, MI 48467)

 

Regular Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon Registration Includes*:

 

 

 

 

Custom Thumb Coast Marathon Crewneck (2026 Designs coming soon!)

(Deadline to guarantee sweatshirt size is October 10, 2025)

Finisher Medal

Race photography

Use of on-course aid stations

Post race food and drinks

Chip timing by Trivium Racing

*Subject to changes, more images of swag to come

 

Economy Registration Includes:

Skip the swag; save some cash!

Custom Thumb Coast Marathon Crewneck

Finisher Medal

Race photography

Use of on-course aid stations

Post race food and drinks

Chip timing by Trivium Racing

 

Virtual Registration Includes:

Custom Thumb Coast Marathon Crewneck

Finisher Medal

Packets will be mailed within 10 days after race day. Additional shipping fee will be charged for international shipping.

2026: Locations coming soon!

 

In the meantime.. check out what was available in 2025

Caseville and Port Austin are seasonal towns, so we've compiled a list of restaurants and coffee shops that will be open race weekend.

 

Caseville

Dufty’s Blue Water Inn - 989-856-3400 - Open Sat 11-9, Sun 12-9

Thumb Brewery - 989-553-6758 - Open Saturday 11:30-8 pm, Sun 11:30-2:30 pm. Free N/A drink or beer to volunteers!

Lemon Tree Marketplace - 602-620-9634 - Open Saturday 8-5 and Sunday 8-3.  Excellent coffee and other drink options and some delicious pastries, clothing, books, puzzles, Michigan foods, and many gift items.

Village Western Co. & Shore Winds Gifts - Open Saturday 10-5 and Sunday 11-3 - Boutique shopping, decor, unique vintage and new treasures

 

Port Austin

Bird Creek Farms - 989-553-6444 - Friday 2-9, Saturday 11-9, Sunday 11-8 - Registrations encouraged

The Green Clean Bean - 989-738-0112 - Espresso Bar - open 7-5

IGA - 989-738-5136 - Serves food at the deli

Lake Street Emporium - 989-738-8412 - Right by the 5K start/common finish line.  Breakfast & Lunch Diner, Ice Cream, Souvenir and Gift Shop - Open Fri.-Sat. 8-2 and Sun. 8-2 or later if they're busy

Simms at The Garfield - 989-738-0019

• Sat 9:00am-8pm, Sun 9-2:30pm
• BRUNCH:  Sat 9:00am-12pm, Sun 9am-2:30pm
• Bar:  THUR until 9pm, FRI & SAT 10pm, SUN 3pm

The Bank 1884 - 989-738-5353 - Open through Sat, Not open Sun.

The Farm Restaurant - 989-874-5700 - Confirmed they'll be open, but didn't confirm hours

The Wash - 989-325-9274 - We serve cold drinks, sandwiches, paninis, soup, & convenience items - Open Fri-Sat 11-10 (possibly later)

Fireside Inn - 989-738-8232 - Open Friday-Saturday, 4-8 pm

Walt's Meat Market - 989-738-7020 - Grilled paninis and a wide selection cold drinks

 

Kinde

10 minutes from Port Austin

The Pasta House

 

Grind Stone City

9 minutes from Port Austin

Days on the Lake - 989-738-7665 - Open Thursday 11-7, Friday 11-8, Saturday 8-8 w/ Breakfast 8-11, Sunday 8-7 w/ Breakfast 8-11, & Monday 11-7

Shelley’s Bar and Grill - 989-738-5105 - Open Friday-Sun 11-9

5K: Crewneck

Virtual 5k: Crewneck

Virtual Half Marathon: Crewneck

Half Marathon: Crewneck

Marathon: Crewneck

Virtual Marathon: Crewneck