Race Overview
The C and O Canal 100 mile endurance run is a flat, fast 100-mile ultra along the historic C&O Canal towpath, based at Camp Manidokan near Knoxville, MD. First held in 2014, the race features minimal elevation gain, riverside views, and excellent support. Great for both 100-mile first-timers and veteran PRs. Western States qualifier.
What makes the C&O Canal 100 mile endurance run unique among 100-mile races is its accessible flat terrain combined with exceptional organization and support. The historic C&O Canal towpath provides a 100% non-technical dirt surface that follows the Potomac River through scenic Maryland countryside, offering runners beautiful riverside views and a fast, runnable course from start to finish.
The race attracts both first-time 100-mile runners seeking an achievable goal and veteran ultrarunners pursuing personal records on one of the fastest 100-mile courses available. The April timing provides ideal spring weather conditions, while the excellent aid station support and crew access make this an ideal introduction to the 100-mile distance for newer ultrarunners.
How to Qualify & Enter
Registration via ultrasignup.com, typically opens November, field ~200-250. No formal qualifier, 18+ age. Early sellout likely.
Application Process:
Applications open annually in November through UltraSignup.com with registration typically filling within hours to days due to the race’s popularity and limited field size. Unlike many challenging 100-mile races, the C&O Canal 100 requires no qualifying standards or previous ultramarathon experience, making it accessible to runners attempting their first 100-mile distance.
Entry Requirements:
• Minimum age 18 years
• No qualifying races required
• Registration fee approximately $200-250
• Early registration strongly recommended
• Wait-list available after sellout
The race’s reputation for excellent organization, fast course conditions, and high finish rates makes it one of the most sought-after 100-mile entries in the country. First-time 100-mile runners particularly value the supportive atmosphere and comprehensive aid station coverage that helps ensure a successful first ultra experience.
Course Layout
One ~38.4mi loop (with out-back to North Turnaround) followed by two ~30.8mi loops, all along C&O towpath, Antietam to Brunswick. 100% non-technical dirt canal path. 30-hour strict cutoff, April event, 7:00am start. Pacers from mile 59.6.
Field Size
• Total Field: 200-250 runners maximum
• Finish Rate: 85-95% (among highest in ultrarunning)
• Time Cutoff: 30 hours
• Average Finishing Time: 22-26 hours
• Sub-24 Hour Finishers: 40-60% annually
Rules
Crew & Pacers: Crew access only at Manidokan and Brunswick (parking rules, MARC lot). Pacers allowed from mile 59.6. Mandatory Gear: Headlamp for night running, emergency whistle. Aid Station Check-ins: Must check in at each aid, notify if dropping. General: No littering, bib visible, no ‘muling.’ Medical drops as needed.
Aid Stations
• Total: 7 staffed per loop (Manidokan, Dargan Bend, Antietam, North Turnaround, Keep Tryst, Brunswick)
• Spacing: 3-7mi between stations
• Supplies: Full food, drink, soup at night
• Drop Bags: Allowed at Manidokan and Brunswick
• Medical: Available at all major stations
Recent Winners
Men’s Champions: 2025: Oleksandr Skorokhod – 15:36:09, 2023: Mitch Ables. Women’s Champions: 2025: Whitney Richman – 17:28:59
Official Website & Contact Info
• Website: www.cocanal100.com
• Race Director: Mark Cucuzzella (through cocanal100.com contact)
• Registration: Through UltraSignup.com
• Social Media: Check race website for current links
• Awards: Buckle for sub-30h, custom for sub-24h; all finishers recognized