1. Race Overview
The Javelina Jundred stands as Arizona’s flagship 100-mile ultramarathon and one of America’s premier desert endurance events. Established in 1998 by Jamil Coury and his team at Aravaipa Running, this extraordinary race has evolved into a cornerstone of the ultrarunning calendar, consistently drawing elite competitors and ambitious first-timers from across the globe.
Set against the stunning backdrop of McDowell Mountain Regional Park near Fountain Hills, Arizona, the Javelina Jundred showcases the raw beauty and unique challenges of the Sonoran Desert. The race takes its name from the collared peccary (javelina), a pig-like desert animal native to the region, reflecting the wild spirit that defines this iconic event.
What makes Javelina Jundred 100 mile endurance run truly special is its accessible yet challenging 15.38-mile loop format, requiring runners to complete 6.5 loops to reach the 100-mile distance. This multi-loop design offers several advantages: comprehensive crew and spectator access, predictable aid station locations, and the psychological benefit of breaking the massive 100-mile distance into manageable segments. The desert terrain features gentle rolling hills with approximately 8,800 feet of total elevation gain spread across the full distance, making it one of the most runnable 100-mile courses in America.
The race timing in late October to early November provides ideal desert running conditions, with comfortable daytime temperatures typically ranging from the 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, cooling to the 50s overnight. This weather window represents the sweet spot in the Sonoran Desert calendar, avoiding both the scorching summer heat and the occasional winter storms.
Javelina has earned distinction as a frequent host of the USATF 100-Mile Trail National Championships, cementing its reputation as a legitimate fast course where personal records are regularly shattered. The combination of favorable weather, runnable terrain, and exceptional organization has made Javelina the “Boston Qualifier equivalent” for ultrarunners seeking to achieve time-based goals like Western States lottery qualifiers or simply their first sub-24-hour finish.
The race embodies the modern evolution of ultrarunning, balancing serious athletic competition with the inclusive, festival-like atmosphere that makes the sport so compelling. From elite athletes chasing American records to first-time 100-mile participants pursuing their ultimate running dream, Javelina welcomes all with equal enthusiasm and support.
2. How to Qualify & Enter
Unlike many premier 100-mile races that require qualifying times or lottery systems, the Javelina Jundred maintains a more accessible entry process, though demand remains exceptionally high due to the race’s reputation and desirable timing.
**Entry Process:**
Registration opens annually on the first Monday in February at 10:00 AM MST through UltraSignup.com. The race typically sells out within minutes, making it essential to be online and ready exactly at the opening time. Javelina operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no lottery or qualifying standards required.
**Registration Requirements:**
• Runners must be 21 years of age on race day (Arizona law requirement for the venue)
• No minimum qualifying time required, though ultramarathon experience is strongly recommended
• Valid UltraSignup account with payment method ready
• Completion of mandatory online waiver and emergency contact information
**Entry Fees (2024):**
• Early Registration: $225 (first 30 days)
• Regular Registration: $250 (if spots remain available)
• Race day registration: Not available
**Waitlist System:**
Javelina maintains an active waitlist that opens immediately after the race sells out. Waitlist registrants pay the full entry fee upfront and receive automatic refunds if not selected. Historical data shows approximately 20-30% of waitlisted runners eventually gain entry through cancellations.
**UltraSignup Integration:**
The race utilizes UltraSignup’s comprehensive platform for:
• Registration and payment processing
• Communication with participants
• Results tracking and timing
• Automatic qualification tracking for other events
• Post-race results and statistics
**International Participants:**
International runners are welcome but must ensure proper travel documentation and understand that no special accommodations are made for travel delays. All communication and race materials are provided in English only.
**Registration Strategy Tips:**
• Create UltraSignup account well in advance
• Verify payment information before registration opens
• Have multiple devices/browsers ready
• Consider waitlist as viable backup option
• Follow Aravaipa Running social media for updates and announcements
3. Course Layout
4. Field Size
5. Rules
6. Aid Stations
7. Winners
8. Official Website & Contact Info
**COURSE LAYOUT:**
The Javelina Jundred features a 15.38-mile clockwise loop course through McDowell Mountain Regional Park’s desert terrain. Runners complete 6.5 loops for the full 100-mile distance. The course includes approximately 1,350 feet of elevation gain per loop (8,800 feet total) with rolling desert hills, wash crossings, and single-track sections through saguaro forests. The multi-loop design provides excellent spectator and crew access at the main aid station. Trail surfaces vary from packed dirt to sandy washes and rocky sections.
**FIELD SIZE:**
The race accommodates approximately 1,500 runners annually, making it one of the larger 100-mile ultramarathons in the United States. Typical finish rates range from 75-85%, significantly higher than most 100-mile events due to the favorable conditions and runnable course. The race attracts runners from all 50 states and over 20 countries, with roughly 40% first-time 100-mile participants and 60% experienced ultrarunners.
**RULES:**
• Mandatory gear: headlamp, backup light source, whistle
• Pacers allowed after mile 62 (start of loop 5)
• Crew access permitted at main aid station and designated road crossings
• 30-hour time limit with intermediate cutoffs at each loop
• USATF drug testing may be conducted
• No pets, headphones, or unauthorized assistance
• All runners must check in/out at aid stations
**AID STATIONS:**
The race features 6 fully-stocked aid stations per loop (39 total aid station experiences). The main Jeadquarters aid station offers hot food, medical support, and full crew access. Remote aid stations provide water, electrolytes, gels, fruit, and basic medical supplies. Aid stations are staffed by experienced volunteers and positioned approximately every 2-4 miles throughout the course.
**WINNERS (Last 5 Years):**
**Male Champions:**
• 2023: Hayden Hawks – 13:09:47
• 2022: Tim Tollefson – 13:16:22
• 2021: Zach Miller – 12:56:33
• 2020: Ryan Montgomery – 13:45:12
• 2019: Mario Fraioli – 13:29:08
**Female Champions:**
• 2023: Courtney Dauwalter – 14:52:47
• 2022: Camille Herron – 13:25:43 (Course Record)
• 2021: Clare Gallagher – 15:18:37
• 2020: Devon Yanko – 15:44:29
• 2019: Stephanie Howe – 16:02:14
**OFFICIAL WEBSITE & CONTACT INFO:**
**Website:** www.aravaiparunning.com/javelina-jundred
**Registration:** www.ultrasignup.com
**Email:** info@aravaiparunning.com
**Phone:** (480) 994-6038
**Race Director:** Jamil Coury
**Social Media:**
• Instagram: @aravaiparunning
• Facebook: Aravaipa Running
• Twitter: @AravaipaRunning
**Mailing Address:**
Aravaipa Running
PO Box 7293
Phoenix, AZ 85011