14 Hours at the World’s Toughest Spectator Race
Grayling, Michigan, is a small dot on some maps. The quaint tourist town is best known for its fly-fishing history and for being the epicenter of "up north" in the Midwest. Its other claim to faim: hosting a popular event that claims to be "the world's toughest spectator race."
The Au Sable River Canoe Marathon wrapped its 69th running the weekend of July 30. At 120 miles, it is the longest nonstop canoe marathon in the United States. Approximately 100 teams compete in the 14-plus-hour challenge, which starts at 9 p.m. Only masochists need apply.
This year, photographer Erik Olsen found himself in the muck with spectators as the group followed the racers downriver through a hot and humid night on the Au Sable River.
Photo: After an all-night canoe watch, spectators sleep whenever and wherever.
People arrive hours before the start to grab their favorite spot and watch the mad dash to the water.
The essentials of survival. The official spectator packing list includes a music player, lawn chairs, binoculars, insect repellent, soap, towel, toothbrush, toilet paper, pillows, alarm clock, rain gear, food, flashlight, and a portable scanner that can tune in to live updates of team times throughout the race.
Teams wear their pride on shirts that show off their team names. Pictured are Jacob Roetter and Alex Lulias of boat number 44.
The marathon-style start happens in downtown Grayling. All the competitors carry their boats in a mad dash to the water.
A building mural depicts the race’s course map. Grayling residents truly love this event and their river.
Last-minute preparations at the starting line in downtown Grayling.
Fans cheer on the start of the Au Sable River Canoe Marathon as racers dash into the river.
The lodges and resorts dotting the river host spectators eager to catch a glimpse of their favorite teams.
Feeders mingle with spectators as rain begins to fall on the river. Feeders deliver nutrition to teams as they pass by.