Registration opens for Portage County’s first ultra marathon

By Patrick Lynn

STEVENS POINT – Registration is now open for The Dormie, which organizers say will be the first ultra marathon held in Portage County.

The race will take place on a 1.01-square-mile loop at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point campus and is organized by Steps and Strides, Inc., the nonprofit behind Walk Wisconsin and the Wonderful Water Run. Proceeds will support the UW-Stevens Point Cross Country Team, helping fund travel, training, and development opportunities for student-athletes.

Only 125 spots are available for the inaugural run.

“The Dormie will give runners a chance to test their endurance right here in Stevens Point while supporting local student-athletes,” said Thomas Bambach, head coach of the UWSP cross country team.

Tim Krause, a UWSP professor, runner, and planning committee member, said the event is intended to highlight community connections as much as distance running.

“The Dormie is about more than miles — it’s about community. This event brings people together around endurance, connection, and giving back to the athletes who represent our university,” Krause said.

Registration opens Oct. 31. The race is scheduled for May 30, 2026.

More information is available at www.runthedormie.com.