Race Information

Everything important for runners and crews should be here: when to show up, what the course asks of you, and what to expect once the laps start stacking up.

Race day: Friday, October 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM Mountain Time

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Overview

Race day basics

If you are traveling in, crewing for someone, or getting ready for your first backyard, start here.

Distance

4.167 miles on the hour, every hour, until one runner is left standing.

Course feel

Mixed terrain, changing light, and enough trail to punish bad pacing.

Crew support

You will have access to your crew and gear between laps, but not much time to waste.

Format

The backyard ultra format

A backyard ultra is not about one big move. It is about how many times you can calmly do your job and come back ready for the next whistle.

Each lap is 4.167 miles, which adds up to 100 miles in 24 laps.
All runners begin each new lap together at the top of the hour.
Your recovery time is whatever remains after you finish the previous lap.
The event ends only when one runner finishes a lap that no other runner completes.

Rules

What gets you to the next lap

The rules are simple. Following them late in the race is the hard part.

Complete each loop in under 60 minutes.
Be present at the start line at the beginning of every new hour.
Missing a start or failing to finish a lap in time results in a DNF.
Prize laps and milestone recognition may be awarded during the event.
The final finisher is the last runner able to complete a lap alone.

Schedule

Race day timing

Here is the timing you need for race day.

Check-in

4:30 PM to 5:30 PM

Briefing

5:30 PM to 5:45 PM

First whistle

6:00 PM sharp. Sunset is at 6:35 PM.

Finish

When only one runner can still answer the bell.

Course

Route and location

Look at the route before you arrive. The runners who handle this format best usually know what they are getting into.

Start and finish: Gillmor Way, Park City, UT

The loop moves through gravel, greenway, and single-track in Round Valley. Study it now so you are not learning the whole course under fatigue.

Open the route on Strava

Strategy

Lap timing and pacing

Most runners do not get knocked out by one big mistake. They get knocked out by a bunch of small ones that start early.

Finishing faster only matters if it improves recovery and keeps your next lap calm.
Night running changes how technical sections feel, so treat early laps as preparation for later ones.
Use your rest window for fueling, layers, and crew communication before sitting down too long.
Do not build your day around one number. Build it around being ready if the race goes longer than you hoped.

Important: this format looks controlled right up until it is not. Train for repeated starts, uneven footing, and making good decisions when you are tired.

Support

Aid station and crew setup

Here is what you can count on between laps.

Water and electrolyte drinks available at the start-finish area.
Energy gels, bars, and real food options for quick refueling.
Medical support available on site.
Dedicated crew space for personal supplies and between-lap support.
Rest seating and covered support areas available near the main hub.

Need help

Ask before race day

If you are unsure about gear, timing, crew support, or the course, ask before race day.

Best questions for this form

Runners Course questions, logistics, timing, and gear guidance

Crews Access, support setup, and what to expect between laps

Volunteers Ways to help before, during, and after the event