Know what race day asks

Park City, Utah

Race Information

Arrival times, the course, the rules, and how the crew area works.

Race day:

Race day basics

The short version for first-timers, returning runners, and anyone flying in.

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.

The backyard ultra format

Every runner starts the same 4.167-mile lap at the top of every hour. Your rest is whatever is left when you finish, 24 laps make 100 miles, and the race ends when one runner completes a lap nobody else does.

Full explanation of the backyard ultra format

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.
  • We hand out prizes at milestone laps during the race.
  • The final finisher is the last runner able to complete a lap alone.

Race day timing

Check-in opens at 4:30 PM. The first whistle is at 6:00 PM sharp.

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.

Route and location

Study the route before race day, while you are rested.

Start and finish: Gillmor Way, Park City, UT

The loop moves through gravel, greenway, and single-track in Round Valley.

Lap timing and pacing

Small pacing, fueling, and transition mistakes add up from the early laps.

  • A fast lap is only worth the rest it buys you.
  • 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.
  • Pack and plan for the race running hours longer than you hoped.

The format can turn quickly once fatigue sets in. Train for repeated starts, uneven footing, and good decisions late in the race.

Aid station and crew setup

What is waiting for you at the start-finish area between laps.

  • Water and electrolyte drinks at the start-finish area.
  • Gels, bars, and real food for quick refueling.
  • Medical support on site.
  • A crew space for your own supplies and between-lap help.
  • Seating and cover from the weather next to the start line.

Ask before race day

Send a question now rather than working it out at the start line.

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