A backyard ultra is a deviously simple race. Runners just have to complete a 4.1667-mile course within a one-hour cutoff. And then do that again at the end of that hour. And again the next. And again. There’s no limit on how long the race might be, (neither time nor distance). The race continues as long as there are multiple runners still on the course. The only way to finish the race is to complete the course when no other runner can.
There can be at most one finisher (and winner), while every other entrant is a DNF (did not finish).
The fastest runner won’t necessarily win this race. And mental strength is every bit as important as physical strength. How long can you keep moving? If you fight hard enough to earn a DNF at a backyard ultra then you may have truly found your limit. If you win, you might still be wondering.
The race will start precisely at 7:00 AM on April 23, 2020 with all runners present attempting to complete a 4.1667-mile course before 8:00 AM. Then at 8:00 AM, another loop will be started. This will continue until there is a loop where only a single runner is able to complete the loop within the time limit, (or, perhaps until there’s a loop with no finisher).
Given this format, it’s hard to predict when the race will end. Runners should come fully prepared to run through the night, (bring reflective clothing, headlamps, and extra batteries).
The race uses a lovely system of trails at Champoeg State Park. The first loop follows a single-track trail through trees and alongside the Willamette river with scenic views. The final quarter of this course is on a paved bike path. This is an out-and-back course that turns around at the 2.0833-mile point.
This same trail course will be used for the first 12 hourse of the race. At 7:00 PM the race will switch to the night course which is entirely paved, (both bike path and a road that is closed to vehicles at night). The race will switch back to the trail course at 7:00 AM the next morning and continue switching back and forth between these two courses every 12 hours until the race is complete.
A portion of the proceeds from the race will be donated to Clackamas County Search and Rescue, a local all-volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to providing Search and Rescue assistance for people who are lost or injured out of doors.