¶ The Rise of Backyard Ultras
Over the past few years especially , we've heard more and more about backyard altars , but why have they become such a phenomenon in the ultra-running world and what makes them such a captivating challenge for runners at all levels ?
Why on earth would people do one of these seemingly endless events You're listening to Choose to Endure the show dedicated to the back of the pack runners , where we share uplifting stories , interviews , gear and training tips specific to the tail-end heroes of the ultra-universe . My name is Richard Gleave . I've been running ultras now since 2017 .
I have taken on unfinished numerous distances , all the way up through now 220 miles , and I'm unashamedly a member of the back of the pack , just like you are .
If you've never heard of backyard ultras , or you need a refresher , or you're really just fascinated by what goes into these totally unique running events , then sit back , hold tight and take a listen , because this is my hot take .
The backyard ultra , an innovative concept in the ultra-running world , was actually pioneered by the one and only Gary Lazarus Leake Cantrell . He renowned for the Barclay Marathons . This novel race format debuted with Biggs Backyard Ultra in Tennessee . This was held in Cantrell's backyard actually , hence the name in 2011 .
It's designed to test not just the physical limits , but also , and really more so , the endurance and willpower of participants . So in these events , runners face a unique challenge . You've got to complete a 4.167 mile or 6.7 kilometer loop within an hour .
This distance is meticulously chosen so that , with 24 hour loops , that amounts exactly to 100 miles , the standard ultra marathon distance over 24 hours . However , and this is the kicker unlike traditional races , a backyard ultra could extend and go on indefinitely .
It's just governed by each participant's stamina because the race operates on a last person standing principle , starting a new loop every hour on the hour . This format continues relentlessly until only one runner remains capable of finishing a loop in the set time , blending physical endurance with mental tenacity .
And if no runners can finish the last loop , there's no winner declared , which is incredibly unique . During the remaining time , within each hour after completing a loop , runners have the opportunity for rest , refueling and recovery .
They must , however , be ready at the start line to begin the cycle again at the top of the next hour , and this leads to a really demanding rhythm of kind of run rest , repeat that tests , runners , limits and strategic planning .
Backyard ultras really started as a niche event within the ultra running community , but their unique format has captured the imagination of runners now worldwide . There's a world championships out there these days for these types of events . The original concept by Lazarus Lake has sparked a movement leading to backyard ultras popping up globally .
One of the key factors in the growing popularity of backyard ultras is their inclusivity . These events really level the playing field , where the traditional speed of a runner takes a backseat to mental toughness and endurance , which I think is incredibly different and very challenging .
They attract a broad spectrum of participants , from elite ultra runners all the way to the likes of you and I , looking to test their limits or maybe try a new distance in a new and unique way . The format of backyard ultras fosters a really strong sense of community too .
Runners often share the course with the same people hour after hour , leading to deep connections in camaraderie . The social aspect , combined with the shared challenge , creates a hugely compelling draw for many runners . The rise of social media and coverage in running publications has really brought backyard altars into the spotlight .
Documentaries and articles about these races highlight their brutal challenge and the compelling human stories they also generate , further increasing their appeal . The mental challenge of backyards , with no predetermined finish line , taps into a deeper psychological drive .
For many runners , it's a battle against yourself as much , if not more so , than it is against the course or even other competitors , and that really appeals to those who are seeking to explore their own mental and physical limits .
The format of the race has proved adaptable during times when traditional races face cancellations or restrictions due to global events like the COVID-19 pandemic . Virtual backyards have allowed runners to participate from their own locales while still feeling connected to this global community that has evolved Along with evolving community .
The concept has evolved too , with variations of the format appearing to keep it fresh and keep it challenging . Some races introduce additional elements like surprise obstacles or maybe varying the loop route , so it will keep runners on their toes , and the thing I really like is that these events are democratizing ultra-running .
They appeal to such a wide range of runners , including those who may not be the fastest , may never be the fastest , but possess extraordinary endurance and mental strength . Think about Harvey Lewis , who is , if not the top , one of the top backyard ultra-runners Not the fastest , but incredible mental strength .
I love the challenge that an infinite race puts in front of me , and it looks like a lot of others do too , I think , in a world full of convenience and ease , looking for hard things like this really appeals to people . It isn't easy , and there's so much that we can all learn from that .
So what are some of the specific challenges backyard ultras present , and what are some strategies that successful participants might use ? Well , one of the most daunting aspects of backyards is definitely the psychological challenge of these endless loops .
As a runner , you don't know when the race will end when you begin it , and that can be mentally exhausting and requires immense psychological resilience .
Pacing strategy comes into play too , so , unlike traditional races , where pacing is often planned around known distances , backyard ultras require a pacing strategy that really tries to balance speed with the need to conserve energy and tackle ongoing needs of each runner , potentially for dozens of hours .
Runners also need to efficiently manage their time within each hour to allow for , yes , the running , but also recovery , nutrition and sometimes even brief sleep , which demands fantastic logistical planning and a lot of training .
And maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration also becomes increasingly complex as the hours and the loops , also known as yards , start to pass by . Riders must ingest enough calories and fluids to sustain energy levels without causing GI distress .
The longer you go , the more challenging that's going to get for you , especially when you know that there isn't really a finish line or finish time or a finished distance .
Strategies participants seem to use vary a little bit , but some common ones focus on or around finding a pace that can be maintained hour after hour , and that often means running slower than you might do in a conventional ultra , so that you can conserve energy . Strategies also look to maximize the rest period between loops , which is essential .
This includes refueling , addressing any medical needs you might have , such as blisters , changing clothes if necessary , and even figuring out a way to power nap enough to where you're not
¶ The Rise of Backyard Ultras
crashing . There are some psychological tactics too . Developing mental coping strategies , such as breaking the race down into manageable segments , focusing on one loop at a time and finding a way to instill some positive self-talk , can really help manage the mental fatigue .
You've also got to be prepared to adapt your strategy in response to changing physical and mental states , maybe the weather conditions and the dynamics of the race . That's going to be really key to enduring the varying stages of a backyard ultra . There is a team aspect to this too .
Although runners have to complete the loop solo , having a support team to manage your logistics while you're out on the course , giving them orders in advance , giving them instructions of what you're going to need next time you come back around .
That can be a significant advantage if they're able to offer moral support and keep a track of nutrition for you , making sure you've got the right gear , especially if you've got challenging weather conditions . Making sure it's prepared and accessible can make a substantial difference in maintaining comfort and performance .
And then including back-to-back long runs in training . From a strategy standpoint , practicing night running and simulating somehow the racer's hourly loop structure in advance can really help you prepare both body and mind for the unique demands of backyard ultras .
So these races , as I mentioned , have fostered a unique cultural phenomenon within the ultra-running community , and it's fascinating . It blends this intense individual competition with a strong sense of support and camaraderie .
The runners often find themselves competing alongside each other for hours and hours , which , as I mentioned , leads to deep-rooted connections and mutual respect , yet cheering each other on in shared struggles and triumphs .
The repetitive nature of the course , with runners starting together at the top of each hour , creates this shared experience that's rare in other race formats , and it's this communal aspect that fosters a supportive environment where runners cheer each other on . They share tips and stories . They even help each other through tough moments .
The rise of backyard ultras represents really a cultural shift towards valuing mental fortitude as much as physical endurance , and this , I think , resonates with a much broader segment of our running community who appreciate the mental challenge and strategic aspect of endurance .
Sports Social media has played a significant role in shaping this community and culture as well , and runners share their experiences , their strategies and these personal stories of success online , creating a narrative that's accessible and inspiring to really a global audience . This digital connectivity has helped in forming a widespread and engaged community .
Backyards inherently promote inclusivity and equality . Every runner , regardless of who you are or where you come from , every runner starts each loop together , regardless of their previous achievements or pace or anything else . This level playing field is really the cornerstone of the backyard ultra culture , emphasizing effort and endurance over elite performance and speed .
Many backyard ultras cultivate a festival atmosphere too , with aid stations , crew areas and spectator spots turning into mini celebrations of the ultra running spirit . This festival-like environment contributes to the overall experience , making these events more than just the running .
The format pushing runners to their limits naturally generates compelling stories of human endeavor , resilience and sometimes transformation . These narratives enrich the culture of the sport , highlighting the personal growth and journey inherent in ultra running . As backyards grow in popularity , they kind of begin to develop their own legacy and their own traditions .
Iconic racers like Biggs Backyard Ultra really have set the standard and expectations , contributing to the lore and mystique of this particular format . The community aspect extends beyond the runners to the volunteers and the spectators , who really become an integral part of the event .
Their support and involvement further enhances the communal experience , creating this collective endeavor where everyone has a role in a racer's unfolding story , whether you're in it or whether you're watching it , or whether you are running it .
With the race being in a fixed location , usually a loop , it's also much easier , for instance , to set up a camera and stream the event online as a race director , making it accessible to and watchable by , again , a huge global audience at any time . So logistically , these races are much easier to put on comparatively .
So these types of races are influencing the broader ultra-running scene too , including how traditional races might be incorporating elements of this particular format . The rise of backyard ultras reflects broader trends in endurance sports , such as increasing interest in personal limits and the blending really of this adventure and competition , the journey-style event .
But ultras challenge and expand the concept of endurance , emphasizing mental toughness as much , if not more so , than physical stamina , and this has encouraged ultra-runners to think differently about their own limits , about their training , and to examine some totally different race strategies .
The unique format of backyards has influenced other ultra-running events to consider variations in their own race structures , introducing elements that challenge the traditional distance-based formats .
Runners are adapting their training regimes to prepare for the unpredictability and mental demands of backyards , incorporating more flexibility and mental endurance training in addition to the physical speed and strength training that they probably have been doing anyway .
The popularity of this style of racing has contributed to the growth of the ultra-running community , attracting participants from diverse backgrounds and skill levels . The inclusivity aspect that we talked about has helped really globalize the sport it's so easy to put on a race and anyone can do it .
Events are now held worldwide , fostering a broader , more connected ultra-running network . That ultras have brought mental resilience to the forefront of ultra-running discussions . They've highlighted the psychological aspect of endurance running , inspiring research workshops and content focused on mental training and well-being much more than there was previously .
By focusing on time spent running rather than distance covered . Backyard ultras have , as I said before , democratized the field , allowing runners who may not be the fastest to excel based on endurance and strategy .
And this shift has really broadened the appeal of ultra running , emphasizing that success in sport is not solely determined by speed , which I think speaks to many people out there .
The logistical model of backyard ultras , with the loop course and continuous format , has inspired innovation and event management , including how aid stations , crew support and race monitoring are handled . These innovations benefit the broader ultra running event landscape in terms of efficiency and overall runner experience .
The format , particularly with the central loop start finish area , has enhanced spectator engagement too , making it easier for friends , family and fans to be a big part of the experience . This accessibility increases the visibility to sport again and enhances that event atmosphere .
Backyards have contributed to this cultural shift within the ultra running community , doing the persistence , community support and personal challenge over traditional competitive metrics . This has fostered a culture that celebrates every participant's journey and their story , enhancing the transformative aspect of ultra running and its accessibility by a wider participant base .
The growing interest in backyards has no doubt stimulated the ultra running economy too , with increased demand for specialized gear , specialized coaching and an uptick in overall race entries . This economic impact benefits the broader running industry , from local businesses to international brands .
The rise of backyards has significantly impacted the ultra running world , having influenced everything from individual runner psychology to global community dynamics and industry economics . It's that big . It's redefined what it means to endure and excel in the sport , embedding itself as a pivotal and beloved part of the overall ultra running narrative .
So as we've journeyed through this totally unique world of backyard ultras , we've uncovered the rich tapestry that these events weave within the ultra running community , from their grassroots beginnings to their rise as a global phenomenon . Backyard ultras really have redefined the boundaries .
They've sparked a cultural shift , emphasizing that intrinsic value of personal challenge and communal support over the conventional metrics of running in speed and distance that ultras , for me , stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of the ultra runner relentless , resilient and forever adaptable . These events are more than just races .
In my mind , they're really gatherings that celebrate the shared experience of pushing beyond known limits , fostering a deep sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among participants .
The impact of backyards extends beyond the individual runner to influencing race formats , influencing training methodologies and even , as we said , arguably the economic landscape of ultra running itself . These races invite us to explore the depths of our mental fortitude , while providing a platform for growth , self-discovery and connection with others .
So , as we conclude this short exploration , I encourage you , whether you're an experienced ultra runner or someone curious about testing your own limits , to consider the challenge of a backyard ultra .
¶ Discover Backyard Ultras
These events offer a unique opportunity to engage with the ultra running community , to share in the collective endeavor of endurance and to write your own story of perseverance and resilience . If you're feeling inspired or simply curious , why not take a moment to visit ultra sign up dot com and do a search for the nearest backyard ultra to you ? Who knows ?
The next loop , the next yard could be the start of an unforgettable journey for you , one that challenges you , one that transforms you and connects you with the enduring spirit of the ultra running community . And what I love best is that these races are totally accessible to everyone , regardless of your perceived running ability or running speed .
You may tap into some mental strength you never knew you had , and you might actually have a decent shot at winning , no matter how fast you think you are or aren't . Well , thanks for listening . I've been your host , richard Gleeve . I'm really here just throwing some thoughts down on paper as I reviewed some backyard ultras I was looking at .
Hopefully you found something of value and , if so , I would encourage you to spend a few moments to rate , or especially review , the show and maybe introduce one of your ultra friends to it as well . I would thank you in advance if that's something you choose to do .
So thanks for joining me on this deep dive into the world of backyard ultras , and perhaps I'll see you at the start line of a backyard ultra very soon . Keep running , keep exploring and , as always , choose to endure .