We take a massive amount of pride in organizing events that are more than just a race. Within the Legends Trails family, our races turn into epic achievements, and—especially in a Backyard Ultra—they almost always end in bitter defeat. After all, there can be only one Last Person Standing.
The objective of Backyard Belgium is to push you much further than you ever thought possible. We offer one of the toughest mental and physical challenges you can find in Belgium, and we will continue to do so.
However, we also absolutely love it when our participants shatter their own ceilings, push through their darkest moments, and rack up loop after loop. That is why we bring the renowned Legends quality to our basecamp.
There is great food and an incredible atmosphere, and you get to come back to our “Legends Basecamp” every single hour. We provide a top-notch, lightning-fast 6.706km loop, a vibrant starting corral, a continuous supply of great hot and cold food, all supported by the absolute best volunteers in the world who will take care of you day and night.
So basically, all you have to worry about is… answering the bell and RUNNING just one more lap. The rest is up to us.
Fees (excluding handling fees):
Registration Dates:
Important Notes:
Race Basecamp:
The race Basecamp is located at Building De Waterval, Domein Beverdonk at Beverdonk 1, 2470 Retie, Belgium
Registration:
Registration at Basecamp “De Waterval” is mandatory for all participants. This is possible from 7am on raceday.
Setting up shop
You can set up your gear starting at 6pm on Friday April 23rd . If you choose a 3×3, your equipment can only take up half of the tent.
Friday
Saturday
We are still working on a better parking plan. We will keep you updated.
There is no limit on the number of crew members that are allowed on site.
However keep in mind that space is limited, so please make sure that other runners and crew can also do their jobs.
STRICT RULE: Crew Movement
With more runners and crew on site, traffic control is vital. Crew members MUST use the designated aisles to move around basecamp. Walking through, next to, or lingering in the starting corral is strictly prohibited. The corral is sacred ground for the runners.
You can buy a bracelet for a crew member which is strictly personal and which allows access to food & drinks as described in the next section for €30 per person for the entire event.
We know that running hour after hour, day and night, requires epic fuel. That’s why we’ve got you covered with continuous, delicious food and hydration throughout your Backyard Belgium experience.
Continuous Basecamp Fuel (Runners):
As long as you are actively in the race, your base nutrition is on us. We follow a natural daily flow to keep your engine running and your stomach happy: breakfast, lunch, and a hot dinner. When the long night shift hits, we’ll keep your spirits up with midnight snacks like fresh pizza and croque monsieurs. There is a constant supply of sweet and savory snacks. Standard hydration (water, coca cola, Ice Tea, coffee, and tea) is of course fully included for runners.
The Crew Bracelet (€30):
Your crew is working hard to keep you in the race! You have the option to buy an all-access Crew Bracelet for €30. This bracelet is strictly personal and valid for the entire duration of the event. It grants the specific crew member full access to the same continuous basecamp food and standard hydration as the runners.
Supporters & Pay-As-You-Go:
Buying a crew bracelet is entirely optional. Crew members who prefer not to buy one, as well as visiting supporters, can simply purchase snacks and drinks individually at our Legends Bar and catering stand throughout the weekend. Without a crew bracelet, you will not have access to the hot meals.
The Drinks Policy (Important!):
Please note that alcoholic beverages and non-alcoholic beers are NOT included in the runner’s registration price OR the Crew Bracelet. Whether you are a runner celebrating a hard-fought DNF, or a crew member holding down the fort, all (NA) beers and alcoholic drinks must be purchased separately at the bar.
During and after the race, showers will be available at the basecamp.
Navigating The Backyard: The Course
In a Backyard Ultra, getting lost is the last thing you want to worry about when the sleep deprivation kicks in. That is why we make sure the route is crystal clear so you can turn off your brain and just run.
Course Marking:
The entire 6.706km loop is flawlessly marked with our signature Legends Trails yellow arrows. These arrows are highly reflective, so your headlamp will easily pick them up during the long night shifts. No GPS navigation is required; just follow the arrows.
Day Course vs. Night Course:
To keep things safe and manageable, Backyard Belgium features two distinct loops: a Day Course and a Night Course.
At the split point between the two routes, there is a large, clearly visible banner indicating which path to take.
The Race Director will clearly announce when it is time to switch from the Day to the Night loop (and vice versa). Pay attention to this junction!
Terrain & Open Course:
The route offers a great, runnable mix of gravel roads, asphalt sections, and wooded areas. However, please be aware that the course is NOT closed off. The entire route remains publicly accessible. While there is only very limited traffic (even on the paved sections), it remains 100% your own responsibility to be cautious, respect other trail users, and watch out for vehicles.
Key Points:
Be prepared for all types of terrain and weather!
Highly recommended:
While there is no mandatory kit list, we do strongly recommend these items for your own comfort and safety.
