Backyard is a relatively new running sport. It is neither running a set distance for time, nor running a set time for distance. The objective of Backyard is for the athlete to cover the maximum distance possible for their level of experience and ability. There is only one winner in a Backyard Ultra, the runner who covers the greatest distance. However there can be many successes, as the rational pacing and team atmosphere of a Backyard raises many runners to achievements they never thought possible. Every athlete in the race plays a part in the final outcome. The ultimate winner cannot reach the distance they achieve without the contributions of all the other participants.
In order to be an official Backyard Ultra race the organizers have to adhere to this set of rules. Failure to comply with the rules will result in a DNF.
The course is a loop of exactly 6,7056 km
Starting Corral
Measures to fit entire starting field
Corral stays the same size throughout the event
Participants must be in the starting corral at the bell
Starts
Each loop starts precisely 1 hour after the last
Warning is given 3, 2, and 1 minutes prior to the start
All participants must start at the bell (no late starts)
Loops
Participants may not leave the course until each loop is completed, except for restrooms
No non-participants on the course (including eliminated runners)
No personal aid during a loop (common aid stations are allowed)
Each loop must be completed within an hour to be counted, including the final lap
No artificial aids (including trekking poles)
Slower runner must allow passes
Timing
Timing of the loops is optional
Winner/Results
The winner is the last person to complete a loop
All others are technically DNF
Results of each runner in terms of distance covered are to be given
If no runner can complete one more loop than anyone else, there is no winner
