*** Backyard ultra rules were standardized by the original race, Big's Backyard Ultra, and can be found at www.bigsbackyardultra.com. Our race rules are based on theirs and generally fall in line with established precedents set by other races.

Backyard is a 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.

Course:

• Out and back course on the Shawan Downs cross country course
• 4 miles 880 feet in length (4.1667 miles)
• Participants must be inside the corral at the bell

Starts:

• Each Yard starts precisely one hour after the last
• Warning must be given 3, 2, and 1 minute before the bell
• All competitors must start at the bell (No late starts)

Yards:

• Except for restroom breaks a competitor cannot leave the course until the Yard is complete
• No non-competitors may accompany active entrants on the course (including eliminated runners)
  • That includes family members, pets, friends, coaches, pacers, etc.
• No personal aid from your crew is acceptable during a Yard. You may accept aid from a fellow competitor out on the course.
• Each Yard must be completed in less than an hour to be counted
• No artificial aids (including trekking poles)
• Slower runners must yield/allow passes
• No personal speakers allowed on course. Headphones are allowed, but they must be open ear (like Skokz) or only one ear may be covered. It is essential that you can hear instructions from race staff and be aware of your surroundings.
  • It's also a little rude to shut everyone else out. Backyard ultras tend to be social affairs. Get to know your fellow competitors, it makes the experience more enjoyable

Timing:

• Lap times for each participant will not be documented by the race
• A timing clock will be used to keep track of the time for each yard

Winner/Results:

• The winner is the last person to complete a Yard
• All others are technically DNF
• Results of each participant in terms of Yards and mileage completed will be documented in the race results
• If no participant can complete one more yard than anyone else there is no winner