We run in the backyard for many different reasons. We run because it is fun. We run to socialize with our friends (old and new). We run to go further than we have ever gone before….
But, for many of us, we run because we want to eventually go to Big Dog’s Backyard, and pit ourselves against the best in the world. And why should we not harbor such ambitions? In the backyard, anyone can win. One of the fundamental imperatives for any sport is to leave the outcome in the hands of the athlete. And so we want it to be in the backyard. Your road to Big’s is attached. Along the way is the opportunity to represent your country on a national team, to compete for a national championship… and, of course, a clear path to reach the world championships in Big Dog’s Backyard.
Backyard Ultra – World Individual Championship
The top 50 winners of the national championships will secure berths at the World Individual Championships to be held at Big Dog’s Backyard . In addition to those champions, there will be an additional 25 runners selected from the At-Large list… the top performances of the previous 2 year qualifying period.
The Backyard Ultra concept is simple.
At 0635 hours on Saturday, we will start a race around the 4.166667 mile Big Trail. The time limit will be one hour. At 0735 hours, we will begin another race around the trail. We will do the same at 0835, 0935, and so on, every hour, until only one runner can complete a race within the time limit. Any runner not in the starting corral for any race, is not eligible to continue. No late starts! If no single runner can complete a race at the end, there will be no winner.
At 1835 hours, the races will transfer to a road out and back course. At 0635 hours the following morning, we will return to the trail loop.
Have you ever thought that you could not be beaten, if only the faster runners were unable to run away and leave you? This is your chance to find out. Every surviving runner will be tied for the lead, every hour.
Runners are responsible for their personal aid. Water will be available throughout the race (mineral water or city water). Brats and Chili will be served beginning at 1500 hours and continuing until the finish. Rumor has it, there will be moonshine testing lessons around the campfire.
Crews are allowed, but not necessary. 4×8 foot spaces will be provided for runners near the start/finish (first come, first-served). Runners who give up will be required to vacate their space, so that survivors can move closer to the starting corral.
Since the original backyard ultra was run, many replicas have been held around the world. Most of those races have cutoffs and tiebreakers. The Big Backyard will continue until but one runner is left standing… no matter how long it takes. This is a race to the death…
Big’s Backyard Ultra. Accept no substitutes!
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