Our First BackYard Ultra Marathon | Taipei Backyard Ultra by Runivore

By Almost Retired in Thailand | Jan 27, 2025
RSS

Our First BackYard Ultra Marathon | Taipei Backyard Ultra by Runivore

Join @kimberleyssandbox and I as we run our first backyard ultra marathon as we prepare for the Javelina Jundred in Arizona at the end of October 2025.


Discovering the Backyard Ultra Marathon: The Ultimate Test of Endurance


In the world of endurance sports, where the lines between challenge and madness often blur, the backyard ultra marathon has emerged as a unique and captivating event. If you're an avid runner or simply curious about the newest trends in the world of endurance racing, this blog post will walk you through the concept of a backyard ultra marathon, its origins, and what makes it a fascinating yet grueling test of physical and mental stamina.


What is a Backyard Ultra Marathon?


At its core, a backyard ultra marathon is a race format that presents a truly innovative take on traditional ultramarathons. Participants run a loop (often 4.167 miles or 6.7 kilometers long, designed to allow them to complete 100 miles in 24 hours) every hour on the hour. The challenge lies not only in the running but also in the strategy of pacing and resource management over an extended period. The race continues until only one runner remains who can complete the loop within the hour. All other participants must bow out, making it both a solo and a communal battle against fatigue, time, and the elements.


Origins of the Backyard Ultra Marathon


The concept of the backyard ultra marathon was popularized by the Laz Lake, the mastermind behind the infamous Barkley Marathons. Lake designed the first official backyard ultra marathon in 2012—The Big's Backyard Ultra—held in Bell Buckle, Tennessee. Since then, the format has gained traction, with races sprouting up around the world. Notable events include the Last One Standing, which pits runners against one another in a test of endurance that seems to stretch the very limits of human capability.


The Unique Appeal


What sets the backyard ultra marathon apart from traditional races is its emphasis on personal pacing and mental fortitude. Here are a few reasons why these events are increasingly popular among endurance athletes:


1. *Community Spirit: Unlike conventional races where the focus is often on finishing times and individual achievements, the backyard ultra encourages camaraderie and mutual support among participants. Runners often cheer each other on, creating an atmosphere of collective endurance.


2. Mental Challenge: Endurance is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. The repetitive nature of the loops, paired with the constant ticking clock, forces runners to confront their mental barriers. This can lead to profound personal insights and growth throughout the race.


3. No Rigid Finish Line: With traditional races, athletes are often driven by the goal of crossing a finish line that's set in stone. The backyard ultra removes that fixed endpoint, allowing runners to focus on completing the next loop rather than clocking a specific distance or time.


4. Suitable for Various Levels: While these races often attract seasoned ultrarunners, the format is accessible enough for beginners and moderate runners looking for a new challenge. The key is patience and pacing rather than sheer speed.


Preparing for a Backyard Ultra Marathon


If you're considering taking the plunge into the world of backyard ultra marathons, preparation is key. Here are some tips to keep in mind:


- Train Your Mind as Well as Your Body: Long training runs and increasing your mileage are essential, but don’t neglect mental training. Visualization techniques and building mental resilience can help you cope with the psychological demands of the race.


- Pace Yourself: The detriment of going out too fast is a lesson many ultrarunners learn the hard way. Establish a sustainable pacing strategy that allows you to maintain energy throughout the race.


- Fuel and Hydrate Strategically: The hourly intervals provide an opportunity to refuel, but make sure to practice eating and drinking while running. Finding the right nutrition strategy that works for you will be crucial.


- Mind Over Matter*: Embrace the boredom and monotony of the loops. Use this time to reflect, strategize, and connect with fellow runners, or simply enjoy the solitude of nature.


Conclusion


Backyard ultra marathons encapsulate the essence of endurance racing—the endless push against physical and mental boundaries. They represent not just a test of speed but a celebration of the human spirit, resilience, and community. Whether you are a seasoned runner, a newcomer eager for the next challenge, or an observer captivated by the spectacle, the backyard ultra marathon is an event that challenges our perceptions of what it means to truly go the distance. So why not lace up your running shoes and step into the fascinating world of backyard ultramarathons; you might just discover a new passion!