Alexandra Airport Carousel Backyard Ultra
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About the race
The Alexandra Airport Carousel Backyard Ultra is a backyard ultra-format running event held at Alexandra Airport, Central Otago. Runners complete a fixed loop of 6.71 km with about 50 m of elevation gain each lap. The format requires participants to start a new lap on the hour, every hour; runners must return to the corral before the next bell or they are recorded as a DNF. Only one finisher is possible when all other runners stop.
The course mixes hardpacked mountain-bike single track, 4WD tracks and a stretch of pine forest, and it runs around the airport with mountain views. The event is self-supported on course; participants must provide their own shelter, chair, food and water for use between laps. On-site tent hire is available through an event partner, with delivery, setup and pack-down provided for a limited number of tents booked in advance. A communal marquee is also provided for those without a tent on a first-come, first-served basis.
Event logistics note that Alexandra township is under a 5 minute drive from the venue for restocking and accommodation, and there is mobile reception at base and on the course. A portion of entry fees is donated to I Am Hope and Bowel Cancer New Zealand. Entries for the 2027 edition are open and the event includes tiered pricing and priority tent spots for early paid entries. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
