Bonneville Backyard Ultra
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Bonneville Backyard Ultra
The Bonneville Backyard Ultra is a last person standing ultramarathon held in Provo, UT, on an out-and-back course along Deer Creek Reservoir. Runners complete one 4.167 mile loop each hour. The out-and-back route measures about 2.08 miles each way and is described as mostly smooth and very runnable.
The event follows the Backyard Ultra format: each loop must be started on time each hour. Runners may finish a loop early to rest or refuel, but they must be inside the corral before the next bell rings. Late starts, pacers, and exceptions are not allowed; any runner who fails to start a loop on time is removed from the race. Only one runner finishes as the last person standing; all other participants record a DNF for that event.
Organizers use audible signals to mark the approach of each hourly start, including three whistles, two whistles, one whistle, and a bell to signal the start of the loop. Repetition, the hourly rest and restart pattern, and the potential for sleep loss are noted as key factors affecting performance. The event may invite a small number of waitlisted runners to serve as standby participants on race day to help ensure a full field. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
