Grassroots Backyard Ultra
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About the race
Grassroots Backyard Ultra is a Last Runner Standing event held in Okotoks, Alberta on June 26, 2027. Runners complete repeating loops of a measured course: each loop is 6.71 km, follows the Sheep River pathway with some single-track trail, and includes about 34 metres of elevation gain per loop. The format requires completing each loop within one hour; a new lap begins at the top of each hour and warning whistles are given three, two, and one minute before each lap start. Runners must be in the starting corral before the bell, begin moving at the bell, and may be disqualified for a late start or for receiving aid while on course. The last remaining runner must complete one additional lap to be declared the winner; all other competitors are recorded as DNF.
Timed events run on the same course and follow the same Backyard rules, with a clock-defined finish:
- BACKYARD15 BY15 : 15 Hours | 100.65 km
- BACKYARD24 BY24 : 24 Hours | 100 Miles
Registration opened August 4, 2026; registration closes when the event reaches capacity or on the published closing date. There are limited spots for the timed events. Age limit: participants must be 16 years or older on race day. There are no refunds; registrations may be transferred to another runner until June 1, 2027 for a $20 administration fee submitted by email. The 2026 edition had 92 starters and 42 runners who completed at least 15 hours (100 km). The course record is 35 loops set in 2024. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
