Great Lawn Backyard Ultra
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Great Lawn Backyard Ultra
The Great Lawn Backyard Ultra is an inaugural backyard-format ultrarunning event held on November 14, 2026 in Cranbury Park, Norwalk, Connecticut. The event uses a repeated loop format: competitors run an exact 4.167 mile loop each hour, with the race continuing until only one runner completes a lap within the hour time limit.
The course runs through historic estate grounds, wooded single-track trails, and manicured park paths. The route changes direction every four hours, alternating clockwise and counterclockwise laps. Elevation changes are described as rolling and manageable, and the layout keeps the start and finish area spectator friendly.
As a backyard ultra, the central aid station and runner village are located at the start/finish corral. Runners may use personal setups and crew in the designated basecamp area between laps. Race-provided hydration, nutrition, warm food, and hot drinks will be available; staff and volunteers support runners throughout the event.
Key race rules include a bell that signals each hourly start, a requirement to be in the starting corral when the bell rings, and a 60-minute limit to complete each loop. The event has a no-refund policy and allows rollovers by request to the organizers. Registration opens August 22, 2026 and field size is limited for the inaugural year.
Runners are advised to prepare for cold November conditions with warm layers, change clothes, heavy jackets, gloves, and reliable headlamps with extra batteries. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
