Sparks Backyard Ultra
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Sparks Backyard Ultra
The Sparks Backyard Ultra takes place on May 22, 2027 at Sparks Marina, 300 Howard Drive, Sparks, Nevada. The race is organized by Sparks Ultras and is an official Backyard Ultra Association qualifying event.
Participants run a 4.167 mile course each hour until only one runner remains. On the Sparks Marina course this is a little over two laps per yard; each lap measures about 1.89 miles and an additional short loop around Veteran's Plaza and the Peninsula is used at the start of each yard to reach the exact 4.167 mile distance. Signs will mark the course.
Support at the venue includes water, ice, Hammer Nutrition drinks, and standard aid station fare such as pretzels and gels. The event will provide tents, chairs, and cots; runners may also use their own personal aid setup between yards.
Race formats include:
- Open-ended Backyard Ultra: 4.167 mile yard repeated until one runner remains.
- 24 hour mini Backyard: complete yards for 24 hours.
- 12 hour mini Backyard: complete yards for 12 hours.
- 6 hour mini Backyard: complete yards for 6 hours.
- 3 hour mini Backyard: complete yards for 3 hours.
Key rules require each yard to be completed in less than one hour, no personal aid during a yard, no leaving the course except for bathroom breaks, and no artificial aids. Awards include a 100 mile belt buckle and flannel shirt, finisher awards for five yards, and placings for top finishers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
