Broken Anvil Backyard Ultra

Broken Anvil Backyard Ultra

Broken Anvil Backyard Ultra is a backyard ultra held in South Park / Pollmiller Lake Park in West Point, Iowa. The event consists of repeated 4.167 mile loops run on a single course that combines paved bike path, paved road, crushed gravel, and trail or grass sections. Each loop has about 175 feet of elevation gain and loss.

The race format uses hourly loops: each loop must be completed within an hour and the next loop begins exactly one hour after the previous. Warnings are given three, two, and one minute before the next loop. Runners must be in the starting corral and begin the loop at the sounding of the bell. Competitors may not leave the course during a loop except to use restrooms. No pacers are allowed and personal aid is not permitted during a loop, though common aid stations are provided. The last runner to complete a loop within the time limit is the winner; other participants are recorded as DNF with distance covered reported.

Support and logistics: each participant may use a 10' x 10' area for crewing and tent setup. Organizers provide unlimited water and limited fruit, snacks, electrolyte supplements, and coffee while supplies last. Camping is allowed on the soccer field infield near the start/finish on a first come first serve basis. Pollmiller Lake Campground offers 30 electrical campsites with 20, 30, and 50 amp breakers and the course runs through the campsite area.

Location: South Park, 61 5th Street, West Point, IA 52656. Registration closes September 13 and registrants by August 1 are listed to receive a hoodie and other items. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.