Capital Backyard Ultra

Capital Backyard Ultra : Lorton, Virginia

The Capital Backyard Ultra is a backyard ultra held at Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area, 10702 Harley Rd., Lorton, Virginia, near Washington DC. The format consists of repeated loops; each completed loop is a yard and the event continues until only one runner has completed more yards than every other participant.

The course loop is 4.167 miles (6.7056 km). At its core the format requires three things: being in the starting corral when the bell rings, starting with the bell, and completing the loop within the hour. The event uses a runnable rolling daytime loop and a fast paved night loop. Runners stage beneath a large on-site pavilion and crew setups are located seconds from the starting corral. During the race runners are welcomed back each yard with premium food, refreshments, and race support from an aid station staffed by two professional chefs who are also experienced ultrarunners.

Entry is managed through Ultrasignup with a waitlist and rolling invitations until the field reaches capacity. Automatic entry is offered to runners who have completed a 100-mile race and to previous Capital Backyard Ultra participants; beginning December 1, 2026, runners who have completed a 50-mile race may also receive invitations if spots remain. The field is limited to 65 runners. The all-inclusive entry fee for 2027 is $225 and includes a dedicated 12x12 crew/tent space, overnight camping Friday night, chef-supported aid station and race food, premium food and refreshments, an official Boco Gear race hat, and an official race shirt. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.