Coffs Backyard Ultra

Event format and course

Coffs Backyard Ultra is a backyard ultra format held at the Coffs Harbour Showground and using the Coffs Creek Walkway. Each loop, called a "yard", is 6.706 km and is run every hour; runners repeat the same loop until only one runner remains. Each yard combines an 800 m wide showground loop with a 5.906 km out-and-back on the Coffs Creek Walkway. Surface breakdown per yard is 82% shaded gravel path, 10% wide boardwalks, and 8% bitumen. Total ascent and descent per yard are both 20 metres.

Facilities, rules and logistics

The event is donation-based and offers equal cash prizes of $1,000 to the last male and last female left standing. The hub is the Exhibition Pavilion with a large undercover gear area, multiple toilet blocks, a kitchen, charging stations, phone reception, a quiet room and free hot showers nearby. Free camping is available on the showground in two designated areas. A main aid station next to the corral provides water, non-alcoholic drinks, snacks and some hot food; an unmanned cupless water point and toilets are located under Hogbin Drive. First aid is provided by a professional on-site team. Mandatory items include the race bib (worn on the front), a mobile phone during night yards, a headtorch during night yards and a personal cup or flask as the event is cupless. Timing is tracked manually using tally boards and reusable bibs rather than timing chips. The event follows Backyard Ultra rules and promotes environmental care and shoe recycling. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.