Empower Backyard Ultra

Empower Backyard Ultra - November 8, 2025

Empower Backyard Ultra is a timed backyard format event held at Countryside YMCA in Lebanon, Ohio. The event capacity is 150 runners across three events: the traditional backyard plus new fixed-end 12 hour and 24 hour backyard options. Entry fees vary by date; early pricing, mid-tier, and late pricing apply. Registering by October 4 guarantees event swag.

The daytime course uses fairly smooth, wooded trails on YMCA property with small elevation changes, roots, and occasional rocks; rain can make sections muddy. The measured loop is 4.1667 miles, wheeled and verified with GPS watches. The night course is an out-and-back on the Lebanon bike path, about 2.08 miles each way, with no road crossings or car traffic; it passes residential areas and requests that runners respect private property and keep noise low.

The backyard format follows the standard rule of repeating the loop every hour until only one runner remains. Runners must be standing in the starting corral when the bell rings to continue; late starts are not permitted. Once the bell rings, runners may not receive aid or visit their crew until they complete the loop, except to use the bathroom. Crews are limited to three members at a time. Runners must provide their own aid. A staging area for tents and a small space near the start/finish for personal items are available. Alcohol is not permitted. Water, coffee, and non-caffeinated Tailwind are provided. Swag is provided to all entrants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.