Grassroots Backyard Ultra
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About the race
The Grassroots Backyard Ultra is a Last Runner Standing event held on June 26, 2027 in Okotoks, Alberta. Runners complete repeated laps of a measured 6.71 km loop that follows the Sheep River pathway, includes some single-track trail, and has about 34 metres of elevation gain per lap. The course is described as runnable and consistent from lap to lap.
The Backyard format requires each runner to complete the 6.71 kilometre loop within one hour. A new lap begins at the top of each hour; warning whistles sound 3, 2 and 1 minute before each start. Runners must be in the starting corral before the bell and start moving when the bell sounds or they are removed from the race. Receiving aid while on course after the bell is not permitted. The last remaining runner must complete one additional lap to be declared the winner; all others are recorded as DNF.
Timed options run on the same loop, start on the hour alongside Backyard runners, and follow the same rules. Spots for timed events are limited.
- BACKYARD15 (BY15) 15 hours 100.65 km
- BACKYARD24 (BY24) 24 hours 100 miles
Registration opens August 4, 2026 and remains open until capacity is reached or registration closes. There are no refunds. Registrations may be transferred to another runner until June 1, 2027 for a $20 administration fee. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
