Grind on the Grid Backyard Ultra

Event overview

Grind on the Grid Backyard Ultra takes place on Saturday, May 9, 2026, in Wingate, Indiana, at 3272 East New Richmond Road. The event follows the backyard ultra format in which runners complete repeated loops and the last person to complete a loop is declared the winner. Registration closes on Thursday, May 7.

Course and format

Each loop is 4 miles 880 feet in length and is an out-and-back with a short grass trail loop near the end. The running surface is approximately 0.5 miles gravel, 0.5 miles grass, and 3.167 miles of road with shoulders. The course layout is based on four 1-mile straightaways with a short connection to form a single yard.

Loops start exactly one hour after the previous start, with warnings given at 3, 2, and 1 minutes before each start. All competitors must start at the bell; late starts are not allowed. Each loop must be completed within an hour to count.

Rules and logistics

Competitors may not leave the course during a loop except to use restrooms. Portapotties will be available near the starting corral. Personal aid is not allowed during a loop; common aid stations are permitted. No non-competitors are allowed on the course, and artificial aids, including trekking poles, are prohibited. Tent or canopy setup the night before is permitted. Results will report distance covered for each runner. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.