Mad Backyard Ultra
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MAD Backyard Ultra
MAD Backyard Ultra takes place on January 16, 2027 in East Ridge, Tennessee, and is organized by the Chattanooga Track Club. The event uses a backyard ultra format in which runners complete repeated loops until one finishing runner remains.
Each loop is 4.1667 miles and must be completed within one hour to advance to the next loop. The event is a qualifying race for The Big Dog's Backyard Ultra. Crew access is allowed at the start/finish area and tents and canopies are permitted near the start line. Race personnel provide aid at the start/finish.
Event options:
- 3-Hour event (open to all ages; minors need guardian waiver)
- 6-Hour event (18 years and older)
- 12-Hour event (18 years and older)
- 24-Hour event (18 years and older)
Key rules include mandatory placement in the starting corral before the top of the hour, starting each loop at the bell, and no aid from crew or other individuals while on the course. Pacers and artificial aids such as trekking poles are not allowed. Eliminated competitors and other non-competitors may not be on the course. Organizers give 3-, 2-, and 1-minute warnings before each loop.
The loop runs through Camp Jordan Park over exterior track, gravel, and grass; the course is described as flat, runnable, and non-technical. Amenities note hotels within about a mile, tent and RV camping (RV spots require advance notice), and packet pickup at 323 Camp Jordan Parkway on Friday, January 15 from 5:00–6:30 PM and Saturday morning from 6:30–7:15 AM. All participants receive a coin; the final runner receives a unique award and runners who reach 100 miles receive a belt buckle. The race is part of the Chattanooga Ultra Championship series. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
