Ode to Laz Michigan Backyard Ultra

Ode to Laz Michigan Backyard Ultra

Ode to Laz is a backyard ultra held at Holly State Recreation Area in Holly, MI, at the McGinnis area. The event uses a repeated loop format: runners complete the same loop each hour and may continue as long as they wish. To continue a lap, a contestant must be standing at the start line at the top of each hour and complete the lap within that hour. Laps must be completed without outside assistance; contestants provide their own aid. Pacers are not permitted, but crew are allowed and may leave and return.

Course details include a daytime trail loop with approximately 350 feet of climbing and mixed surface terrain: technical single track, moderate hiking path, and some pavement. Bathrooms are available along the course. Night running moves to a road loop with about 250 feet of climbing on park road; organizers note a transition from trail to road loops beginning with lap 13. Parking for one vehicle overnight is available for full event entrants; 10'x10' canopy or tent spaces are first come, first served. McGinnis campground offers tent and RV camping. Alcohol is permitted and glass containers are prohibited. Water is provided and headphones and hiking poles are not allowed on trails.

The event awards a Silver Ticket to the 2026 champion for USA-eligible runners, with on-site prize pickup for nonvirtual entrants. Virtual entrants are not eligible for prizes or at-large qualification. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.