Ode to Laz Michigan Backyard Ultra

Event format

Ode to Laz Michigan is a backyard ultra held at Holly State Recreation Area, McGinnis area, Holly, MI. The event follows the traditional Big Dog backyard ultra format: contestants run a loop repeatedly and must be present at the start line each hour to begin the next lap. Each lap must be completed within one hour. An Oak Flats 3HR option allows entrants to complete one, two, or three loops within a three-hour window. Contestants provide their own aid; pacers are not permitted. Crew is permitted and may leave and return. Packet pickup occurs on race morning at assigned starting areas.

Course and logistics

Distances:

• 4.167 miles trail loop
• 4.167 miles night/road loop

The 4.167 mile trail loop has about 350 feet of climbing, with roughly two thirds technical single track, one third moderate walking path, and a few hundred yards of pavement. There are bathrooms along the trail. The night/road loop is an out-and-back on park road with about 250 feet of climbing. After lap 12 the course transitions to paved park road for subsequent loops and later returns to trail.

Parking for one vehicle overnight is available for full-event entrants; limited 10'x10' canopy or tent space is first-come, first-served. McGinnis campground is available for camping. Water is provided. Alcohol is permitted but glass containers are prohibited. No hiking poles and no headphones are allowed on trails.

Prizes and qualification

The race is a 2026 Silver Ticket event. The event winner may receive a Silver Ticket toward USA national backyard team eligibility if they claim US affiliation; if not, the ticket is unclaimed. The winner receives an Ode champion varsity jacket and a free individual entry to an Ode race within 12 months. Assists receive discounted future entries. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.