Ode to Laz Michigan Backyard Ultra
Holly, United States • 18 Jul 2026
Ode to Laz Michigan Backyard Ultra - Holly, MI
The event is a backyard ultra held at Holly State Recreation Area, with multiple participation options: Last Person Standing, Bronze Registrant, Oak Flats 3HR, and a Virtual Ode to Laz. The race follows the traditional Big Dog backyard ultra format: runners repeat a fixed loop each hour and must be at the start line to begin each new lap.
Distances include:
- 4.167 mile trail loop
- 4.167 mile night loop
The primary trail loop includes about 350 feet of climbing, roughly two thirds technical single track and one third moderate path with several hundred yards of pavement. Bathrooms are available along the course. The night loop is an out-and-back on park road with about 250 feet of climbing. Competitors must complete each lap within the hour without outside assistance. Pacers are not permitted; crew is allowed and may leave and return. Contestants provide their own aid. No hiking poles or headphones are allowed on trails.
On-site amenities and rules note available overnight parking for one vehicle per full entrant, limited canopy space on a first-come basis, camping in the McGinnis campground, alcohol permitted, glass prohibited, and water provided. Packet pickup occurs race morning at assigned starting areas.
The event is Big's Backyard affiliated; the 2026 champion may receive a Silver Ticket for USA national backyard team consideration if the winner is USA eligible. Virtual entrants are not eligible for prizes or at-large qualifications. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.