Persistence Backyard Ultra

Persistence Backyard Ultra: August 1, 2026, Eco Park (Arva, ON)

The Persistence Backyard Ultra is a backyard ultra held at Eco Park, 15889 Medway Road, Arva, Ontario, on August 1, 2026. The course uses a circuit of approximately 3.36 kilometres; runners must complete that circuit twice consecutively within each hour to cover the required 6.7056 kilometres per hour. The event continues until one runner completes one loop more than all others or until no runners can complete another loop.

The venue is a private facility; the course will not be open to runners before race day and the layout will be set up on site. The surface is mainly crushed stone trail with some grass and a dirt road.

The race is an official affiliated event of Big Dog's Backyard Ultra and is sanctioned by Athletics Ontario. This edition is a Silver Ticket event, giving the winner an automatic entry to compete at the World Team Championship. A portion of registration fees is donated to the Children's Health Foundation; fundraising has exceeded the stated goal.

Key rules and logistics: the event is capped at 67 participants, there is no waitlist, and open spots are filled on a first come, first served basis if vacancies occur. Each runner may begin with two crew members; spectators are not permitted. There is no official timing. Participants must supply their own food and drinking water as no potable water is available on site. Headlamps are required after dark, reflective gear is encouraged, and medical support will be on site. Prize items include a commemorative hoodie, a Laz Jacket and a silver coin for the winner, plus a free entry to the next Persistence Backyard and conditional travel assistance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.