Sole Survivor Backyard Ultra - Richland, WA

Sole Survivor Backyard Ultra - Richland, WA

Sole Survivor Backyard Ultra is the seventh annual backyard ultra held at 1200 Carrier Rd., Richland, WA. The format uses repeated hourly trail loops of 4.16667 miles. At the top of each hour runners begin the loop and must complete it within 60 minutes to remain in the race. The event continues hour by hour until a single runner completes one final solo loop and becomes the finisher; all others are recorded as DNFs relative to that finisher.

There is one aid station at the start/finish with typical aid station food, abundant ice, and hot soups offered overnight, including vegan and chicken noodle options. Participants may camp in their space and some pop up canopies are provided on a first come, first served basis. Crews and spectators may attend but must remain in the parking area and may not run the course or act as pacers. Pets are not allowed on course while runners are present; service animals are permitted.

The trail loop features about 40 feet of elevation gain per lap, beginning with approximately 0.4 miles of pavement to spread the field, then predominantly single track with a few rocks and roots, 30 to 40 percent shaded, and a short 6 to 8 foot climb. Runners may use the time between loops to rest, eat, tend to gear, or nap but must be back in the starting corral before the hour begins. Entrants who reach 100 miles receive a custom belt buckle. Sole Survivor is an affiliate of Big's Backyard Ultra and the winner may become eligible for entry to that championship event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.