Sydney's Backyard Ultra
Saint Ives, Australia • 18 Apr 2026
Sydney's Backyard Ultra : event description
Sydney's Backyard Ultra is an open-ended endurance race held at St Ives Showground on 18 April 2026. The event uses a repeating loop format: each "yard" is 6.706 km, and runners must complete one loop every hour. If a runner fails to finish a loop within the hour, fails to start a loop, or withdraws, they are out. The race continues until only one runner remains; total distance is therefore unlimited.
The course will be marked the day before and each loop has about 34 metres of elevation gain. The event capacity is 500 runners and the entry price is listed as $275.75. Included in the entry are an event running shirt, free race photos, a finishers medal that reflects distance achieved, and live streaming on YouTube.
Mandatory items include an allocated race number, a head torch with spare batteries, a charged mobile phone, and a reusable cup or flask because the event is cupless. Recommended items cover shelter and a chair, weather protection, spare clothing and shoes, lighting for personal aid areas, recovery tools, extra food and hydration, and a personal first aid kit. Gazebos must not exceed 3 metres by 3 metres and must be securely weighed down.
Support crews are welcome but may only assist runners after a yard is completed. Pacers are not permitted. Course etiquette and race manual rules apply to all participants and crew. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.