Western Yards Backyard Ultra - Connacht

Western Yards Backyard Ultra - Connacht

This event is a Backyard Ultra held in Kilcornan Woods & Trails, County Galway. The format requires runners to complete a loop of 6.706 km each hour; runners who fail to complete a loop within the hour or who do not return to the start line for the next loop are eliminated. Each loop starts on the hour with audible warnings in the final minutes and all participants must begin at the whistle. There is no fixed finish distance; the event continues until only one runner completes a loop after all others have been eliminated.

The loop has approximately 20 m of elevation gain and uses woodland trails, grassy paths, and gravel surfaces. Only major junctions are marked. GPS devices are not allowed on course. Trekking poles are not permitted. Parking at the venue is limited.

Head-torches are mandatory during periods of darkness and spare batteries are required. All runners must carry the mandatory Level C kit which includes a waterproof jacket with hood and taped seams, hat or buff, gloves, whistle, charged mobile phone, foil blanket or bivvy, waterproof full leg cover, means to carry at least 500 mL water, emergency food, map, and compass. The exact kit to be carried will be confirmed at registration and random kit checks may be conducted.

Entry opens 6 April 2026 and closes 6 May 2026. Entry cost is €50 and the field is limited to 150 runners. Prize giving will be held at Kilcornan Walled Garden. The Last One Standing receives a €100 Booley voucher and captains the Connacht team in the All Ireland Championship Final. Other vouchers and commemorative items are awarded and anyone completing 24 loops or more receives a 100 mile medal. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.