Yellowbrick Backyard Ultra

Yellowbrick Backyard Ultra

Yellowbrick Backyard Ultra is a last-runner-standing backyard ultra held at Kinsey Park in Peoria, Illinois. The course is a 100% single-track trail with no roads or water crossings. The park has a Wizard of Oz theme and local wildlife such as deer, birds, and squirrels.

The event uses an hourly loop format: a 4.16 mile loop begins each hour and repeats until a single runner remains. Runners must be back at the start line on the hour to begin the next loop; there are 5-minute and 1-minute warnings before each start. Except for restrooms, runners may not leave the course during a loop. Pacers are not allowed. When a runner drops, they must notify race staff before returning to their vehicle.

Packet pickup is available the day before and the morning of the event at the start/finish area. All entrants receive a T-shirt, sticker, and participant award. There is an overall winner award and additional prizes for runners who reach 50 km, 50 miles, and 100 miles. An aid station will offer snacks, warm foods, water, Gatorade, and soda as the race progresses.

The loop has small rolling hills with roughly 70 feet of elevation gain per mile. The event is family friendly; dogs are allowed in the start/finish area on leash but may not pace runners. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.