Back Cove Backyard Ultra
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Back Cove Backyard Ultra
The Back Cove Backyard Ultra is a timed loop event held at Back Cove Park in Portland, ME, organized by The Grind Run Company. Runners complete an approximately 4.16 mile loop each hour until only a single participant remains.
The course follows the Back Cove Trail, a 3.5 mile non technical, mostly flat gravel loop with a short paved bridge crossing. A 0.60 mile add on on the Bayside Trail at the start and finish area brings each loop to the standard backyard ultra distance. The trail runs along the edge of a tidal estuary basin and provides views along the route. Parking is free in the public lot adjacent to the start and finish on a first come first served basis.
There are two aid stations. An unstaffed station in Payson Park will offer water, basic first aid supplies, and packaged snacks. A fully staffed station at the start and finish will provide water, electrolytes, packaged and prepared snacks, and basic first aid. Event personnel will remain at the start and finish for the duration of the event. Participants may leave drop bags or supplies at that location and there is space for a small tent or canopy near the start and finish. Porta potties are available in Payson Park and at the start and finish area.
Registration opens January 1, 2027 at 12:00 AM ET. The event is described as a hyper local race with lower entry pricing, volunteer support, and minimal event swag. Refunds are not issued except for extraordinary circumstances at the organizers discretion, and a pregnancy deferral is offered for use the following year. Volunteers support event operations throughout. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
