Blacks Grove Backyard Ultra
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Blacks Grove Backyard Ultra Presented by Agony of DeFeet Wadena Run Club
The event is the first Wadena Backyard Ultra, hosted at Blacks Grove Park in Wadena, Minnesota. It offers two formats: a Backyard Ultra Division run as a Last Runner Standing event and a One Loop Fun Run consisting of a single 4.167 miles loop. Each division is limited to 60 entrants with a waitlist available if a cap is reached.
The course is technical singletrack through Minnesota woods with roots, rocks, and rolling hills. The backyard format uses repeated loops that start on the hour; runners who finish a loop within the hour may rest until the next start. Missed starts or not finishing a loop within the hour result in a DNF. No pacing or outside help is allowed on course. The last runner to complete a solo loop is the winner.
Event specific rules include a Grind Reversal where direction changes every five loops, a Silence Rule from 10 PM to 5 AM that limits music and noise makers, and a One Comfort Policy requiring each runner to select one comfort item from each category for the whole event. Eliminations are signaled by a gong and finishers receive personalized DNF chips.
Mandatory gear includes a phone, headlamp after dark, reflective gear, hydration, weather layers, and personal nutrition. Designated primitive camping is available; no electrical outlets and no open flames except at designated fire pits. Crew support is allowed only in the start finish yard. The race director may modify or cancel the event for safety. Waivers are required during registration and again at packet pickup. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
