M*A*S*H Backyard Ultra
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About the race
MAS*H Backyard Ultra is an endurance running event held at Queen Elizabeth Park on Wellington Anniversary Weekend. Base Camp is beside the Ramaroa Centre at Mackays Crossing, approximately 45 km north of Wellington City. The event follows the Backyard Ultra format: each hour participants must complete a single lap of 6.71 km and return to the start before the cut-off. The event continues with repeated laps until only one participant completes one more lap than the rest and is declared the winner.
The course runs along coastal edges, open paddocks, the historic Yankee Trail, wetlands with kahikatea remnants, and ex-farm tracks, with about 80 m of elevation gain per lap. Participants are expected to be self-sufficient and must bring shelter, food, hydration, and any equipment required for extended field operations. Crew are welcome to support participants while respecting the event emphasis on self-sufficiency.
Registration is limited to 150 spots. Entry fees are listed for Soldier and U18 Recruit categories; U18 entries require a request process. Proceeds support restoration of on-site World War II exhibits in partnership with the Kapiti U.S. Marines Trust. The event frames its activities in the spirit of the Mobile Athlete’s Seaside Haven name, drawing on themes of operating in temporary field conditions under repeated time pressure. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
