Ode to Laz Michigan Backyard Ultra

Event overview

Ode to Laz Michigan Backyard Ultra is a Last Person Standing backyard ultra held at Holly State Recreation Area, McGinnis campgrounds, Holly, MI. The event follows the traditional Big's Backyard format where runners repeat a set loop and must be at the start line every hour to begin the next lap. The race includes an Oak Flats 3HR option for runners who want to complete one, two, or three loops. The event is affiliated with Big's Backyard; results count toward at-large championship consideration and the 2026 champion receives a "Silver Ticket" for the USA national backyard team if the winner is eligible and claims US affiliation. Packet pickup is held race morning at assigned starting areas.

Course and rules

• 4.167 mile trail loop
• 4.167 mile night loop (park road out-and-back)

The trail loop has approximately 350 feet of climbing, about two-thirds technical single track, one-third moderate walking path, and a few hundred yards of pavement. The night loop on the park road has about 250 feet of climbing. Bathrooms are available along the course and water is provided. Contestants must complete each lap within the hour and may repeat the loop as long as they wish. Contestants provide their own aid; pacers are not permitted but crew is allowed. Additional logistics include overnight parking for one vehicle for full-event entrants, tent or canopy space on a first-come basis, campground camping available, alcohol permitted, and glass containers prohibited. A transition rule states that anyone in transition when the bell rings is still legally starting their next lap. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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