Ode to Laz Michigan Backyard Ultra
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Event Overview
The Ode to Laz Michigan Backyard Ultra is a running event modeled after Laz Lake's original Backyard Ultra format. The event slogan is "Finishing Last Means the Most."
Event Format
The main event is the Last Person Standing race. All contestants start a 4.167-mile trail loop. Runners must repeat this loop as long as they wish, starting a new lap every hour from the starting corral. Each lap must be completed within the hour without outside assistance. The last runner standing, who completes one more lap than all others, wins.
At 9:00 p.m., the course switches to a paved closed park road for night loops, then returns to the trail at 9:00 a.m. A transition period exists between specific laps for runners to move from the trail finish to the road loop start.
Courses and Location
The event takes place at the Holly State Recreation Area near Holly, Michigan. The specific address is 5000 McGinnis Rd. The daytime trail loop features approximately 350 feet of climbing and consists of two-thirds technical single track and one-third moderate walking path, plus a few hundred yards of pavement. The night loop is an out-and-back on a park road with about 250 feet of climbing. Bathrooms are available along the courses.
Race Options and Rules
Participants can enter several categories:
- Last Person Standing
- Bronze Registrant
- Virtual Ode to Laz
- Oak Flats 3HR (a shorter option to experience one, two, or three loops)
The event is a Big's Backyard affiliated race. Results count towards "at-large" championship consideration, and the 2026 champion wins a "Silver Ticket" to join the USA national backyard team, provided they are eligible. Virtual racers are not eligible for prizes or championship rankings.
Key rules include:
- Contestants provide their own aid.
- Pacers are not permitted, but crew is allowed.
- Water is provided.
- No hiking poles or headphones on the trails.
- Alcohol is permitted, but glass containers are prohibited.
Logistics
Packet pickup occurs on race day morning at assigned starting areas. Parking for one vehicle overnight is available at the start/finish for full event entrants. A 10'x10' canopy or tent space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping is available in the McGinnis campgrounds within the park.
A daily per-car park entry fee is charged by the state and is not included in the race entry. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
