Persistence Backyard Ultra

Event

Persistence Backyard Ultra is scheduled for August 1, 2026 at Eco Park, 15889 Medway Road, Arva, Ontario. This is the fifth edition of the affiliated backyard ultra format and the race is capped at 67 participants. A portion of registration fees is donated to the Children's Health Foundation; current fundraising shows CA$1,017.31 raised for that charity. The event is an official affiliated race of Lazarus Lake's Big Dog's Backyard Ultra and is designated a Silver Ticket event - the winner receives an automatic entry to compete in the World Team Championship. Sponsors include BackRoads Brews + Shoes and Tailwind Nutrition. Registration status is listed as sold out.

Course and rules

The course is a small circuit of approximately 3.36 km that must be completed twice consecutively within the hour to make a required 6.7056 kilometres loop. Surface types include crushed stone trail, grass, and a dirt road; the course stays close to Race HQ and is on a private facility that is not available for pre-race access. The event continues in repeated hourly loops until one runner completes one loop more than all others. There will be no official timing.

Race rules limit each runner to two crew members at the start, with crew changes allowed during daylight. Spectators are not permitted and race bibs must be worn visibly on the front. Headlamps are required after dark and medical staff on site may withdraw runners for safety reasons. Runners must bring their own food and drinks; there is no potable water on site though some hydration options are provided. Shelters and a covered pavilion are available. The winner receives a commemorative jacket, a silver coin, free entry to the next Persistence Backyard, and conditional travel assistance. Refunds are not issued; withdrawals by June 17 receive a 100% race credit, later withdrawals receive a 50% credit. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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