River-Run Backyard Ultra

River-Run Backyard Ultra

River-Run Backyard Ultra takes place on Saturday 24 October 2026 at the Waipukurau A&P Showgrounds in Central Hawke's Bay. The event is free and follows the backyard ultra format: runners complete a 6.7 km loop on the hour, every hour, until only the final competitors remain. A $500 cash prize is offered for the last man standing and a $500 cash prize for the last woman standing.

The course is a flat loop that follows the Tukituki River and combines limestone paths with sections of dirt single track. The surface can become slippery or muddy when conditions are cold or wet, so organizers note that grippy shoes may be useful. The course will be well marked.

Event headquarters are at the Waipukurau A&P Showgrounds, which serves as the start and finish for each lap. Facilities at the venue include ample parking on tarseal or grass, a large covered area at the start/finish, proper toilets with an additional portaloo located roughly halfway on the course, taps for filling water bottles, power for a lit start/finish area, space for tents or marquees, shade under trees, and a fire for warmth. The layout supports runners setting up a base station between loops. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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