Backyard Ultras: What are they, and How did I get on?!
Is it a buzz word? Is it just a trend? BYU’s are popping up everywhere but you might not even know what one is. I’m going to explain all, and how a simple trick transformed my race experience improving on last years success.
Welcome back to my blog, I really appreciate you taking time to read my mumblings. My March blog delve's into the exciting world of endurance racing - my favourite kind and very topical after Jasmin Paris recent success. I'm proud to share with you my experience at the third Rasselbock Backyard Ultra in Sherwood Forest, where I embarked on my second-ever Backyard Ultra race. I was challenged both physically and mentally, pushing me to discover new strategies for success in the moment and hopefully in the future.
First things first, What is a BYU?
A Backyard Ultra is an endurance running event characterised by its unique format and relentless nature. Participants run the same route exactly 4.1 miles, typically loops but maybe out-and-back, called “yards” with each yard starting at the top of the hour. Runners must complete the 4.1miles route within the hour to remain in the race. The race continues in this manner, with runners continuously completing yards until only one participant remains able to complete set course within the hour timeframe, thus winning the event leaving everyone else to DNF. The challenge lies not only in the physical endurance required to run for hours on end but also in the mental fortitude needed to maintain a consistent pace that doesn’t wipe you out but push through exhaustion and maintain fuel.
Erik from Rasselbock really does choose the best locations. His Backyard Ultra promised a challenging journey through Sherwood Forest's enchanting pine trails and gloomy forest paths. The looped-course spanned 4.19 miles of diverse terrain, including gravel tracks and natural woodland, and lots of tourists during daylight hours. As a solo entrant I knew when I stood at that start line, mental resilience would be my greatest asset in conquering this years BYU. I setup camp in the shared marquee for solo runners and made some friends before embracing the trails and sharing my goal out-loud was the perfect foundation for the race. Reflecting on my first race experience in 2023, I needed to find innovative ways to maintain focus and motivation throughout the gruelling hours ahead especially after dusk. Awoooooo.
The power of perception - step-up. This strategy, which wasn’t pre-planned, was a game-changer. Each lap, I implemented a very simple yet super effective trick—I changed just one item of clothing. The weather didn’t matter (well it did as we had all seasons in every lap) about halfway around the course I made a decision on what I was changing. It was a subtle shift, but it worked wonders for my mindset. By treating each lap as a fresh start in a semi-new outfit, I felt rejuvenated. It was as if I were embarking on a new race with renewed determination - only 1.3 parkruns to go. LOL.
With this newfound perspective, I embraced the rhythm of the race. Lap after lap, I pushed myself through the forest trails, drawing strength from the and the camaraderie and community of fellow runners. I found another firefighter. I found a wheelbarrow runner. I found old friends. In 2023 I was running 50-minute yards. My mental resolve remained steadfast, fuelled by the belief that each lap was a chance to rewrite my story I pushed the pace in this stunning surrounding landscape and came home in 40mins (average) giving me more time to properly fuel. As the miles accumulated, so did my sense of accomplishment. In 2023 I had a meal-plan, this year I had no plan just a goal to beat last year. At 12 yards, the equivalent of 50 miles, I buzzed at how far I had come since my first Backyard Ultra. I still felt really strong - obviously I was tired but I was looking
to find my inner-strength. I broke each lap down, and
made sure at milestones like half marathon, full
marathon, I gave myself a treat from my giant picnic.
Looking back I'm reminded of the power of perspective. Sometimes, the smallest adjustments can yield the greatest rewards. By embracing the idea of a "new race" with each lap, and rewards (just like training our pets) I tapped into pools of strength I never knew I possessed. I wish I pushed on at midnight for 3 more yards to achieve my all-time A-goal (100KM) but hey, I’m still happy with 50 miles in 8hours 59mins. As I crossed the finish line on the 12th yard, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the lessons learned in the build-up to this event. You can only ever trust yourself. It is your story. It is your battleground. I was never going to “win” but maybe the 3 yards could have made dreams a reality with a crew. I’ll never know.
What does the winner even get I hear you ask? Well… the winner will secure a place in the UK team event in October. If you win this then you’ll be going to BIGs! What is BIGs? Big's Backyard Ultra is the original backyard ultra in Tennessee, invented by Gary Cantrell, that’s right "Lazarus Lake" himself. Mr Barkley Marathon. 2019 saw the first female winner - Maggie Guterl. 2023 saw the World Record - 108 yards by Harvey Lewis and assisted by Ihor (one of the 2024 Barkley finishers) - Basically Ultra Running is just one big family, and all the events cross-pollinate.
In the world of endurance racing, success often hinges on more than just physical prowess—it's about manifesting a resilient mindset that propels you forward, lap after lap. So, the next time you find yourself facing a daunting challenge, remember the power of perception. Sometimes, a simple trick of the mind can make all the difference in the world. Oh and go and watch Jasmin Paris finishing the 2024 Barkley Marathon with 99 seconds to spare.
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