KENT BACKYARD ULTRA - Bedgebury

Question 1

Am I allowed a support crew?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and for most runners, it helps a lot.

You can have a small crew with you at the event base to assist between loops (food, kit, encouragement, tough love, etc.). Just keep it low-key — space is limited, and this isn’t Glastonbury.

Runners are responsible for the behaviour of their crew.
If your crew causes problems, you could be removed from the event.

Crew aren’t allowed to pace you or provide outside assistance on the course — only at base between yards.

Question 2

Can I use running poles?

Accepted Answer

No — poles are not permitted.

Under official Backyard Ultra rules, no artificial aids are allowed. That means anything that gives you a mechanical or external advantage is off-limits.

Here are some examples of things not allowed on the course:

• Running poles
• Bicycles
• Dogs
• Scooters
• Cars
• Motorbikes
• Any form of outside transportation or support between loops

This race is about what you can do on your own, one loop at a time. No shortcuts. No exceptions.

Question 3

Am I allowed to run with my dog?

Accepted Answer

Q: Am I allowed to run with my dog?
No — running with a dog is not permitted in a Backyard Ultra.

The format follows strict rules: no outside assistance or animals on the course. It’s just you, the loop, and the clock.

Question 4

Can I bring my family and friends to watch?

Accepted Answer

Can I bring my family and friends to watch?
Yes — we welcome family and friends, but please be aware that space at Race HQ is limited. If they’re not part of your official support crew, we recommend they cheer you on from safe, accessible points along the course.

Important:
• No aid or support is allowed outside of Race HQ.
• You are fully responsible for the behaviour and actions of your crew or support team.

Anyone who causes disruption or breaks the rules may result in the runner being removed from the event.

Question 5

How long do I have to complete each lap?

Accepted Answer

You have exactly one hour to complete each yard.
Finish within the 60-minute window, and you move on to the next. Miss the bell, and you're out.

Question 6

Are there any rules in a Backyard Ultra?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Backyard Ultras follow a strict set of rules to keep the format fair and consistent across the world. Here’s a summary of the key ones:

1. The Course
• Must be a loop or out-and-back route
• Exactly 4.167 miles (6.7056 km)
• Same loop is used throughout the event

2. Starting Corral
• All runners must be in the corral when the bell rings
• The size of the corral stays the same for the entire race

3. Start Timing
• Each yard starts exactly one hour after the last
• Warnings are given at 3, 2, and 1 minute before the start
• You must start at the bell — no late starts allowed

4. On the Course
• You may only leave the course to use the toilet
• No pacers, no outside support, and no eliminated runners on course
• No artificial aids (including trekking poles, bikes, scooters, etc.)
• Slower runners must allow others to pass

5. Timing
• Timing is optional — it’s all about surviving the hour

6. Winner / Results
• The winner is the last person to complete a yard
• All others are DNFs
• If no one completes a loop beyond the others, there is no winner

7. No Cap
• There’s no time or loop limit — the race continues until only one remains

Question 7

Can I leave my gear somewhere during the event?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a drop bag area will be provided for participants to store their essential items, such as extra nutrition, warm clothing, and any replacement gear.

Hellfire Events Ltd

KENT BACKYARD ULTRA - Bedgebury

KENT BACKYARD ULTRA - Bedgebury

Organiser Details