KENT BACKYARD ULTRA SERIES: EVENT TWO - DOVER

Question 1

What time does the event start?

Accepted Answer

What time does the event start?

The first yard begins at 09:00 on Saturday 10 January 2026.
The site opens at 06:00.
Registration runs from 07:00 to 08:15.
The safety briefing starts at 08:20.

Please arrive early enough to park, get set up and collect your bib before the briefing so you are ready when we call runners to the corral.

Question 2

Where is the event held?

Accepted Answer

Where is the event held?

The event takes place at Great Farthingloe Farm, Dover, CT15 5AA.

Parking for the event is here:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/rEssPoRexNM1cvYT8

Please do not park at the barn under any circumstances.

There is plenty of space in the designated parking area as long as everyone parks responsibly and follows marshal instructions at all times. Please keep speeds low on the approach road and follow all signs and guidance from the team.

Question 3

What time can I arrive and set up?

Accepted Answer

What time can I arrive and set up?

The site opens at 06:00 on Saturday 10 January.

You can arrive any time from 06:00 onwards to park, set up your shelter and get yourself organised before registration opens at 07:00.

Unfortunately, you cannot set up on Friday 9 January. All arrivals and setup must take place on Saturday morning.

Please keep access lanes clear so runners and crews can move safely around the event village.

Question 4

Is camping available?

Accepted Answer

Is camping available?

Yes. There is space on-site for tents, gazebos, simple shelters and crew setups within the event village. Please choose your spot sensibly and keep access lanes clear for runners and marshals.

It is January, so you should fully expect the weather to be rough. Bring plenty of weight, strong pegs and secure fixings to anchor your tent or gazebo properly. The ground can be soft and the wind can pick up quickly.

A communal marquee will also be available, but space is limited.

Campervans
We have limited campervan parking close to the event village, giving you easy access between yards. Spaces are first come, first served, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Question 5

What is the average overnight temperature in January?

Accepted Answer

What is the average overnight temperature in January?

The average overnight temperature in Dover in January is around 2 to 4 degrees Celsius, often made colder by coastal wind. Please come prepared for severe cold and winter conditions.

Question 6

What is the route like?

Accepted Answer

What is the route like?

Route maps and GPX files can be found here:
https://hellfireevents.eventrac.co.uk/e/kent-backyard-ultra-dover-13463/route-maps

Day Route
• The first 3.2 km are on private road.
• The main climb begins just before 1.5 km and continues for roughly 1 km.
• It is too long to walk in full and a little too steep to run continuously, so a jog and walk combination is advised.
• Later sections switch to mixed trail which can become muddy after rain.
• Good grip is important.

Night Route
• Mostly private road with a short grass section.
• Predictable underfoot but remains slippery when wet, so trail shoes are advisable.
• The night route may be changed if icy conditions develop.
• Sections can flood in heavy rain. This is part of the event and runners will need to manage it.
• We will only alter the course if water depth rises above 40 cm.

Pacing Tip
It is advisable to run the first couple of yards slightly faster than your planned Backyard Ultra pace. This gives you extra time in the bank to learn the trail section early on.

Question 7

What is the weather usually like?

Accepted Answer

What is the weather usually like?

This is coastal winter running, so you should be prepared for anything. You may get clear skies and calm conditions, or you may get fog, strong wind or heavy rain. January weather can be harsh, so pack warm layers, waterproofs and enough kit to stay comfortable between yards.

Question 8

What kit do I need?

Accepted Answer

What kit do I need?

January conditions can be cold, wet and windy, and you will spend enough time resting between yards to get very cold if you are not properly prepared. This is a recommended kit list, not mandatory, but your safety and success at this event are your responsibility. Please come fully prepared for the conditions throughout the entire event.

We strongly recommend:

• Waterproof jacket with taped seams
• Trail shoes with good grip
• Headtorch suitable for trail running (minimum 300 lumens)
• Spare battery or a second light
• Warm layers, gloves and a hat
• A reusable bottle or cup
• Food and drink for your full effort
• Warm, dry clothes to change into after the event
• An emergency blanket
• A fully charged mobile phone with the key numbers saved:
• Race Director: 07442 718811
• Medical Director: 07442 718752
• Your bib number worn correctly, with accurate emergency details written on the reverse. In a serious incident, the medical team will use this information to support your care.

Our marshals and medical team will be on standby throughout the event. Please do not put them in a position where they need to step in because of poor preparation.

For high-quality lighting options, you can check out our event partner:
https://www.fenixlight.co.uk/

Question 9

Do I need a headtorch?

Accepted Answer

Do I need a headtorch?

Yes. The sun will set before the end of the seventh yard, which means your final descent back into the Farthingloe Valley on the last yard of the day route will be in fading light or full darkness. Please prepare for this.

We recommend a minimum output of 300 lumens, with a spare battery or a second light as backup. The surface can be slippery when wet, so make sure your lighting is bright enough to navigate safely.

For lighting options, visit: https://www.fenixlight.co.uk/

Question 10

What is the 7 Hour Challenge?

Accepted Answer

The 7 Hour Challenge runs alongside the full Backyard Ultra. Everyone starts together, runs the same route, follows the same rules and hears the same bell. It is not a separate event. The only difference is the time limit. Your race simply ends after seven yards.

You will start at 09:00, complete one yard every hour and finish your final yard at 16:00.

If you wish to continue beyond the seventh yard and keep running with the Backyard Ultra field, you may do so for an additional cost of fifty pounds. This is to comply with the Global Backyard Ultra rules. Payment is cash only, and you must upgrade before the start of the eighth yard.

The same rules apply at all times. If you miss the bell for the next yard, you are out, and that is where your Backyard Ultra experience at this event will end.

Question 11

What are the rules of the Backyard Ultra?

Accepted Answer

What are the rules of the Backyard Ultra?

• Each yard is 6.706 km.
• You must start each yard exactly when the bell rings.
• You must complete each yard within 60 minutes.
• If you do not finish within 60 minutes, you are out.
• If you do not start the next yard when the bell rings, you are out.
• All running, eating, resting and preparing must be done between yards.
• No artificial aid such as poles.
• No pacers or assistance on the course.
• Faster runners should give space and slower runners should be allowed to pass safely.
• You must follow the official marked route for that hour.
• Only one runner will complete the final yard. Everyone else receives a DNF under official rules.

These rules remain the same for both the full Backyard Ultra and the 7 Hour Challenge while runners are still active.

Question 12

Are there toilets on-site?

Accepted Answer

Are there toilets on-site?

Yes. There will be portable toilets located in the event village for runners, crews and spectators.

We will provide:

• Separate toilets for women
• Standard toilets for general use
• A small supply of female hygiene products in the women’s toilets

Men are not permitted to use the women’s toilets.
Women may use the men’s toilets if they feel comfortable.

We are doing a lot of work to improve accessibility for female runners in Backyard Ultras. This requires cooperation from everyone, so please only use the women’s toilets if this is your correct gender.

Question 13

Is water available on-site?

Accepted Answer

Is water available on-site?

Yes. There will be a water point in the event village where you can refill bottles, flasks and cups. Please bring your own reusable bottle or cup, as this is a cupless event.

Water will remain available for the full duration.

Question 14

Can I bring a crew?

Accepted Answer

Can I bring a crew?

Yes. Crews are welcome and can support you in the event village between yards. They can help with food, kit changes, warm layers and general support during your rest periods.

All crew members must register in advance using this link:
https://hellfireevents.eventrac.co.uk/o/hellfire-events-873

Crews cannot assist you on the course at any time. Pacing, guiding or offering any form of help while you are running is strictly prohibited.

Please ensure your crew keeps access lanes clear and respects the space needed for other runners.

Question 15

Are spectators allowed?

Accepted Answer

Are spectators allowed?

Yes. Spectators are welcome at the event. They can watch from the event village and enjoy the atmosphere.

Spectators must keep clear of:
• The start corral
• The timing area
• All access lanes used by runners and crews

Spectators are not permitted to assist runners on the course and must follow marshal instructions at all times.

Question 16

What medals or buckles can I earn?

Accepted Answer

What medals or buckles can I earn?

Every effort counts at this event. The awards are:

• Complete at least one yard: Kent Backyard Ultra DNF Medal
• Complete 24 yards or 100 miles: Bronze Buckle
• Finish as the Assist: Silver Buckle
• Finish as the Last One Standing: Gold Buckle
• Complete the most yards across the series: Series Black Buckle

The Last One Standing and the Assist also receive free entry to the following year’s event.

Question 17

What is the Fenix Into the Light Award?

Accepted Answer

What is the Fenix Into the Light Award?

The Fenix Into the Light Award is judged on the yard that starts at 15:00. It recognises runners who can still produce a strong effort after seven hours.

The award is given to:

• First male back from the 15:00 yard
• First female back from the 15:00 yard

Each winner receives a prize bundle from Fenix which includes:

• A Fenix Light Bag
• A Fenix Cap
• A Fenix Snood
• A Fenix HM65-T v2.0 headtorch

All runners in both the Backyard Ultra and the 7 Hour Challenge are eligible.

Question 18

What are the Enduo Sports Prize Drops?

Accepted Answer

What are the Enduo Sports Prize Drops?

Enduo Sports are supporting the event with a selection of spot prizes that will appear at random throughout the day.

These prize drops can appear:

• At the start line
• During your rest period
• As you return from a yard

There are no extra rules to follow and no competition to enter.

More details can be found at: https://www.enduosports.com/

Question 19

Do you charge any admin fees or extras?

Accepted Answer

Do you charge any admin fees or extras?

No. We do not charge admin fees, price increases or hidden extras.
The price you see when you enter is the price you pay.

Question 20

Can I spread the cost of entry?

Accepted Answer

Can I spread the cost of entry?

Yes. You can spread the cost using the payment plan option on Eventrac. There is no interest and no additional fees.
The final amount you pay is identical to paying in full.

Payment plans are available for both the Backyard Ultra and the 7 Hour Challenge.

Question 21

How does the referral scheme work?

Accepted Answer

How does the referral scheme work?

When you enter the event, you receive a personal referral link through your Eventrac account. If someone signs up using your link, both you and the person you referred receive rewards.

You can share your link with friends, clubmates or anyone who may enjoy the event. There is no limit to how many people you can refer.

We are working hard to increase female participation in Backyard Ultras, so please also share your link with your female friends. Let them know you have entered and invite them to join you.

Question 22

Where can I find final event details?

Accepted Answer

Where can I find final event details?

A full runner guide will be emailed to all participants by 6 January. It will include route maps, parking instructions, safety notes, timings and everything you need to know for the event.

The same guide will also be uploaded to the Eventrac page for easy access.

Please note that most of the information you need is already included in these FAQs.

Question 23

How do I enter the event?

Accepted Answer

How do I enter the event?

You can enter the Kent Backyard Ultra Dover at:
https://hellfireevents.eventrac.co.uk/e/kent-backyard-ultra-dover-13463

Both the Backyard Ultra and the 7 Hour Challenge options are available.

Question 24

Why is the kit list advisory and not mandatory?

Accepted Answer

Why is the kit list advisory and not mandatory?

The kit list is advisory because Backyard Ultras do not operate under a mandatory-kit system. The format places responsibility on each runner to prepare properly for the conditions, manage their own comfort and safety and make decisions that support their effort over many hours.

Even though the list is not compulsory, it is strongly recommended. Poor preparation will reduce your chances of continuing and may force you to stop earlier than planned.

Our marshals and medical team will be on standby throughout the event, but they should only be needed for genuine emergencies, not preventable issues caused by inadequate kit.

In short:
The kit list is not mandatory, but the responsibility is yours.
Arrive prepared, stay prepared and give yourself the best chance of succeeding.

Question 25

What do I need to know about camping at Dover?

Accepted Answer

What do I need to know about camping at Dover?

Camping is available on-site within the event village. You may bring tents, gazebos, shelters and campervans, but please be aware of the following:

• There are no charging points anywhere on-site
• Campfires are not allowed
• Cooking equipment is permitted but must be used safely
• The event is fully outdoors in winter and the average overnight temperature in January is 2 to 4 degrees Celsius
• Secure your structures with enough weight, strong pegs and solid fixings
• Keep access lanes clear for runners and crews

Camping is a great way to settle into the rhythm of the event, but your comfort and safety depend entirely on arriving well prepared for cold winter conditions.

Question 26

What provisions are available in the event village?

Accepted Answer

What provisions are available in the event village?

The event village provides a small selection of basic essentials to support you between yards.

You will find:

• Hot and cold water
• A microwave
• A selection of juices
• Complimentary tea and coffee

This is a cupless event, so please bring your own cup or bottle if you want a hot drink, cold drink or juice. Inform your crew so they can prepare accordingly.

This is a Backyard Ultra, which means you are responsible for your own nutrition. Please bring the food, snacks and fuels you depend on.

Plenty of delivery options are available locally through the Just Eat app if you prefer to order food during the event.

Question 27

What is the refund and transfer policy?

Accepted Answer

What is the refund and transfer policy?

You have a few options if you can no longer take part. All changes must be made before the event cut-off shown on the Eventrac page. After the cut-off, all decisions are final and no refund or transfer will be processed.

1. Edit your entry yourself
You can edit or transfer your entry directly through Eventrac. Some changes may incur a £10 admin fee.

2. Email us for flexible options
If you email hello@hellfireevents.com, we will offer you several options, including:
• A free transfer to an alternative Hellfire Events race
• A credit voucher for the full value of your entry
• A refund, minus a deduction to cover processing fees

3. Refund information
If you request a refund, we will deduct 10 percent from your booking. This covers the potential transaction costs and processing fees we incur.
If you booked through a third-party agent, their fees may be significantly higher and the deduction may be as high as 30 percent.

For the best flexibility and the lowest fees, we always recommend booking directly with Hellfire Events and selecting the optional insurance policy at checkout.

4. Female-specific circumstances
If you are pregnant, have recently given birth, or experience complications relating to your menstrual cycle, please email hello@hellfireevents.com and we will support you with a fair and flexible solution.

Important
Once the transfer or refund deadline has passed, all decisions are final. No late changes can be processed.

Hellfire Events Ltd

KENT BACKYARD ULTRA SERIES: EVENT TWO - DOVER

KENT BACKYARD ULTRA SERIES: EVENT TWO - DOVER

Organiser Details