The Backyard is a unique race format in the world of trail running.
Unlike traditional races, where the distance is set in advance, the concept here is different:
runners complete identical laps until they can no longer continue.
It's a format that tests both your physical and mental strength.
One lap. One hour.
The principle is simple.
A 6.706-kilometer loop.
A tour departs every hour.
Runners must complete the lap before the next hour begins in order to start the next lap.
If a runner arrives after the start…
their race is over.
A 24-hour format In some Backyard races, the event can last several days. For the GTLC Backyard, the challenge is intentionally limited to a maximum of 24 hours. Riders can therefore complete up to 24 laps, for a total of 160.9 km. At the end of the 24 hours, the rankings are determined based on the number of laps completed.
A challenge that is as much mental as it is physical
The Backyard doesn't just reward speed.
This format requires:
- consistency
- effective effort management
- of the strategy
- the ability to start over again and again
Every hour is a fresh start.
The heart of the race: base camp
Between each lap, the runners return to base camp.
That’s where they can:
- recover
- eating and drinking
- rest
- prepare the next loop
The base camp quickly becomes the hub of the entire expedition.
A special atmosphere
As the hours go by, the atmosphere changes.
- One departure follows another.
- Fatigue is setting in.
- Night is falling.
The number of runners is gradually decreasing.
And every hour, the bell signals a new beginning.
A simple question
When the bell rings…
Will you go for another lap?