A Backyard Ultra is a race not quite like any other. It is a last-one-standing event where runners run a loop of 6.7056 km every hour on the hour until there is only one runner left; all other runners are technically a DNF. Runners are rivals, but they are also teammates. They combine their efforts to complete as many yards (loops) as possible. However, it is not until only two runners remain that it becomes a race to see who will win.

Why run a race where there is a substantial chance of a DNF? Because it is a race against yourself more than anyone else. How far can you push yourself? 10 hours, 24hrs, 2 days! It is the ultimate endurance test of the body, mind and soul. 

2023, 2024 and 2025 were such amazing events, with 2024 earning two of the Red’s Backyard Ultra runners (one accepted to participate) on the 2024 Australian Team for the Backyard Ultra Australian World Team Championships!

This year, Red’s Backyard Ultra is a Silver Ticket event, with the winner guaranteed a place on the Australian Team (winner must complete a minimum of 24 loops). We can’t wait to welcome back familiar faces and meet new ones — to come and play, toe the line, and test your limits. Join the family and share the journey with us on Saturday 1 August 2026.

Please ensure you read and understand the 2026 Red's Backyard Ultra Race Manual before registering.

We are incredibly excited to announce that Red’s Backyard Ultra will host the Australian Team at the 2026 Backyard Ultra World Team Championships. It is an absolute honour to have been chosen to host this unique and prestigious event, and we cannot wait to welcome Australia’s best backyard ultra competitors to the Illawarra. We extend a huge thank you to everyone who has passionately supported Red’s Backyard Ultra over the past two years. Your support substantially strengthened our bid to host the event. We welcome your involvement in 2026 - watch this space. It is going to be epic!!!