So, what exactly is a backyard ultra? Picture this: you're running a loop of 4.167 miles (or 6.706 kilometers), and you must complete it every hour, on the hour, for as long as you can. The last person standing wins the race. It's as simple as that. But behind this event format lies a test of both physical endurance and mental fortitude.

“Running is not, as it so often seems, only about what you did in your last race or how many miles you ran last week. It is, in a much more important way about community, about appreciating all the miles run by other runners too.”

Richard O’Brien

Running is a funny sport. It can be intense and challenging or relaxing and soul-soothing, but there’s no question that occasionally, we hit a mental running wall that isn’t just reserved for mile 22 of a marathon.