Death at DuPuis (A Backyard Event)

Death at DuPuis (A Backyard Event), hosted by the Athletic Soul Foundation, returns to Canal Point, Florida on February 6th, offering runners a unique challenge that echoes Big's Backyard in Tennessee. This event is not just a race but an homage to Laz’s original concept and supports the local Loxahatchee chapter of FTA (Florida Trail Association). The race takes place within the DuPuis Management Area, where participants will navigate a 4.1667-mile loop starting at precisely 8:00 am on that morning.
On race day in Canal Point, runners can expect to start their journey amidst firm and slightly soft trail conditions under moderate UV exposure levels typical for early February weather. The area offers stunning natural beauty with numerous ponds, wet prairies, cypress domes, pine flatwoods, and remnants of the Everglades marsh, providing a picturesque backdrop against which participants will push themselves to see who can complete the loop on time while receiving warnings at three, two, and one minute before each hour. The race continues until only one runner remains standing or all choose to stop.
Death at DuPuis has been running for several years as part of Florida’s Backyard series, drawing runners from across the state eager to emulate Big's backyard experience in Tennessee while supporting trail maintenance efforts through donations collected during the event. This year marks another iteration of this challenging race that raises awareness and funds for local conservation efforts.
The DuPuis Management Area offers a diverse landscape with miles of hiking trails, equestrian paths, and graded vehicle roads, setting an ideal stage for runners to face their limits. The course is marked by its firm yet slightly soft trail surface, ensuring participants must balance endurance with the terrain's unique characteristics as they loop through this expansive natural area.
Runners can expect cool temperatures in early February, typically ranging between 50°F and 72°F during race hours, alongside moderate UV conditions that might necessitate sun protection. The weather is generally dry but carries a slight risk of precipitation; humidity levels are usually around 68%, making for comfortable running with adequate hydration.