Lakou Backyard Ultra

The Lakou Backyard Ultra is a community-focused endurance event scheduled to begin on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Spruce Grove, Alberta. Part of the River’s Edge Running Series, the race follows the traditional backyard ultra format, where participants must complete a 6.7 km loop every hour. The event is hosted on a private property, emphasizing a "gathering place" atmosphere, and is entirely volunteer-run to support Olive Tree Projects, a non-profit operating in Haiti.

The race operates under strict "Last Man Standing" rules. Each participant must be at the starting line precisely when the bell rings at the top of every hour. Failure to start or finish a lap within the 60-minute window results in immediate disqualification. This mental and physical challenge continues until only one runner remains to complete a final solo loop. The course is situated on rural terrain, providing a natural and rugged backdrop for the competitors.

Spruce Grove is located within the Edmonton Metropolitan Region, known for its extensive trail networks and active outdoor community. The city serves as a hub for endurance athletes in Parkland County, benefiting from the nearby river valley and diverse parklands. Events like the Lakou Backyard Ultra leverage this local passion for running to drive international impact, specifically supporting maternal and neonatal healthcare initiatives in Haiti. The grassroots nature of the race ensures that the majority of funds raised go directly toward the beneficiary's mission.

Participants are responsible for their own "crewing" and nutrition between laps, though the backyard setting encourages a supportive environment among runners and volunteers. The fundraising goal for the 2026 event is set at $5,000, with an active leaderboard tracking individual contributions. For technical questions regarding the course layout or the series' other events, race director Bryan Wallace can be reached through the official series website.