LATR Backyard Ultra

The LATR Backyard Ultra returns to Indianola, Iowa on September 26th, challenging runners with a unique format that tests endurance and mental fortitude over the course of an entire day or longer. Participants gather at Lake Ahquabi State Park for this unconventional race where they run one-mile loops around Lake Ahquabi every hour until only one runner remains.
Race morning starts early as temperatures hover between 15.6°C and 26.6°C, with a typical humidity of 65.6%. Runners should expect light precipitation at the start due to an average rainfall of 1.6mm in September, though conditions are generally sunny for most of the day, allowing runners to complete their laps under clear skies. The UV index is moderate at 5.0, and winds typically blow at a steady pace of around 11.7km/h.
The LATR Backyard Ultra has been an annual event since its inception in Indianola, drawing dedicated athletes from across the region who push themselves to run endless laps around Lake Ahquabi until only one person is left standing. Over the years, it has become a celebrated tradition among ultrarunners and casual participants alike, attracting hundreds of runners each year.
The course for the LATR Backyard Ultra follows the Lake Trail at Lake Ahquabi State Park in Indianola, Iowa, where runners complete 4.167-mile loops every hour around the lake counter-clockwise. The trail is a mix of dirt and gravel with mature timber providing cover along much of its route, offering scenic views of the water but also challenging terrain due to roots, rocks, and uneven surfaces.
Runners start and finish each lap at the beach shelter house in Lake Ahquabi State Park, where they can receive aid such as food, fluids, and rest. Water stations are set up near the midpoint of the loop and at the starting corral for easy access during laps. Runners must adhere to strict rules regarding pace (finishing within 60 minutes) and course etiquette.
The registration fee for participating in this event is $90.00 per runner, with no race cap or end time set, allowing runners to compete as long as they can maintain the required speed. Registration opens on https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=131791, and early packet pickup takes place at Lake Ahquabi State Park from 5:00-7:00PM on Friday, September 25th.
On race day, Saturday, September 26th, packets can be picked up starting at 6:00AM at the beach shelter house located at 16510 118th Ave., Indianola. Runners must also ensure they bring a headlamp if planning to continue past sundown; additional lighting is provided along the course but visibility will still be low during nighttime hours.
The LATR Backyard Ultra | fee=$90.00
Starting at 6:00AM on race day, runners gather for their first lap around Lake Ahquabi in Indianola, Iowa. The event remains open to any runner who meets the age requirement of being 18 years or older and is prepared physically and mentally for an endurance challenge.
LATR Backyard Ultra participants are drawn back year after year not just by the unique race format but also by the sense of community and shared achievement among runners in Indianola. The event's blend of scenic beauty, challenging course conditions, and supportive atmosphere makes it a must-attend for ultrarunners looking to test their limits alongside fellow endurance enthusiasts.