Manotick Backyard Ultra

The Manotick Backyard Ultra returns to Ottawa, Ontario on October 3rd for its second year as a formidable endurance race in the region. Starting at the iconic 692 Coffee and Bar, this event will wind through the historic town of Manotick, incorporating both road and trail running. Each loop challenges participants with bridges over streams, runs through picturesque parks, and tarmac underfoot.
Race morning brings a cool autumn atmosphere to the area; temperatures hover around 11 degrees Celsius, feeling much like that crisp early October air. The humidity is at about 76%, making for slightly damp conditions but not stifling. A gentle breeze of approximately 10.2 kilometers per hour can be expected, adding an element of chill as runners navigate through the course.
This endurance race emphasizes physical and mental grit over speed; there's no second place or finish line—just a test of who has what it takes to endure the loop longest. The event offers both competitive and casual routes: the 5K for those looking to push their limits, and the Family 1K for all ages and skill levels. Fifty percent of the registration fee from the family race will support CHEO Children's Hospital - The Griffin Bell Golden Endowment Fund.
The course venue includes a mix of road and trail running, with notable features such as bridges over streams, runs through parks, and stretches on tarmac. Starting at 7:00 AM (not chip timed), runners can expect the ultra loop to begin first followed by the 5K race starting at 8:10 AM, both not timed events. The Family 1km Race will kick off later in the morning, starting at 9:10 AM.
Race day weather conditions predict an average temperature of 11.4 degrees Celsius with a slight chill due to humidity levels around 76%. A light breeze should be expected throughout the race course.