Suffolk Back Yard Ultra Festival

Summer Suffolk Backyard Ultra Event: A Competitive Endurance Challenge
The Summer Suffolk Backyard Ultra, held annually at High Lodge Thetford Forest in Suffolk, is renowned for its grueling yet rewarding nature. This highly competitive event challenges runners to complete a 4.167-mile loop every hour until only one participant remains who can finish their final "Yard" within the designated time limit.
The course winds through picturesque forest areas with wide and flat paths that are mostly gravel or grass, making it suitable for fast-paced laps despite featuring just one small hill along the route. The terrain is firm underfoot with good drainage, ensuring a consistent surface throughout the race day.
Participants can choose from several entry options: the full ultra event, a 6-hour option, and a 12-hour option. These shorter races cater to those who want to experience the unique format without committing to the entire duration or aiming for specific time targets within their comfort zone. The main event offers a £500 prize for the winner in 2027 (up from £1000 in previous years), reflecting the growing prestige of this challenging competition.
Elite runners who have performed exceptionally well in past Backyard events can enjoy significant discounts on entry fees, ranging from 25% to 75%, or even a free place if they've won an official race within the last two years. These incentives are designed to attract top-tier competitors and enhance the overall competitive spirit.
Race day activities begin at 8 AM with setup for runners and crews. The race briefing takes place at 11:30 AM, followed by the start of the event at noon sharp. Runners must adhere strictly to a set schedule, completing each loop within an hour or facing disqualification if they fail to return before the next round begins.
The aid station is located at the start/finish area and provides essential supplies such as hot and cold water for crews and basic snacks like pot noodles and pasta pots until 8 PM on Sunday. After this time, a cooking station becomes available where runners can prepare or enjoy pre-made hot meals cooked by organizers every few hours.
Camping facilities are provided free of charge within the event grounds but must comply with size restrictions to accommodate up to 350 participants comfortably. Crews and runners should be mindful of fire regulations and refrain from using stoves in tents, adhering instead to designated cooking areas when available.
High Lodge Cafes and Shops offer additional dining options for those seeking variety beyond what’s provided at the event site itself. Portaloos and urinals are situated near both camping zones and will remain clean throughout the duration of the race.
For safety and organization purposes, runners must be present in the starting corral when the bell sounds to begin each loop. No crew or spectator support is allowed inside this area until after the start whistle has been blown. Additionally, headtorches are mandatory from 9 PM onwards as visibility decreases during later hours of competition.
The Summer Suffolk Backyard Ultra promises an unforgettable experience for endurance athletes and spectators alike, blending rigorous physical challenge with camaraderie among competitors and a vibrant forest setting that enhances every lap's beauty and significance.
For more detailed information on entry requirements, discounts, parking arrangements, camping rules, and other essential aspects of the event, please visit our official website or contact us directly for further assistance.