The BACKYARD Genesis returns to Lake Wales, Florida on October 31st, inviting runners from across the region for a unique endurance challenge that tests both physical and mental limits. The event is set in a local backyard environment with specific rules: participants must complete a loop of exactly 4.167 miles every hour without any aid or pacing during each lap. This standardized distance ensures fairness as competitors strive to outlast one another until only the final runner remains standing.
BACKYARD Ultra Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $150.00
On race morning, temperatures are expected around an average of 23.8°C with winds blowing at approximately 12.6 km/h and humidity levels at about 77%. The typical weather pattern indicates minimal rainfall in October, making for relatively dry trail conditions on hard surfaces throughout the event duration. Race day will see a mix of sunshine and mild temperatures, creating an environment that is neither too harsh nor overly forgiving. The BACKYARD Genesis has been building momentum since its inception as an endurance-focused charity event. Runners are drawn to this unique format not just for personal achievement but also because part of the proceeds benefit local causes in Lake Wales. Over the years, it has become a significant community event where participants and spectators alike rally around shared goals. The course itself is centered on 14248 Camp Mack Rd., featuring repeated loops that must be completed precisely at the top of each hour without any external assistance once the bell rings signaling start times for new laps. Runners can set up personal spaces near the finish line but are strictly governed by rules regarding aid and pacing during active loop runs. Registration for the BACKYARD Genesis is available online via https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=138639 with an entry fee of $150.00 per runner. Participants should be prepared to provide their own support on course or through a designated crew during breaks between loops. Bib pickup will take place at the race venue from October 27th until October 30th, where all runners must confirm attendance and collect necessary materials for race day. On event morning, participants are advised to arrive early enough to park vehicles nearby and set up personal spaces according to provided guidelines on site maps. The start location is located precisely at 14248 Camp Mack Rd., Lake Wales, Florida. Runners of all ages who meet the minimum requirements can participate. It's crucial for first-time attendees to familiarize themselves with race rules beforehand and ensure they have adequate supplies and gear suited for a multi-hour endurance event. The BACKYARD Genesis in Lake Wales offers runners an unparalleled opportunity to test their limits while contributing to local causes through entry fees. With its unique format, this 24-hour ultramarathon stands out as both a personal challenge and community celebration on October 31st, Florida, United States.
Races Offered
BACKYARD Ultra ( 4.167 mile loop )
Oct 31, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6.7K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$150.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Lake Wales.
thermostatTemperature
19.6° / 28.0°
wb_sunnyFeels like
20.3° / 28.5°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 52m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.1 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
12.6 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
High
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.8)
humidity_mid
Humidity
77.5%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:27
nightlight
Sunset
18:56
About Lake Wales
Learn more about the host city, Lake Wales.
Lake Wales is a small city in eastern Polk County, Florida. The city is in the middle of a long, narrow region known as the Lake Wales Ridge. The Lake Wales Ridge was the first part of the Florida Peninsula to rise above sea level, beginning as a series of small sandy islands not unlike the Florida Keys today. It is a unique environment from its surrounding and home to several endemic species, such as the gopher tortoise and scrub jay. The city of Lake Wales lies at the southern foot of Iron Mountain—the second-highest point on the Florida Peninsula at 295 ft (90 m)—and is home to famous Bok Tower Gardens and its Singing Tower. Near the center of town lies Lake Wailes. The city is small, but much of the rural area extending east and southeast of town is considered as part of Lake Wales and included in this guide.
