The Last Cowboy Backyard

The Last Cowboy Backyard returns to O'Neill, Nebraska on November 7th, offering a unique ultrarunning experience for serious athletes and enthusiasts alike. This event is the first of its kind in Nebraska, bringing together runners from across the region for an official Backyard Ultra competition that challenges participants with each lap starting and ending at the community center located at 501 S 4th St in O'Neill.
The race venue features a flat out-and-back course along the Cowboy Trail. The trail's surface is straightforward without technical elements, making it ideal for runners looking to maximize their mileage over long periods of time. On race morning, participants can expect clear visibility and manageable conditions at the community center where they will start each lap on the hour.
Since its inception in 2025, THE LAST COWBOY BACKYARD has quickly become a significant event within Nebraska’s ultrarunning community. Runners gather annually to push their limits and celebrate the spirit of endurance running. The competition supports local traditions and fosters camaraderie among runners who come together for this unique challenge.
The course itself is an out-and-back route on the flat Cowboy Trail, which starts and finishes at the O'Neill Community Center located in downtown O’Neill near the intersection with 5th Street. Each lap measures precisely 4.17 miles and begins every hour on the hour from sunrise until there's only one runner left standing. The trail is well-defined without any significant elevation changes or technical obstacles, allowing participants to focus solely on their pace and endurance.
Weather conditions for race day are expected to be mild with temperatures ranging between 35°F and 48°F at dawn, gradually warming up as the sun rises above 60°F by mid-morning. Humidity levels will hover around 72%, providing a comfortable environment despite potential wind speeds of approximately 10 mph from the north-northeast direction.