The VICTORY LANE BACKYARD 12 returns to Bussey, Iowa on August 29th, inviting endurance runners from across the country for a unique and challenging event. Participants must complete a lap every hour, with laps measuring exactly 4.167 miles in length. The race continues until the 12-hour mark or when only one runner remains standing, making it a test of both physical stamina and mental fortitude.
On race morning at 5:30 AM, runners will gather near Victory Lane for their pre-race meeting followed by packet pickup at the barn located on Victory Lane. The trail conditions are firm but slightly soft, offering some grassy stretches alongside gravel paths that may have standing water due to recent rains. Runners should expect uneven terrain with roots and rocks throughout the course.
Since its inception in 2015, VICTORY LANE BACKYARD 12 has become a staple event for ultrarunners seeking both personal challenge and community camaraderie. Each year sees an increase of around 30 participants from all over the United States joining this unique race format. While there is no official charity associated with the race, many runners raise funds independently to support local causes or organizations.
The VICTORY LANE BACKYARD 12 unfolds on a grass and gravel trail that winds through open fields near Bussey, Iowa. The course layout loops back around Victory Lane every hour as participants aim for their next lap checkpoint at precisely the top of each hour. Runners can expect firm but slightly soft terrain with possible standing water from recent rainfall, adding to the challenge.
Race day typically sees temperatures ranging between 65°F and 80°F in Bussey during late August, accompanied by high humidity around 75% RH and moderate winds averaging about 10 mph. The UV index is expected to be at a level of 7 (High), requiring runners to protect themselves from sun exposure.
Backyard Ultra
Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $75.00
Registration for the VICTORY LANE BACKYARD 12 opens online via https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134249, where participants can choose between three pricing tiers that increase with time as follows: $65 by May 1st and then $70 by August 1st. Early registration is highly recommended to secure one's spot in this popular race.
Participants are required to attend the mandatory pre-race meeting at 7:15 AM on Saturday, along with early packet pickup which takes place Friday morning from 6:00 AM until noon. Crews may also begin setting up their areas near Victory Lane starting that same day. It’s important for runners and crews alike to familiarize themselves with the rules regarding crew access and responsibilities.
The start location is at 2308 Victory Lane, where participants will loop around a barn every hour in accordance with race regulations. All runners must ensure they complete their lap within an hour from when it began or face disqualification. Participants aged 16 years old or above are eligible to compete; those under this age require parental permission and supervision.
The VICTORY LANE BACKYARD 12, taking place in Bussey, Iowa on August 29th, is a testament to the spirit of endurance running as well as community support. The race’s unique format challenges runners not just physically but mentally, pushing them beyond their comfort zones over twelve continuous hours.
