Aspirations of Big's

Another Race With No Pre-Determined End

My 5th Backyard Ultra | Ultramarathon #083

I have had a dream about getting into Big's Backyard Ultra for a little while now. If you have been following my blog you realized that I dropped out of my last attempt [stupidly] earlier this year back in April (The Game race report). In an effort to save myself for an upcoming A-race at the time: Cocodona 250, I withdrew myself we only 3 runners left after 30 yards even though physically nothing was wrong. I was completely fine with this effort and decision for the longest time, even after running Cocodona since I did manage to have a good performance there as well (Cocodona race report). Later on into the fall and the fact that Big's was upcoming with the entrants list was published and the hype was going around I started to kick myself for not giving it my all at The Game back in April since that was a golden coin race which did give direct entry into Big's itself (The World Championship of Backyard Ultras). Following along with the Big's weekend and tuning into the Facebook Live feed every hour I began to realize, looking back, how big of a mistake I had made not giving it my full effort in order to get into this coveted race. I could not spoil my next opportunity.

My renewed focus for this race was in part due to the fact the entry process for Big's Backyard was revamped due to the exploding popularity in the Backyard style of racing. It now consists of a complicated bracket system for each respective country to get into the Team satellite Team Championship in the even years (i.e. 2022) which then potentially allows entry, via performance, into Big's Individual Championship in the odd years (i.e. 2023). This is a very simple one sentence explanation - if you are truly interested look up the process and the full up-to-date "At Large" list on https://backyardultra.com/.  In summary, it is now a lot harder to get into Big's itself due to the popularity of the Backyard format.

Also if you have been following my blog you will notice that I love to race a lot and I will spare the details but essentially I did not know how I would be physically coming into this race given my prior two weekends of racing. Logistically I was dialed and ready - this would be my 5th attempt in the Backyard Ultra format. Mentally I was sound, this was a focus race for me and I was ready to go as long as it would take. The only slight question I had is how my body would hold up. Yes I was fit, but unsure how long I could sustain another big effort given the fatigue in my legs.

With the race starting on Friday morning I actually took off late Thursday afternoon to go pick up my bib and check in for the race, but most importantly to pick out my spot for my half-tent and my homebase for the event. Since it is a fairly short drive my our place I did not mind this and besides it would save me time in the morning since I had majority of my stuff set up and in place. I went home and got a good sleep. Friday morning I was ready and eager to get started. I stopped for my essential morning coffee on my hour drive back out to 7IL Ranch near Cat Spring, TX.  I arrived in the chill of the morning just prior to sunset with all the other participants scurrying around getting their own spots set up. I simply sat down enjoyed my coffee and basically got my shoes on. The sun started to peak around the horizon sheading some light onto the ranch in an array of orange and yellow hues of color. It was going to be a glorious sunny fall day in Texas. Then Rob Goyen, the race director, gathered everyone up for the pre-race brief and went over the exact rules of the Backyard. Since this was an official affiliate race for Big's the details were carefully explained for anyone whom had not been in a true Backyard format before.

Rob Goyen (Race Director) giving out the pre-race riefing.

The official Backyard Ultra rules.

The time was now here, the sound of 3 whistle blasts echoed down the row of runners tents and chairs. It was go time. All the runners gathered up in the starting corral and Rob ensured the corral was proper size to fit everyone for the race (this is one of the requirements of the Backyard). The last countdown was on and the field of 86 runners took off together with the excitement of the start running down the gravel road towards the ever rising sunset. Naturally it was not an all out start since this style of race is all abt pacing yourself for the long haul. Following the excitement of the crowd I did run the first loop in sub-40 minutes which was slightly faster than I wanted. The course was a simple lay out of a series of 3 long out & backs mostly on the gravel/jeep roads of the ranch along with some pasture trails mixed in. The course loop meant that we'd see all the runners at least once throughout the loop due to tall the turn around points. Overall it was around 85 feet of gain per loop so pretty flat and fast. After my first fast loop I tried to dial it back slightly and was aiming for a nice 41-43 minute loop that would give me a good amount of time off feet at end of each loop. I thought this strategy would be a good fit for me.

Starting corral, race start, 86 runners. Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.

Loop 1 start down the 7IL Ranch entrance road. Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.

There was literally zero clouds in the sky so it was a perfect sunny fall day out there. Going round and round out there on the roads with all the runners on the first few yards made the time fly by. There was a 72 year old man out there that completed 4 yards but then timed out on his 5th unfortunately. A couple of younger teenagers were also looking solid all day and ended up going into the ultra distance by officially completing their 7th yard which is 29.17 Mi. Truly inspirational to see runners like this pushing themselves in this unique format. One of the great aspects of the Backyard is you get to see all the runners start and finish each 4.1667 Mi yard and see the progression, or regression, as the event unfolds. Another runner story was I was running along side someone on an earlier loop, like the 4th or 5th and he had recognized me so we were chatting. He got to mentioning he was a short distance guy and had never run more than a 22 Mi long run before. I gave him a thumbs up every time after that cause I knew he was at his distance PB and was still going. He eventually finished off the 15th yard completing the 100k distance and earning the belt buckle that was up for grabs. This is just another testimonial story of this format is as one truly doesn't know how far they can go and with the help of the trail community you just never know. 

Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.

Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.

The sunset just after the 8th hour and the conclusion of finishing up over 50 km milestone. This meant there was a fair amount of runners dropping as for some this was probably their goal of the day. The darkness crept in and the temperature slowly starting to dive down towards the 60s, then 50s, and eventually into the 40s late into the night, or early next morning, however you want to spin it. Before the start of the 2nd day, the completion of the 15th yard signified the 100 km milestone and another large group of runners called it good and the field size dropped again down to the final 15 runners for the start of the 16th yard prior to midnight.

Like the gradual drop in temperatures throughout the moonlit night, the runner count also slowly dripped down towards the final 5. This happened right as the sun was about to rise to signify the completion of 24 yards or hours. 100 miles complete and there was only the 5 runners that answered the whistles for the start of the 26th yard to continue on and battle it out. Luckily I was still one and kept my motivation high by reminding myself I had to keep running before my crew and cheer squad (my family) would come out to the ranch and support me. I honestly did not know exactly what time they would be there so this did serve as added motivation for me in the back of my mind for sure.

Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.

It was around the mid-way through my 27th loop my family arrived and showed up to see me come in back to the corral. Coming back into sight our the start/finish area my 3 oldest daughters were there sitting on the fence gate awaiting me to come into sight. It instantly gave me a huge boost when I saw those little humans start to run down the ranch road to meet me. We all ran back to the corral and completed that loop. I went over and kissed my wife and said hi to our 4th and youngest daughter as well. I then got in my chair and kicked my feet up to rest.

My oldest 3 daughters greeting me on Saturday morning. Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.

The sun was finally breeching through the clouds as well warming the air up nicely. It had been a little overcast of a morning thus far, a contrast to yesterday when no clouds were found at all. My feet were really starting to hurt now, but oddly it was between loops where the pain seemed to reach my awareness level in my brain. Every time I would take the pressure off my feet and kick them up in my chair interloop I would get a feeling of small tingles and needles feeling on the bottom of my feet. What seemed backward to me is once I got back up out of my chair back on my feet again to run and got the first few steps underway of the next loop the feeling of pain would all but disappear to the point where I wouldn't even enter my mind until I was back into my chair again. I guess that was bittersweet of this, but clearly my feet were a little damaged by the constant dew from the long grass on the ranch of the pasture trail portion (see my foot/buckle picture at the end).

The final four. Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.
Back Left: Shawn Salyer - 3rd, 29 yards.
Left: Nick Petterson - 2nd, 32 yards.
Middle: Joel Hagaman - 4th, 28 yards.
Right: Trevor Meding (me) - winner, 33 yards

With my amazing support crew now in my camp I sent back off with even more confidence and another slight boost. The first out and back of the course went all the away down the main entrance of the 7IL Ranch road and so we actually ran back by our tents and chairs and so my kids were there to give me high fives and cheers as I went by after the first 1.4 Mi mark heading out towards the pasture trail portion. My other 3 competitors at the time appeared to be abetting their time and just slogging through the loops. I honestly don't know how they felt but I did feel like I had an advantage as I was feeling much better after my family showed up, and them just being there was huge for me mentally. Next thing I know we are lining up for the 29th yard and all of a sudden there was only 3 us standing there. I glanced over and Joel Ha was not getting up coming towards the corral. The countdown ticked on....and we set off now down to the 3 of us. 

My loops were slowly getting a little faster again remaining pushing the 42 minutes mark at this point which was giving me a still nice 15-17 minute break at the end of each loop. I was getting psyched to be running again and feeling good, hopefully putting a little pressure on my fellow runners by not showing any signs of slowing down at this point. We got back into the corral for the 30th yard with the 3 of us standing there. Fist bumps were given, and then Shawn Salyer said "good luck guys" and did not take off instead decided his event was over. With that we were down to the final 2 runners, myself and Nick Petterson. We had survived 29 yards (120.83 Mi) as we whittled down the field from 86 to survive to the final 2, and now it was a race with the stake of the win, the belt, and the prize purse up for grabs.

I managed to hang on and finish off the 33rd yard and win the Texas B.M.F. (Last Human Standing) event. I kind of knew half way through that last loop I was about to secure the win. On the long out and back into the pasture trails I was ahead of Nick and figured I would see him once I turned around at the far cone. However he was not there and was further back than expected based on the past few loops, I did not see him at all as I made my way back. Around the new corner peering past the trees in the field I still did not see him coming. At this point I had that thought of "this is it" come into my mind, but tried to quiet that thought...just in case. Then turning the corner through the fence opening into the third and final out and back portion I knew it was over, as Nick was not there yet and would not have time to complete the loop even if he was in sight at this point. A mere mile left and I would complete the 33rd yard and claim victory.

Coming into the finish corral. Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.

My 3 oldest daughters (Addison, Lily, & Paisley) were all there about the fence gate waiting for me 0.2 Mi from the finish corral. I could hear them faintly yelling through the warm afternoon air that I had won and were jumping up and down. A big smile came across my face as I trotted up to my kids. We then all ran side by each other and headed in to make it official. I glanced over and saw Nick there with his wife and gave him a nod of admiration and respect. I came up to the corral and making it official to have Rob Goyen there awaiting me with the winners belt. He presented me first with a buckle handcrafted by Elevation Culture (everyone that completed at least 100 km/ 15 yards earned one of these). Then he gave me a big hug, congratulating me and passed me the overall winner's prize: a giant custom made belt buckle for this event (by Undisputed Belts). I took this and with a large release of happiness, emotion, and I think pure relief I held it above my head and just let out a yell of "Yesssssss". I had come to the ranch to win and I had achieved my goal. Finally Rob pulled out the prize money and handed it over, a nice cool wad of cash that will help serve our family in shopping for the holidays.

Buckle presentation. Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.

Overall Winner [Belt] Buckle. Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.

After a moment of celebration I went over and thanked Nick for the assist and presented him the Texas winner's belt. (Technically I won both belts, but I did not see use in having 2 giant belts and so as a gesture of his effort and great performance I gave the other belt to Nick). We gave a hug and got a couple pictures. I wandered over to my chair and sat down ready to get off my feet. Taking off my socks was such a relief. My wife gave me a funny look at the sight of my one foot and asked if it hurt. Rob somehow got a glance as I took off my second sock and said "Trevor, is that your foot? Jeremiah get over here". With that I popped my feet up for a final picture for Jeremiah (TROT Photographer) holding my buckle in between my beat up feet.

My feet hurt like they have run 137 MI or so. Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.

I asked my wife for one more thing before her and the kids took off back home. I had a request of been driven over to the main washroom facility where I would have a nice warm shower to rinse off the ranch dirt and dust. This was a great feeling to get all cleaned up before heading home myself. Once I was in warm dry clothing I emerged from the washroom and found the ranch was nearly empty already. TROT had cleaned up their gear and had headed home to their families already as well. My wife and kids pulled up in the van and I gave my wife a kiss as they headed home. I only had minimal left to pack away in my car as my family took most of it home for me. The hour drive home was a slow solo trek as I stopped a couple time to stretch out my legs. It also gave me some quiet time for me to reflect on what I had just achieved. 

Time for a couple of zero days now...

Race Progression

.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ......   0 yards | 0.00 Mi completed - 86 runners toed the start line

.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ........   7 yards  | 29.17 Mi completed - 58 runners remain (*marathon/ultra distance)

.......... .......... .......... .......... ....   8 yards | 33.33 Mi completed - 44 runners remain (*50 km distance)

.......... .......... .......  12 yards | 50.00 Mi completed - 27 runners remain

.......... .....   15 yards | 62.50 Mi completed - 15 runners remain (*100 km distance)

..........   17 yards | 70.83 Mi completed - top 10 runners remain

.....   24 yards | 100.00 Mi completed - top 5 runners remain

....   27 yards | 112.50 Mi completed - 4 runners remain

...   29 yards | 120.83 Mi completed - 3 runners remain

..   30 yards | 125.00 Mi completed - 2 runners remain

.   33rd yard - both runners started the loop, 1 dropped & 1 finished (137.51 Mi completed).

Results & Random Data

My own data analysis post-race of all my 33 loops in terms of time vs. interloop time. You can see the visual on the graph shows how I slowed slightly in the night hours as the temperature dropped, but then I started to get back to original pace as it warmed back up.

UltraSignup Results: https://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=83084#id1222957

My STRAVA activity: https://www.strava.com/activities/6285733756

My 83rd ultramarathon run -- completed 81/83 (97.59%).

My 27th 100 Mi(+) ultra -- completed 25/27 (92.59%).

My 5th Backyard Ultra format -- I have 2 wins now.

33 yards is my new Backyard PB -- prior was 30 yards.

I have run a total of 672.69 Mi on the 7IL Ranch since moving to Texas and running with TROT at the end of 2017 -- this represents my 4th most popular run location thus far. More to come out at the ranch?...tbd.

My goal for this race was to put up a 35+ yards performance and get myself a decent spot on the "At-Large" list for Team Canada in next year 2022 Big's Team Championship. I think I may have squeaked into the top10 at the moment but the qualifying window is open all the way until next August, so there is lots of movement to occur yet. Not sure if this performance will be enough, I may just have to find myself another Backyard next year sometime. To be determined...

My Gear Used

• kit (top): rabbit  (rabbitELITEtrail '21 team singlet), Trail Racing Over Texas (Team TROT singlet), a couple various long sleeves during the night loops
• kit (bottom): rabbit 3" FKT shorts
• arm sleeves: rabbit
• jackets: rabbit let 'er zip hoodie
• gloves: rabbit (BOCO gear)
• hats: rabbit (BOCO gear)
• Gear bags: Victory Sportdesign (Kodiak)
• Lights: a NATHAN Halo Fire headlamp (did not use too much due to the moonlight being bright enough to run with).
• Flasks: NATHAN 20oz handheld (x2)
• Socks: Drymax (x2 pairs)
• Shoes: HOKA ONE ONE Challenger ATR 7 (test pair)
• Anti-Friction Body Lube: Trail Toes
• Watch: Garmin fēnix 6X Pro Solar (finished at 50% battery still = right on track for the 66 hrs total battery life in full GPS activity mode)
• Eyewear: goodr (Sorry, Not Sorry (But Actually Sorry) edition)
• Chair: Magellan Outdoors Oversize Anti-Gravity Lounger
• Coolers: x1 YETI & x1 Coleman (with a bunch of goodies, snacks, and some refreshing Athletic Brewing Co. beers)

My Backyard Essential Tips

*originally posted on my  blog in 2021-Apr

 1.   Maximize the time off your feet.

2.   Get a your base camp set up as close as possible to the starting corral.

3.   Ensure you have a good chair with your own preferred snacks/drinks located directly within reaching distance when sitting down. 

 4.   Get as much sleep as you can.

5.   Have your watch settings dialed in ahead of time.

6.   Have a great support crew.

*for detailed explanation of each of these 6 points refer back to the original post (The Game race report).

Quick shuteye interloop. I did mange a few 10 minute naps. Photo: JJustis Photography | Trail Racing Over Texas.

---- ----- ----- ----- -----

Thank you for following along. 

Next Up:  Brazos Bend 100 Mi (Dec-04)

The Game Backyard Ultra

Another Backyard Rumble!

Short Version, (#TJM style) race report Haiku:

The Game Backyard Ultra

Round and Round We Go.

One Hundred Twenty Five Miles. Shit!

Cocodona in Two Weeks.

*This was read on Ten Junk Miles Podcast | 2021-06-04 | Episode: Gang Show 154 - Alex Bleiweiss

https://tenjunkmiles.libsyn.com/website/gang-show-154-alex-bleiweiss

Long Version, more details:

I have been lucky enough to have done this format a couple times before:

• 2018 The Game - Last Runner Standing | 48.91 mi,  6th "DNF" (not official "Backyard Rules")
• 2019 The Game Backyard Ultra - Race Report | 23 yards, 95.87 mi, 1st overall
• 2020 Quarantine Backyard Ultra (Virtual) - Race Report | 26 yards, 109.39 mi, top41 "DNF"

I have been anticipating coming back to join Spectrum Trail Racing and give this another go. This time it was different. This year Spectrum had an extra carrot for us silly enough to sign up - a Golden Coin - which is the ticket/invite to the infamous World Championship of Backyard Ultras put on at Laz's farm every October: Big's Backyard Ultra. Not going to lie, this was a big goal of mine heading into this one to get myself an invite to Big's by attempting to be the last person standing.

Saturday morning we got up pretty early from our house in Sugar Land. We packed up the entire family and all my gear and off we went. A short mix up at the local Starbucks attempting to get our coffee caused a little extra time getting on the road, but that's life. In the end both myself and my wife Katie were able to get our caffeine for the 1h 20m drive out to Columbus, Texas. I had been out to the ranch the evening before after work in order to secure a spot for our tent (aka base camp) for the race. As we parked I started unloading and hauling the remainder of my gear and cooler full of food over to our claimed area right near the start finish arch. Katie was getting the kids fully dressed and into some warmer clothes as the air was crisp and the wind kept the air temperature cool.

Sitting in my nice comfy chair I was just chilin' and hanging out with the kids keeping myself relaxed. The race nerves were present but also not really because I knew the race wouldn't really start until about 24 hours later. Around 07:45 the Race Directors (Mallory & Jason Brooks) gathered the crowd of runners and started the race brief which also included a brief history lesson of the Ranch 88 from the owner himself.

Pre-race brief. Photo: Katie Meding

Our kids were getting ancy just sitting there trying to stay warm in the cool Texas morning. Typical kids as we had only been outside for like 20 minutes at most and they were already complaining wanting to go warm up in the van before seeing me off to start. The countdown was on, the runners were called into starting corral, as the final minute was now here. I kissed all five of my girls one at a time, and then ducked under the rope and into the starting area. 08:00 and the cow bell was run nice and loud. Off we went!

The course was a lollipop with about a 200 m chute straight down from the start/finish where it opened up to the left down into the trees and to the right were it started off into the pasture. The loop was pretty nice and it was a complete circle where we'd go around the loop and then back up the chute to the finish line. There was a nice mix of open pasture field (true Texas ranch style), trails through the canopy of tress, and couple small dried up creek bed crossings, and animal carved paths throughout the ranch. The trail was quite rough and very crude, which made for footing placement to be precise as to not twist or jack your ankle.

The Game loop at Ranch 88. Photo: STRAVA

As I went around the first loop I was stuck in the middle of a conga line on this ranch animal made singletrack. This kept my pace under control and allowed me to absorb the sights and sounds of the loop. I tried to notice everything I could about the loop as I went around the first time. I was mentally noting the mid point of the loop and a couple of the major points. The group I was running with this first loop settled into decent pace that ended up popping us out into the last portion of the pasture within sight of the start/finish in the distance around 41 minutes into the hour. Another 4 minutes later and I was there coming back up the chute to the finish arch. I thought it was a slow pace, but in fact it was the perfect pace! I was aiming for 45 minute loops, which would give me that 15 minute interloop time. My crew of girls were all there to greet me as I kicked my feet up and just relaxed in my chair and sipped some water.

The 3 minute warning was called out and the runners slowly gathered in the corral. I waited in my chair sitting there a mere 10 feet away, but once the 1 minute warning came I got up and got myself in position. The unique aspect of The Game here is that either Mallory or Jason, whomever was exactly at the start at the time, would flip the coin to see which direction we would be running. So it was left to chance each loop whether it was clockwise or counter-clockwise. This added a slight nice element of chance into the loop later on. In the beginning it did not seem to matter much I thought. At one point it did seem like we ran a clockwise direction for like 6 times in a row - not sure the statistical probability on that, but it is certainly low.

Start of a loop. Photo: Spectrum Trail Racing.

Very quickly after the first couple loops the groups and paces were evenly divided among the large group of nearly 90 runners out there who had started. By the forth or fifth loop I was running closer to the upper portion of the pace groups, but not overreaching myself. I had found myself a comfortable pace that allowed me to come in each time around 41-43 minutes with some consistency. It was working nicely. As the loop direction changed sometimes it would take a bit for me to keep on the target pace I had, but sooner or later I got it back. 

My 2nd daughter Lily, running with my up the final
chute into the finish of the loop. Photo: Kaite Meding.

Each time I would get back in sight of the finish area, which was a nice large open area of the pasture that the start/finish chute lead up, my daughters were there running around looking for me amongst the other runners. Often I could here them yelling "there he is....Daddy!" - it was my favorite part of the loop every time. Around 14:00 or so my family was headed out on the short drive back home. I said goodbye and informed them I would see them tomorrow morning, which would be at the 24 hour mark or more. But admittedly I was a little bummed they were leaving for the day as they truly did give me a boost coming in from each loop. On the flip side I was committed to running long as they were my ride home too and wouldn't be back till at least Sunday morning.

The days loops kept ticking by and the number of runners was very slowly dropping off, but honestly not as fast as I thought it might be. Coming into the 12th yard, which would signify the 50 mile mark, there was nearly 50 runners still standing, I think 49 to be exact if I recall, a very good showing for the race. At this point I knew The Game would be going to 24+ for sure, just based on the amount of people left. I was still up near the front in terms of pace, but there was a decent group of 5-7 people who'd still be running in front of me at this point, doing faster loops.

The sunset came at around 19:49 I believe so it was almost exactly when I was finishing off my first 50 miles into the event. for the next loop I took only my headlamp as I thought I wouldn't need a lot of light just yet. I've been using NATHAN headlamps for years now so I am used to them. Running in the open areas and pastures I didn't even turn on my headtorch at first, but as soon as we ducked under the canopy of the tree cover it was super dark and a light was required. Arriving back at my base camp completing loop 13 I knew I wanted more light out there in the darkness of the corners of the ranch. I got out my newly purchased kogalla RA adventure light. I put it around my waist and lined up for the next loop. I've done a couple test runs with this light prior (I purchased it for my upcoming Cocodona 250), but utilizing it during a race to test it out further was a great opportunity. The moment I got out and running I turned on my light and bam....the span of 120 degrees of brightness shined in front of me. I literally ran this loop 4 minutes faster with the new light guiding me through the night. I felt so much more confident with the amount of lighting in front of me. The next few laps I received a few comments and inquires about my light as some of the other runners seemed to enjoy it as well. Every once in awhile I'd find one or two runner right behind me for majority of the loop, most likely enjoying the addition light in front.

I have done a lot of night running in my relatively short ultra running career. My usual low during overnight ultras happens around 03:00-06:00 right when those natural circadian rhythms kick in from the build up of natural melatonin rises to tell the body to sleep. I am quite aware of it coming, and often try to stave it off with caffeine and by simply just continuing to move forward. The extra light from the kogalla RA seemed to really help and may have aided me in not getting as drowsy as I usually due in the wee hours of the morning. Coming around to the sunrise at our last loop with lights was yard 23, and there was still 5 runners standing in The Game. It was just beginning...

Finishing the 24th yard - 100 miles.

I texted my wife and asked when they were coming back on one of my breaks. I asked for some hashbrowns from McDonald's when they did - I love me some potatoes late into ultras. After the 24th yard and completing 100 miles we lined up for the next loop and only 4 were now on the line. The other runner had just completed his first 100 mile and called it a day. I can't recall exactly when the 4th place runner dropped out but I think it was after 26(?) cause if I recall correctly my family had just arrived, which was just before the 10:00 loop - which would have been yard 27. Either way there about I got my beloved hashbrowns from my amazing crew, family, and supporters. I gobbled them down and was ready for more miles. I was feeling good and still ticking by at a good pace so I thought now down to the final 3 runners.

Loop 28 something happened suddenly where I lost a couple minutes on my overall loop time, nothing super significant, but it felt harder. Then all of a sudden loop 29 it got slightly slower again (and was my slowest yard yet overall). I discussed my difficulties with my wife when I returned again and to put my feet. She reassured me and simply told me to rest. I heeded that advice and attempted to close my eyes. Too soon I was back on my feet as the 1 minute warning was called out. As usual I awaited for about 30 seconds before getting out of my chair and stumbling over to the corral and fist bumping my 2 competitors. Yard 30 had begun, and I was off with the thoughts in my head and y dwindling pace. I felt so slow and even took 3 walk breaks during the loop. I had only taken one significant walk break on each of the prior 29 loops, so I felt the slow drip of my body not wanting to keep the pace anymore. I let it get in my head.

Finishing a loop, pressing the lap on my Garmin. Photo: Jason Brooks, Spectrum Trail Racing.

I arrived back at base camp and kicked up my feet and starting chatting again with Katie, telling her, I think that it was over. I had come in in 0:48:43 so in reality I still had a full 11 minutes of rest time interloop, which in all honestly is a lot in these type of events, but I felt slow and could feel my pace slowing dropping 3 loops in a row now. I have to hand if to my wife, she said all the right things, and was being the best crew chief and supporter possible. I sat there being all pessimistic and told her I had thought it through. I got up for yard 31, lined up with Nick and Vincent gave our pre-loop fist bumps and then I sprinted off the line ahead of them. About 50 yards down the chute I stopped turned around and gave them each high fives as they went by informing them I was done and surrendering my effort in The Game. I was done after 30 yards complete and 125 miles officially run. I slowly returned to start/finish arch to a small crowd of applause from the few spectators still remaining, and of course both Mallory and Jason. I thanked everyone and went over to hug my wife and kids.

I have given up. My body had not failed me yet...and in the backyard if you are not willing to go until your body gives out on you, you will never find out how far you can go. I finished yard 30 with 11 minutes to spare for rest and still convinced myself I was done. Physically I know there was more there...how much...well we will have to wait to find out next time I line up in a backyard because on this day, my mind told me I was done, and I caved to that thought. There is no room for weakness in the backyard, especially in the mind of the runners. All weaknesses will eventually get exposed. That is why this format is such and intriguing and fun event.

Until the next time....

Cause there will be a next time.

My Tips for some success at your next Backyard Ultra  

*NOTE: results may vary, no guarantees*

 1.   Maximize the time OFF your feet.

• This is crucial if you want to maximize what you want to get out of yourself and test your limits at the backyard ultra format. This is tricky as it depends on pace and how you split your running time versus your interloop time. Either way, as soon as you arrive back to your base camp - get off your feet!

  

  Photo: Mallory Brooks, Spectrum Trail Racing.

   2.   Get a your base camp set up AS CLOSE AS POSSIBLE to the starting corral. 

• Also keep in mind vicinity to other amenities such as the porta-potties and/or the aid station table (if one if provided).
• Note that during the first 24 hours or so this is a crazy area of the race with my people and spectators potentially, so it will likely be loud and ruckus. However later on in these races people are very respectful and allow the then tired racers to get whatever minimal rest they can interloop.

  3.   Ensure you have a GOOD CHAIR with your own preferred snacks/drinks located directly within reaching distance when sitting down. 

• I suggest a cooler right next the chair acting as a table as well.
• This year I bought a anti-gravity incline chair (Magellan Outdoors) which was amazing! I recommend something like this to kick the feet up as high as possible between running loops.
• most ultras you may have been warned of "beware of the chair" but here in the backyard you must embrace the chair!

 4.   Get as much SLEEP as you can.

• Easier said than done, especially if you have not experienced long endurance events. Having run a few 200+ events now and a few other backyard formats I have learned to almost get myself to sleep as needed (not always the case).
• Part of my strategy of running 45 minute loops was to be able to have 15 minutes interloop: 10 minutes for sleep (or at least closed-eye resting), and 5 minutes to eat and whatever else as needed. During the night loops I got about 10 minutes of sleep for the majority from midnight till 5a.m.

5.   Have your watch settings dialed in ahead of time.

• Have all the settings worked out on your watch prior to the event. This sounds like a no-brainer but for an event like this you don't want to think about extra details like changing settings or worrying about your data.
• I use a Garmin fēnix 6X Pro Solar and I have my settings ready to go. I use the "Ultra Run" activity widget and here are a few tips for any other Garmin users. This type of activity automatically tracks rest time when you hit the lap button. The screen displays current rest duration as well as the total elapsed time since starting. Second tip is I have a "drink alarm" set for every 20 minutes. This is extremely useful for this 1 hour looped event because as the loop unfolds every 20 minutes the alarm would beep and I knew exactly where I was at 20 minutes and again at 40 minutes. It helped me gauge where I was in terms of my pacing on the course every lap as the event went on. I didn't even have to look down, the alarm would go off, and I just knew where I was based on the spot on the loop comparatively. 
• I am sure other brands have similar function, but Garmin is my brand of choice! (do your own research for your particular device….ahead of time).

My Garmin "Ultra Run" activity. Display showing the rest period. This photo is cropped from one clearly after my 29th yard, but shows how simple the data is for viewing.

6.   Have a great support crew.

• A Great support crew can be pivotal in any ultra. But one in the backyard where you have a set amount of time to get up out of our chair and back in the starting corral at the top of every hour is especially important. The longer the race goes the more crucial your crew becomes.
• Having your favorite foods, snacks, and drinks set out for you on returning from the loop saves time and makes it easy on the runner. 
• I recommend fellow ultra running friends, or even better a awesome supportive family such as mine. Some of them may not be the best at crew logistics (yet), but they are cute and provide all the inspiration I need.

My crew chief, my biggest supporter, my best friend, my wife.

My 2 oldest daughters giving me a big hug after completing a loop. Photo: Katie Meding.

Results and Statistics

• Flow of the race:
• 1st yard- The Game begins: 86 runners start
• 2nd yard- 86 runners start
• 3rd yard- 80 runners start
• 12th yard (the 50 mi yard)- 49 runners start
• 14th yard - 30 runners start
• 17th yard (100 km done)- 20 runner start
• 24th yard (the 100 mi yard)- 5 runners start
• 25th yard (100 mi done)- 4 runners start
• 31st yard (125 mi done)- 3 runners start (I dropped after seeing the final 2 off the start)
• 34th yard- winner determined!
• Vincent Barrientos (@vincentbarrientos) won The Game by completing the 34th yard.
• Nick Nelson (@blackflagrunning) completed 33 yards, started the 34th but turned around.

• STRAVA stats: 126.87 mi | 2,274 ft+ | 14:11/mi overall average pace
• Overall Time: 30:00:19 elapsed time
• 21:20:29 running time (71.14%)
• 08:39:31 interloop rest time (28.86%)
• STRAVA activity: https://www.strava.com/activities/5152057093
• Results: 3rd overall, but still technically a "DNF"
• Achieved my backyard Personal Best of 30 yards (previous was 26)
• This was my 75th ultramarathon & my 21st completion of 100 miles or more

My personal spreadsheet data analysis of the race numbers.

Gear Used

• kit (top): rabbit - all sorts of various shirts used
• kit (bottom): rabbit 5" FKT shorts
• jackets: rabbit Elements light wind jacket
• hats: rabbit (BOCO gear)
• Gear bags: Victory Sportdesign
• Lights: kogalla RA adventure light wore around waist & a NATHAN Halo Fire headlamp (as backup)
• Flasks: NATHAN 20oz handheld
• Socks: Drymax
• Shoes: Altra TIMP 1.5
• Anti-Friction Body Lube: Trail Toes
• Watch: Garmin fēnix 6X Pro Solar (finished with 43% battery life still)
• Eyewear: goodr (Sorry, Not Sorry (But Actually Sorry) edition)
• Chair: Magellan Outdoors Oversize Anti-Gravity Lounger
• Cooler(s): x1 YETI & x1 Coleman

Thank You

Huge shoutout to the Race Directors of Spectrum Trail Racing, Mallory & Jason Brooks, whom put on a great event. The race was a pretty decent size and they kept up a great upbeat atmosphere throughout the event with music, pizza for the runners, and a well stoked aid station at the start area. Thank you for putting on The Game and encouraging us to run far and push our limits.

Thanks to my sponsors and supporters: 

• Trail Racing Over Texas
• rabbit
• Victory Sportdesign
• Trail Toes
• Athletic Brewing Company
• Garmin

Last and certainly not least thank you to my 5 ladies in my life (Katie, Addison, Lillian, Paisley, Hazel) whom without their support I would not be able to do what I do. Not only do they allow me the time to train for these crazy endeavors, they came out this weekend and supported me and cheered me on. I am truly grateful for their support.

That's my amazing support team in the background...all 5 of them.

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Next Up: Cocodona 250 (2021-May-03)