Sydney's Backyard Ultra

Saturday, 17 April 2027

St Ives, Mona Vale, Sydney, NSW

180 Cadence

← 2026 edition & results

About This Event

Experience the world’s biggest Backyard Ultra at St Ives Showground. Run a 6.71 km loop every hour, hour after hour, until only one runner remains. Ideal for ultra‑endurance fans seeking a mental and physical challenge in a supportive Sydney community.

Events & entry fees

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Saturday 17 April

Backyard Ultra

8am

$276

Entry fees as listed on 5 Oct 2026. Prices often rise after early bird, so check the entry page for today's price.

Quick Facts

Date: Saturday, 17 April 2027
Terrain: Mixed
Location: St Ives, Mona Vale, Sydney, NSW
Entry Fee: $275.75
Difficulty: Challenging
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Good for Beginners: No – the Backyard Ultra format demands experience with timed loops and endurance, making it unsuitable for absolute beginners.

Event Details

Date Saturday, 17 April 2027

Location St Ives, Mona Vale, Sydney, NSW

State NSW

Organizer 180 Cadence

Course Description

The race takes place on a precisely measured 6.706 km loop set inside the St Ives Showground’s Jim Watson Arena. The flat to gently rolling circuit includes a modest 34 m of elevation gain and is marked the day before, so you’ll never need to follow a map during the event. The loop runs on a mix of paved pathways and well‑maintained grass, offering a clear, spectator‑friendly course where you can see your support crew and the start/finish corral each hour. Every yard begins on the hour, with three‑minute warnings, and you must finish each loop within 60 minutes to stay in the race.

Getting There

The event is held at St Ives Showground in the northern Sydney suburb of St Ives. Parking is provided at the front of the showground, about 150 m from the starting corral. For public transport options and detailed directions, visit the official race website. Arrive early – bib collection opens at 6:00 am and the race briefing starts at 7:45 am, with the first loop kicking off at 8:00 am.

Weather & What to Pack

April in Sydney is mid‑autumn, with typical daytime highs around 24 °C and overnight lows near 15 °C. Expect mild sunshine, occasional light showers and moderate humidity. Dress in layers – a breathable shirt and a light jacket for cooler morning or evening loops. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is essential, and stay hydrated with water or electrolyte drinks throughout the day.

Race details last updated 5 Oct 2026

Ready to run Sydney's Backyard Ultra?

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register and what is the entry fee?

Registration is online via the official race website. The general entry fee is $275.75 per participant. The event caps at 750 runners, with spots filling quickly, so book early. Check the website for any updates on availability.

What gear is mandatory on race day?

All runners must wear their allocated race bib, carry a fully charged head torch (required for any night yards), have a mobile phone for emergencies, and bring a reusable cup or flask for drinks. Failure to have any of these items may result in disqualification.

Can I bring a support crew or set up a gazebo?

Yes, a support crew is encouraged. Crews must follow the race manual, may only assist after a yard is completed, and must not obstruct runners or the course. Gazebos are allowed but must be ≤3 m × 3 m, securely pegged, and cannot use string lines.

When should I arrive and what are the start times?

Bib collection opens at 6:00 am, followed by a race briefing at 7:45 am. The first yard begins at 8:00 am. Arriving by 6:00 am gives you time to collect your bib, set up your gear, and attend the briefing.

Are there any age restrictions or cut‑off times?

Participants must be 18 years or older. There is no predefined cut‑off; the race continues hour after hour until only one runner remains. For any specific concerns, refer to the official FAQ page.