About the Race
THE INAUGURAL YEAR! The Great Lawn Backyard Ultra invites ultrarunners to test their limits in a classic backyard format right in the heart of Norwalk, Connecticut. Scheduled for November 14, this inaugural event challenges participants to conquer a scenic and iconic 4.2-mile loop hour after hour until only one runner remains.
As with most races, this is a NO-REFUND event. We do allow rollovers upon request. Please inquire with Evan (race director) at evantitusfitness@gmail.com to start your request.
Course Description
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Set against the stunning backdrop of Cranbury Park, the course takes runners through a mix of historic estate grounds, wooded single-track trails, and manicured park paths. Every hour on the hour, runners will toe the line to complete the exact 4.2-mile loop (the magical distance that equals 100 miles over 24 laps).
Course Direction Twist: To keep things fresh and dynamic, the route will switch directions every 4 hours! Alternating clockwise and counter-clockwise loops every four hours completely changes the character of the trails, tests your agility, and levels the playing field for all competitors.
Expect classic late-autumn New England scenery, crisp November air, and a spectator-friendly environment where crew and supporters can cheer you on at the start/finish corral after every single lap. Elevation changes are rolling and manageable, keeping a steady rhythm achievable lap after lap.
Aid Station and Support (The Backyard Hub)
Because this is a backyard ultra, the central aid station and runner village are located right at the start/finish area. Runners have access to their personal setups, crew, and fully stocked race-provided hydration and nutrition after every 4.2-mile loop. Staff and volunteers will be on hand to support runners with water, electrolyte replacement, warm food, and hot drinks as the November temperatures drop into the night. Crew access is fully permitted in the designated basecamp area between laps.
Format and Rules
The rules of the Backyard Ultra are simple yet brutal:
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The Bell: Exactly on the hour, every hour, a bell rings signaling the start of the next lap.
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The Starting Corral: All runners must be in the starting corral when the bell rings. No late starters.
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The Pace: Runners have 60 minutes to complete the 4.167-mile loop, which includes time for refueling, changing clothes, and mental prep. Any remaining time before the next hour is yours to rest.
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The Last Person Standing: The event continues hour after hour until only one runner successfully completes a lap under their own power within the hour time limit. That runner is crowned the winner.
Runner Experience
Expect an incredible, tight-knit community atmosphere across day and deep into the cold November night. Cranbury Park provides a atmospheric backdrop for an endurance test: crisp autumn daylight, glowing headlamps slicing through the dark forest trails in the middle of the night, and a supportive basecamp buzzing with energy. If you're here to run your first marathon distance, your first 100K, or pushing past 24 hours to chase legendary status, the community support here is unmatched.
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Finishers & Swag: Runners completing significant milestones (such as 100 miles / 24 laps) or the overall winner will receive custom awards. All participants will receive an official inaugural event t-shirt and race swag.
Practical Details & Logistics
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Date: November 14
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Registration: Early registration is strongly encouraged as field size is limited for our inaugural year.
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Weather & Gear: November in Connecticut is notoriously brisk and unpredictable. Runners should come fully prepared for cold weather, wind, and potentially freezing nighttime temperatures. Pack plenty of warm layers, thermal change clothes, heavy-duty jackets, gloves, beanies, and reliable headlamps with extra batteries.
Volunteering
The Cranbury Park Backyard Ultra is a community effort powered by dedicated volunteers. We rely on people to help manage the timing tent, assist at the main aid station, keep the camp running smoothly, and cheer on runners through the overnight hours. Volunteering is a fantastic way to experience the energy of a backyard ultra. All volunteers receive race swag, food, and our deepest gratitude. Interested individuals can sign up by our sign-up link: