About this Event
Welcome to the 2nd St Albans Sixer / Backyard Ultra. A running event with a difference.
A Backyard Ultra is a unique type of ultra-endurance race where runners must complete a 4.167-mile (6.706 km) loop every hour, on the hour, until only one runner remains.
£55 per runner.
Ticket price includes 6 drink tokens, your own commemorative glass with at least £5 going to charity.
You can use your drinks tokens from the start of the first lap, up and until the last person crossing the finishing line. You are free to use your drinks tokens in any way you see fit.
This event is limited to only 90 people.
You can only run as an individual at this Sixer event. No teams / relays.
We are proud to annouce that at least £5 of the entry fee going to Youth Talk, a local charity, that provides free, confidential counselling to 13-25 year olds in St Albans and surrounding areas.
The first lap starts at 10am on the 23rd May 2026. And to continue to take part in the event, you will need to be on the start line on the hour, every hour. The last person to complete the last lap, will be the winner.
Food and drink will be avaliable throughout the day / night.
The pub will remain open, 24 hours a day, throughout the event. However, only runners and supporters of the runners will be allowed inside during non-pub hours.
TIMINGS
Bag Drop and registration opens at Lower Red Lion at 8.30am. Please arrive in plenty of time to register.
A run briefing will pace place at 9.30am, with the first lap starting at 10am. All runners need to be at the race briefing.
Start time
10am - Lower Red Lion - 23rd May 2026
End time
When the last person crosses the line at the Lower Red Lion
ROUTE
The start and finish will be at the The Lower Red Lion. No other pubs will be used for this Sixer event. A map of the course will be published at least 2 weeks before the event.
More information will be posted on our facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/TheStAlbansSixer/
KIT
Comfortable trail running shoes suitable for various terrains.
Warm, Breathable clothing to stay comfortable during extended hours of running. Day and night.
Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. Add in a waterproof jacket, just in case. It is May, but you never know.
Use a headlamp or a chestlamp for night running.
Consider wearing a hat or cap (or even sunglasses) to protect yourself from the sun during the day.
Energy gels / protein snacks, if that is your thing.
Water bottle. The pub will be happy to fill this up as many times as you need.
Basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief Medic*tion.
Extra socks.
What is a Background Ultra
A Backyard Ultra is a unique type of ultra-endurance race where runners must complete a 4.167-mile (6.706 km) loop every hour, on the hour, until only one runner remains. The format was created by Lazarus Lake, the mastermind behind the Barkley Marathons.
How It Works:
1. The Course – Typically, the loop is a mix of trails and roads, designed to be runnable but challenging.
2. The Time Limit – Each loop must be completed in under one hour. Any extra time before the next hour can be used for rest, eating, or strategy.
3. The Start Format – A whistle signals the start at 3, 2, and 1 minute before each new loop. Runners must be at the starting line when the next hour begins.
4. The “Last Person Standing” Rule – The race continues until only one runner completes a loop. The second-to-last runner is considered a DNF (Did Not Finish).
5. No Pacers, No Crews (Sometimes) – Runners must rely on their own strategy, endurance, and mental toughness.
Why It’s Unique:
• No fixed distance – The race continues indefinitely.
• Requires strategy – Runners must balance speed, recovery, and pacing.
• Mental and physical endurance – Unlike a traditional ultra with a set finish line, the uncertainty of how long it will last adds a psychological challenge.
The current record for a Backyard Ultra stands at over 100 hours, meaning the last runner covered more than 400 miles!It’s a brutal yet simple test of endurance, grit, and sheer willpower.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For more information or you have any questions, please contact the organisers below.
Matt Bigg - [email protected]
David Worcester - [email protected]
Disclaimer
1) I am over the age of 18 as at 24/05/2025.
2) I declare that I am medically fit to compete & understand that I do so entirely at my own risk.
3) I understand that I enter the race at my own risk and that no person(s) or organisation(s) will be held responsible for any accident, injury or loss to myself, prior to, during or after the event.
4) I understand the organisers reserve the right to alter the arrangements and conditions, should circumstances require.
Refunds: We not offer refunds, transfers or deferrals for this event or any events linked. If you are unable to attend due to illness, injury, family bereavement or jury service, you will only be eligible for a transfer or credit note on production of official evidence:
Event Cancellation: If the event should have to be cancelled due to reasons beyond our control (for example – but not limited to – adverse weather, local or national lockdown) entrants will be given a credit note for the value of their entry fee (minus the booking fee) to be used on any future event.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Lower Red Lion, 36 Fishpool Street, St Albans, United Kingdom
GBP 55.00
