big's backyard ultra records

Big's Backyard Ultra Records: Unbreaking Limits

By Andrew LewisDecember 23, 2025

The phrase "Big's Backyard Ultra" might not initially convey the epicenter of human endurance that it has come to represent. Incepted by Lazarus Lake, known for his relentless ultra-running feats, this unique event has carved a niche for itself in the annals of ultra-marathon history. But what sets this race apart, and what are the records that have emerged from this seemingly simple idea of running until you can't? Let's dive into the fascinating world of Big's Backyard Ultra records.

At its core, Big's Backyard Ultra is a looped course where participants must complete a 4.166667-mile (6.706km) trail loop within a set time frame. If they fail to do so, they are eliminated. The time limit is 1 hour, during which runners can also decide to pull out at any time. The unique twist? The race only ends when there's only one runner remaining, or when a set timeframe (usually 24 or 48 hours) has elapsed. It's a test of not just physical endurance, but also mental resilience and strategy.

The Concept and Its Evolution

Initially held in 2006 as a private event on Lazarus Lake's property, Big's Backyard Ultra quickly gained traction due to its grueling nature. From a gathering of a few friends, it has grown into an international event, drawing top ultra-runners from across the globe. The event's unconventional format has led to innovative strategies and awe-inspiring performances, setting the stage for remarkable records.

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As the race gained prominence, so did the desire to push the boundaries of human endurance. The records set at Big's Backyard Ultra are not just about speed, but also about longevity, strategy, and sheer willpower.

records of Endurance

The most iconic record is the longest time a runner has remained in the lead, often dubbed the ultimate test of enduring long distances with minimal recovery. The current record holder is Jon Alinger, who completed 298 laps, totaling over 1200 miles (1931 km) during the 2019 edition. Alinger's incredible feat not only set a new record but also pushed the limits of what was thought possible.

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However, Big's Backyard Ulra isn't just about the longest time spent running. It's also about the number of laps completed. The record for the most laps completed by a female runner was set by Camille Herron, who ran 146 laps in 2017, covering over 600 miles (965 km). These records serve as a testament to the incredible fortitude of human athletes.

Strategic Records

Big's Backyard Ultra isn't just a test of endurance; it's also a game of strategy. Many runners employ "walk breaks" and strategic pacing, making it a battle of minds as much as bodies. The record for the most aggressive pacing, however, belongs to jared campbell, who maintained an average lap time of under 1 hour for his initial 87 laps in 2011.

On the other end of the spectrum, the most conservative pacing strategy, often referred to as " chanceless running," was employed by Harvey Lewis II in 2020. Lewis walked each lap, never breaking a sweat, yet finished ahead of many runners who adopted more aggressive strategies. His conservation of energy was a masterclass in strategic running, underscoring the intellectual challenge of the event.

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The Future of Big's Backyard Ultra Records

As the event continues to evolve, so too will the records. The spirit of Big's Backyard Ultra is one of camaraderie and pushing personal limits, whether those limits are about distance, time, strategy, or even the nature of what it means to compete. Each year brings new challengers, new strategies, and new records, making it a dynamic space for the exploration of human potential.

The records at Big's Backyard Ultra are more than just numbers on a page or a trophy on a shelf. They represent the stories of ordinary people pushing extraordinary boundaries, embodying the spirit of Lazarus Lake's vision: running until you can't, and finding out just how far that is. As we look to the future, it's an exciting time to be a part of this unique community of runners, all seeking to embrace the challenge and perhaps even set new records of their own.