Frequently asked questions
Answers for PZ Backyard Ultra 2027
What is a backyard ultra and how does it work?
A backyard ultra asks runners to complete a 6.706 km (4.167 mile) loop every hour, starting a new loop on the hour. A runner who misses the time limit or the next start is out. The format continues until only one runner can complete another loop.
How long is each yard or loop?
Each yard, or loop, is 6.706 km, equivalent to 4.167 miles. Runners cover that same distance at every hourly start. At PZ Backyard Ultra, five loops total about 33.5 km, while 48 loops total about 322 km, or roughly 200 miles. Your distance depends on how many loops you finish.
Why is a backyard loop 6.706 km?
The standard backyard ultra loop is 4.167 miles, approximately 6.706 km. At one loop per hour, 24 completed loops add up to about 100 miles, and 48 to about 200 miles. PZ Backyard Ultra 2027 advertises a 48-hour limit, so 48 loops are its stated maximum distance target.
When does each loop start, and what is the cutoff?
Each loop starts on the hour when the bell rings. You have less than an hour to finish 6.706 km and be back in the starting corral for the next bell. If you finish late or miss that next start, you are out. The start schedule does not wait for individual runners.
What happens if I miss the bell or starting corral?
Missing the next bell or failing to be in the starting corral means you are out. The race site explicitly says that being late ends your race. Plan any time between loops so you can return before the next hourly start. Each new loop begins on the hour for all remaining runners.
Who wins a backyard ultra?
The winner is the last runner to complete a solo loop within the hourly limit. PZ Backyard Ultra ends when only one person remains running or when its 48-hour limit is reached. If nobody completes a final solo loop in time, the race site says there is no winner. The final loop matters.
Why does everyone else receive a DNF?
PZ Backyard Ultra describes its Last Man Standing result this way: the last runner who completes the required solo loop in time wins, and everyone else receives a DNF. That result does not erase the loops each participant completed. It reflects how this format decides its single winner, rather than ranking finishers by a fixed distance.
What can I do between loops?
Any time left after you finish a loop is yours before the next hourly bell. You can use it to rest and prepare, provided you return to the starting corral on time. There is no fixed break: taking longer to cover 6.706 km leaves less time before the next start.
When and where is PZ Backyard Ultra 2027?
The third PZ Backyard Ultra starts on Saturday, January 30, 2027, at 2:00 p.m. in San Isidro de El General, Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica. The site lists a 48-hour cutoff on Monday, February 1, at 2:00 p.m. Contact Javier through the site's WhatsApp link for the exact starting point.
Does the 2027 race have a 48-hour cap?
Yes. The competitive PZ Backyard Ultra 2027 has a stated 48-hour limit, from Saturday, January 30, at 2:00 p.m. to Monday, February 1, at 2:00 p.m. It can end sooner if only one runner remains able to complete another loop within the hour. Forty-eight loops total about 200 miles.
How do I register for PZ Backyard Ultra?
Registration goes directly through Javier on WhatsApp using the links on the official race site. Tell him whether you want the competitive or recreational division and ask him to confirm current availability, payment, and other details. The site says registration is open and spots are limited, so contacting Javier is the next step.
What is the entry fee, and how many spots are there?
The site lists ₡60,000 and 30 spots for the 2027 competitive division, plus ₡35,000 and 20 spots for the recreational division. These are the published prices and division sizes, not a live inventory of remaining places. Confirm the current fee, availability, and payment steps with Javier through the official WhatsApp link.
Is there a shorter recreational division for first-timers?
Yes. PZ Backyard Ultra 2027 offers a recreational division with a five-loop target of about 33.5 km. It shares the competitive start and hourly bell and is presented as a way to try the format without committing to 48 hours. The site lists 20 spots and ₡35,000; ask Javier about availability.
Is PZ Backyard Ultra a qualifier for Big's Backyard Ultra?
PZ Backyard Ultra identifies itself as an official qualifier for the Big's Backyard Ultra World Championship and links to its listing on Big's site. The page does not specify which result earns a place, a Silver Ticket, or another selection route. Ask Javier or the championship organizer for the current qualification criteria before assuming automatic entry.
Does this race award a Silver Ticket or a Costa Rica team place?
The PZ Backyard Ultra site confirms official qualifier status for Big's but does not publish Silver Ticket rules or Costa Rica team selection criteria. It provides no basis to promise a ticket simply for entering or winning. Ask Javier for the current official criteria and verify them with the championship organizer before making plans.
Is there a camp or drop-bag area?
Yes. The 2027 race site announces a drop-bag camp zone. Each participant gets a designated space for a canopy, tent, or support structure to use as a base during the race. The page does not state space dimensions, crew access, or available services. Ask Javier about those details before packing your setup.
When is bib or runner-kit pickup?
The published 2027 schedule lists runner-kit pickup on Friday, January 29, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. in San Isidro de El General. It does not name an exact pickup venue. Check the precise location and any pickup requirements with Javier on WhatsApp before traveling to the area.
What is the course like, and is there a map?
The site confirms 6.706 km loops in San Isidro de El General, Pérez Zeledón, but does not publish a course map, surface, or elevation profile. Do not assume the route is road, trail, or a particular mix. Ask Javier for the current route and its conditions before choosing shoes or planning your race.
Are poles, pacers, or personal aid allowed on course?
The race page explains its hourly starts and camp zone but does not publish a policy for trekking poles, pacers, or personal assistance during a loop. Do not assume any of these are allowed. Before packing equipment or arranging a crew, ask Javier for the specific PZ Backyard Ultra 2027 race rules.
How do I get there, and where should I stay?
The site places the race in San Isidro de El General, Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica, but does not recommend lodging or provide airport transfer details. Ask Javier for the exact race start before booking a room or transport. Choose travel arrangements around that confirmed point; the site does not state verified journey times.