Thetford Backyard Ultra Festival

Thetford Backyard Ultra Festival is a late-summer backyard ultra held at High Lodge in Thetford Forest, Suffolk. In the main race, runners begin a 4.167-mile loop each hour, on the hour. They continue until only one runner can complete a loop within the time limit. The format is straightforward yet demanding: all participants run the same distance each round. Rest time is only gained by finishing a loop early, and the field gradually thins as time progresses. Chip timing is employed, and the main event winner receives a £250 prize and entry into the summer Suffolk Back Yard Ultra. The festival also includes 6-hour and 12-hour races for those interested in the backyard format or aiming for a set duration instead of a last-person-standing competition. These shorter events follow the same structure and begin with the main race. However, participants are stopped at their designated time limit, recorded as DNF by the timing system, and do not compete for overall wins or prizes. The 6-hour race has a minimum age of 12, requiring a parent or guardian to be present for the duration. Runners can arrive in the morning to set up, with a briefing held before the midday start. Parking is available for a set fee for both runners and their support crews.