Back Yard Ultra Tips from 2 Time winner Sarah Perry

Got a  24 hour event or a backyard ultra coming up? You've come to the right place for some top tips.

Sarah Perry completed 41 laps and a massive 170 miles at the Rasselbock BYU in Sherwood Forest March 2024.

We are super grateful for Sarah for writing us the tip sheet for Backyard Ultras, having just won a previous event in Northumberland in 2022

BYU: Top Tips

I'll be honest, it's not my preferred style of event, however, I don't seem to be too bad at it. Here are my five top tips to help you smash your upcoming BYU. 

⭐Train for an ultra: with an uncertain finish line, you need to be prepared to run for numerous days. Depending on your goal, a 100 mile or 200 mile training plan could be your best option. At the very least, get your long runs in. Even if you're not going for the win, it's a great format to stretch yourself and get a distance PB. 

⭐Have an all you can eat buffet: the format means that time could be limited at the end of each lap. This means you need to have a well-planned strategy for fueling. Focusing on whatever works for you within an ultra is a good idea, I personally recommend lots of savory foods such as pretzels, salted potatoes, noodles and of course Chia Charge bars. If you are short on time you may need an "on the go" strategy. 

⭐ Check the weather: both of my BYU's kicked off in the blazing sun. This meant that I had to prioritise hydration and electrolytes. I also took full kit for all eventualities, you'll never know what you might need and one of the advantages of having a checkpoint every 4 miles. 

⭐ Bring a friend: having support is a major advantage. Unfortunately for them it's not all BBQ's and beer. They will need to ensure your needs are catered for by the time you get in as time is precious. Choose wisely as it is not an easy job, they could be at it for a couple of days. 

⭐Make new friends: have a great time on course chatting to your competitors, it's likely you will meet some brilliant, like-minded (and crazy) new running friends. You may be running along time with these people and may help to distract you from the monotonous journey.

Happy running!

Sarah 🏃‍♀️