Pleasant Ridge Backyard Ultra

Greenville County Recreation presents

Pleasant Ridge Backyard Ultra

Run a 4.167-mile lap every hour, on the hour, until only one runner is left: a race not about who is fastest, but who can endure the longest.

Saturday, January 30, 2027 · Pleasant Ridge Camp and Retreat Center · Marietta, SC

About the Race

Greenville County Recreation presents an endurance race that will test your limits and your mental grit: the Pleasant Ridge Backyard Ultra!

The format is one for everyone. You do not have to be an ultrarunner to take part. We want anyone and everyone who is interested in running to come and go for their personal best distance.

What is a backyard ultra?

It's simple: run a 4.167-mile lap every hour, on the hour, until you can no longer continue. If a runner cannot complete a lap, or returns after the hour is up, they are given a DNF. The last person able to complete a full lap is declared the winner. There are no runner categories, and every runner starts at the same time.

Race Day Details

DateSaturday, January 30, 2027 (continues into Sunday, January 31)Start Time8:00 AM sharp. No late starts will be accepted.LocationPleasant Ridge Camp and Retreat Center 4232 Highway 11, Marietta, SC 29661Early Bib PickupFriday, January 29, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PMCheck-inSaturday, January 30, 6:30 - 7:30 AMAid Station SetupFriday, January 29, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Spots are first come, first served. If you use a pop-up tent, bring something to secure it down.

The Events

Pleasant Ridge Backyard Ultra · 8:00 AM

4.167-mile laps every hour on the hour. The event is open-ended and continues until one participant remains.

Registration costs less before August 31, 2026. Current prices are shown when you click Sign Up.

Race Weekend Timeline

Friday, January 29

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM · Early bib pickup and racer aid station setup

Saturday, January 30

6:30 - 7:30 AM · Runner check-in and bib pickup

7:30 AM · Runner information meeting

8:00 AM · Race officially starts (no late starts)

Sunday, January 31

The race continues until one participant remains

Course

The course features sections of the JFA trail and paved paths. It will be a beautiful and challenging loop.

Start/Finish on Google Maps

What's Included

In most races you get nothing for a DNF. In this race, the DNF is a trophy in itself: it means you tried your hardest and tested your limits.

Every runner receives a DNF camp mug and a T-shirt

Race Awards

The winner, the last runner to complete a full lap, receives a finisher award.

Race Policies

Weather: the race goes on rain or shine. Cancellation depends on county weather closures, and race managers will make a judgement call on course closure if conditions become unsafe.

Come prepared for any kind of weather and terrain. We do not supply any gear for the event.

No late starts will be accepted.

Let's Stay Connected

Questions? Use the contact form or tap the chat button in the corner.

Contact the Race Director