Barigau Backyard Ultra

The Barigau Backyard Ultra is a unique endurance test scheduled to begin on Saturday, May 2, 2026, in the rugged landscape of Ulassai, Sardinia. Based in the historic Piazza Barigau, this event follows the traditional backyard ultra format, where participants must complete a 6.706-kilometer loop every hour, on the hour, until only one runner remains. This format levels the playing field, shifting the focus from pure speed to psychological resilience and consistent pacing.

Event Detail	Information
Start Date & Time	Saturday, May 2 @ 9:00 AM
Basecamp Location	Piazza Barigau, Ulassai (OG), Italy
Race Format	Backyard Ultra (Last Person Standing)
Facilities	Basecamp access, Free parking

The geography of the course highlights the limestone cliffs and dramatic "tacchi" (tablelands) that define the Ogliastra region of Sardinia. While the specific loop path is designed to be manageable within the hour limit, runners will navigate the elevation changes and rocky terrain characteristic of the Ulassai mountainside. In early May, the Sardinian interior typically experiences mild spring weather with average daytime highs of 19°C (66°F). However, because the race continues through the night until a winner is determined, participants must prepare for significant temperature drops and the technical challenges of navigating the Mediterranean scrub under headlamps. Logistically, the event headquarters in Piazza Barigau opens at 7:00 AM for check-in and basecamp setup. Ulassai is a renowned hub for outdoor sports, particularly climbing and trail running, and the local community provides a supportive backdrop for the "village" that forms as the race progresses. There is no predetermined end time; the challenge concludes only when a single runner completes a solo loop that no other participant can match. Registration and coordination are managed by the Barigau Backyard Organizer Team via Eventbrite, and the central location in Ulassai offers various nearby accommodation options for support crews and traveling athletes.