Until the End - Backyard Ultra

Until The End is a premier Belgian endurance challenge following the legendary "Backyard Ultra" format, scheduled to begin on May 2, 2026, in the scenic town of Spa. Conceived by Lazarus Lake (creator of the Barkley Marathons), this event is designed to test the absolute limits of physical and mental resilience. For the 2026 edition, the stakes are exceptionally high, as the winner will earn a prestigious spot on the national team to compete in the World Championships.

The geography of the event is centered around the Warfaaz Sports Center in Spa, a region famous for its rolling hills and thermal springs in the Ardennes mountains. The specific loop distance of 6.706 km is mathematically significant; completing 24 consecutive loops results in exactly 100 miles covered in a single day. In early May, the Ardennes typically experience cool, temperate spring conditions with average highs of 15°C (59°F), but night temperatures can drop significantly, adding a layer of difficulty for those who continue through the darkness. The strategy for participants is a delicate balance: running faster allows for more rest and nutrition between loops, while a slower pace conserves immediate energy but minimizes recovery time.

Logistically, the "Until The End" Backyard Ultra operates as a war of attrition. There is no predetermined finish line; the race only concludes when the second-to-last runner (the "assist") fails to complete a loop, leaving a single winner to finish one final solo lap. Previous winners of this specific event include Damien Mataigne, who secured 34 loops in 2023, and Jelle Tielemans, who achieved 32 loops in 2024. While the world record currently stands at 119 loops for men and 87 for women, this Belgian qualifying event provides local athletes the opportunity to push their boundaries and secure their place on the global stage.