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Hope Trail Festival Ultra Marathon
Whilst not technically a backyard ultra in the true sense, the Hope Trail Festival Ultra Marathon is a unique event by GB Ultras that combines the challenge of a timed multi-lap race with an electrifying festival atmosphere. Forget traditional finish lines; here, your goal is to complete as many laps as you possibly can within the time limit (12 hour, 24 hour or 36 hours options available), echoing the spirit of a backyard ultra but with a fixed countdown to glory.
The Challenge
Hope Trail Festival offers a flexible format to suit every runner and group:
- Solo Runners: The ultimate test of individual resilience. Battle through day and night, managing your physical and mental state over countless loops. Achieve the monumental 100-mile milestone (20 laps) as a solo runner and earn the highly coveted "Hope Ultra" buckle.
- Pairs: Share the adventure and the load with a friend. Only one runner is on the course at any given time, making strategy and support crucial for racking up the miles.
- Teams (3 to 8 runners): The social heart of the festival! Run relay-style with your teammates, experiencing the camaraderie and excitement of a 24-hour endurance event together. Every team member must complete at least one lap.
Time Options
- 12 Hour Solo/Pairs/Teams receive the Bronze ‘Hope Ultra’ Medal
- 4 Hour Solo/Pairs/Teams earn a Silver ‘Hope Ultra’ Medal
- 36 Hour Solo/Pairs/Teams earn a Gold ‘Hope Ultra’ Medal
The Course
The 5-mile (8km) loop at Newnham Park is a well-marked trail that will keep you engaged from start to finish. Winding through picturesque fields and woodlands, the course features a consistent undulating profile – expect plenty of climbs and descents that build up the elevation with each circuit. It's a challenging yet runnable trail, designed to be enjoyed lap after lap, allowing you to familiarise yourself with every twist and turn as the hours tick by.
For full event details, including FAQs and registration information, please visit the official race website.
