Tunnel to Towers Loch Lothian 5K and Backyard Ultra 2024

Short review

About the Course:

The Loch Lothian 5K course will take you through some incredible scenery right in the heart of Midlothian. The course begins and ends at Midlothian Middle School and runners will traverse varied topography, sidewalks, paths, bridges, and trails in a unique and varied course. Along the way runners will enjoy scenery including Loch Lothian Lake, the Midlothian Mines ruins, replica mining headstock, and miles of trails. Runners will have the opportunity to cross 8 bridges and traverse one tunnel (twice). There will be plenty of level running, downhill stretches and hill climbing. Please use caution, be aware and look out for each other.    The Backyard Ultra will use the same course as the 5k.  The courses are scenic but challenging.  Strollers are welcome but there are a couple of spots where the course uses single track dirt trails.  

ABOUT THE BACKYARD ULTRA:  

A backyard ultra is an endurance race format that will take place on the prescribed 5K course.  The race continues until only one runner remains able to complete the loop within the given time frame.

Rules:

1.    Loop Course: The race takes place on a looped 5K course, which begins and ends at a designated point.

2.    Timing: Each loop must be completed within a set time frame, 40 minutes. After completing a loop, runners rest until the start of the next heat.

3.    Start and Finish: The race starts at a predetermined time, usually early in the morning, and continues until only one runner remains. The winner is            the last person standing.

      Runners must complete the loop within the allotted time frame (40 Minutes)  or they voluntarily withdraw from the race.

5.    Support Crew: Runners are allowed to have a support crew to assist them with food, hydration, and encouragement throughout the race.

6.    DNFs: Runners who fail to complete a loop within the given time or who choose to withdraw from the race are marked as Did Not Finish (DNF).

7.    Winner: The last remaining runner who completes a loop within the time frame is declared the winner.

Backyard ultras are known for their grueling nature and test the endurance, mental toughness, and strategy of participants. They often foster a sense of camaraderie among runners and support crews as they endure the challenges together.

 

About the Cause:

This year we are honored to be supporting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Since 9/11, Tunnel to Towers has been helping America’s heroes by providing mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children and by building specially-adapted smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. Tunnels to Towers is  also committed to eradicating veteran homelessness and helping America to Never Forget September 11, 2001.  As sponsors and participants, you will be supporting an important cause that is making a huge difference in the lives of so many brave families and individuals.