IMRA Kilworth Backyard Ultra

🏞️ Kilworth Backyard Ultra – Cork (6.7 km loop) 🏅

Take on the ultimate endurance challenge at the Kilworth Backyard Ultra in Cork! This unique format tests consistency, resilience, and mental strength as runners complete a 6.7 km loop every hour—continuing day and night until only one runner remains.

📅 Date: Saturday, 19th September 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00 (noon start)
📍 Location: Kilworth Woods / Glensheshkin Woods, Co. Cork

🎽 Event Overview:

Loop Distance: 6.7 km (repeated hourly)

Climb per Loop: ~125 metres

Difficulty: Extreme (Backyard Ultra format)

Terrain: Forest paths and trails

Race Marking: Fully marked

GPS Allowed: Yes

🎟️ Entry Details:

Entry details are not available yet

Entries usually open a couple of weeks before the event

🎒 Mandatory Kit:

Level C – Advanced Kit:

Waterproof jacket with integrated hood and taped seams

Hat or buff

Gloves

Whistle

Charged mobile phone with emergency number stored

Foil blanket, bivvy bag, or equivalent

Waterproof full leg cover

Means to carry a minimum of 500 mL water

Emergency food

Map of route/area

Compass

All runners must bring the above items. Final kit requirements will be confirmed on the day depending on conditions and advised at registration. Failure to carry the required kit may lead to refusal of entry or disqualification. Random checks may occur.

📍 Route Description:
The race starts at noon and continues hour by hour until only one runner completes a loop more than everyone else. The starting corral is at the top of the main car park in Kilworth Woods. Each loop gains approximately 125 m and is run mostly on wide forest paths with some narrow trail sections. The course is fully marked, with marshals guiding the early laps.

There are no aid stations on the course. Water and light refreshments are provided at the start/finish area. Runners are strongly encouraged to bring personal supplies, especially if planning to go long. Crew support is allowed at base camp only—no assistance on the course. Trekking poles are not permitted.

🚗 Getting There:
Follow directions for Glensheshkin Woods. Parking is limited, so carpooling is strongly advised.

📝 Organisers Instructions:

Each loop starts on the hour; runners have one hour to complete it

Warnings given at 3, 2, and 1 minutes before each start

All runners must start at the bell (no late starts)

No leaving the course until a loop is completed (except toilet breaks)

The race continues until only one runner remains

A true test of endurance, strategy, and community—perfect for first-time ultra runners and seasoned veterans alike. 🕰️🏃‍♂️🔥