Margalla Backyard Ultra (MBU) follows the same format and rules as the internationally recognized Big's Backyard Ultra. All participants are strongly advised to read the official rules available at: https://backyardultra.com/rules/

1. The Loop

Runners must complete one loop of 4.167 miles (6.706 km or exactly 6,706 metres) within one hour. A new loop starts every hour, and runners must continue completing loops until only one runner remains.

2. The Starting Bell

The starting bell will sound precisely on the hour to signal the start of each loop.

Every runner must be present in the designated starting area before the bell rings. Any runner who fails to be present at the start when the bell sounds will be disqualified. There are no late starts.

3. The Last Runner Standing

The objective is to keep completing the required loop within the one-hour time limit until only one runner remains.

There will be only one finisher who does not receive a DNF (Did Not Finish): the overall champion, provided the event concludes with a valid winner under Backyard Ultra rules.

All other participants will receive a DNF once they stop, fail to meet the rules, or are unable to continue, as applicable.

4. Pacing and Time Management

Pacing is a crucial part of the Backyard Ultra format.

• Run too fast: You may finish early but spend too much time waiting at the starting area, potentially wasting energy.
• Run too slowly: You may have little time to recover, eat, hydrate, and prepare for the next loop.
• Find your rhythm: Aim for a sustainable pace that allows you to complete each loop comfortably while leaving sufficient time for recovery and preparation.

Remember, this is not simply a race against the clock or other runners. It is a test of endurance, consistency, strategy, and mental strength.

Complete the loop. Return on time. Start again. Keep going until you are the last one standing.

Margalla Trail Runners (MTR)

All participants are required to read, understand, and comply with the following guidelines to ensure a fair, safe, and respectful race environment.

1. Backyard Ultra Rules and Format

Margalla Backyard Ultra (MBU) follows the same format and rules as the internationally recognized Big's Backyard Ultra. All participants must familiarize themselves with the official Backyard Ultra rules before race day and ensure full compliance throughout the event.

2. F-9 Park Regulations

The race will take place inside F-9 Park, Islamabad. The park has its own rules and regulations, which must be respected by all participants and their crew members.

• Do not damage, deface, or misuse any park property, facilities, or infrastructure.
• Keep the park and race venue clean and dispose of all waste responsibly.
• Follow the instructions issued by park management and authorized event staff.

3. Compliance and Disqualification

All runners must follow the official Backyard Ultra rules, park regulations, and Margalla Backyard Ultra 2026 (MBU 26) Guidelines.

Any participant found violating these rules may be disqualified from the race. Participants are expected to demonstrate discipline, sportsmanship, and respect throughout the event.

4. Course and Route Navigation

The Margalla Backyard Ultra course and route have already been shared with participants. The GPX file will also be provided to assist with navigation.

• During the first loop, volunteers will guide runners along the course, particularly those participating for the first time or unfamiliar with the park.
• Runners may also follow experienced participants who know the route.
• Every runner must follow the officially designated MBU course throughout the race.
• Course marshals and monitors will conduct random checks along the route.

Taking shortcuts, leaving the designated course, or otherwise gaining an unfair advantage by deviating from the official route will result in disqualification.

5. Conduct and Sportsmanship

All participants must treat organizers, volunteers, fellow runners, park visitors, and other members of the public with courtesy and respect.

The following conduct is strictly prohibited:

• Misbehaving with, threatening, or disrespecting organizers or volunteers.
• Harassing, intimidating, or mistreating fellow runners or park visitors.
• Deliberately violating Backyard Ultra rules, park regulations, or MBU 26 Guidelines.
• Disrupting race operations or refusing to comply with legitimate instructions from race officials.

Any participant found engaging in such misconduct may be disqualified from the event.

6. Race Director's Authority

The Race Director is responsible for overseeing the event and enforcing the Backyard Ultra rules, F-9 Park regulations, and MBU 26 Guidelines.

The Race Director's decision on race-rule interpretation, course compliance, participant conduct, and disqualification matters shall be final.

All participants are expected to cooperate with the Race Director, organizers, and volunteers to ensure the smooth and fair conduct of the event.

Race Director

Javed Ali
Margalla Backyard Ultra 2026
Margalla Trail Runners (MTR)

Respect the rules. Respect the course. Respect each other. Keep going until you are the last one standing.

The entire course of Margalla Backyard Ultra 2026 is located within F-9 Park, Islamabad. The route is almost flat, with approximately 36 metres (118 feet) of elevation gain per loop, making it suitable for runners of different experience levels.

The course can generally be completed within the one-hour time limit, depending on each runner’s pace and strategy.

Course Surface

The route consists primarily of gravel and dirt tracks, with a small section of paved track. Runners should be prepared for these variations in terrain and choose their footwear accordingly.

Course Highlights

• Location: F-9 Park, Islamabad
• Terrain: Almost flat
• Elevation gain: Approximately 36 m (118 ft) per loop
• Surface: Mainly gravel and dirt, with a small paved section
• Time limit: One hour per loop

Important Note

Although the course is relatively flat and manageable, runners should pace themselves wisely, as the Backyard Ultra format requires them to start a new loop every hour until only one runner remains.

Run smart, manage your pace, and keep going — the last one standing wins!

Margalla Trail Runners (MTR)

To ensure a comfortable, safe, and well-organized race experience, all participants are advised to plan their personal logistics and running gear in advance. Please read the following guidelines carefully.

1. Food and Hydration

• Runners are responsible for their own food and nutrition, including meals, snacks, energy gels, energy drinks, electrolytes, and other personal nutritional requirements.
• Water will be provided by the organizers. However, runners should bring their own bottles, cups, or hydration systems as needed.

2. Personal Logistics and Comfort

Runners, especially those planning to complete a high number of loops, are encouraged to bring the following items:

• Camping tent
• Folding chair
• Cup or glass
• Power bank and charging cables
• Blanket, sleeping bag, or other personal comfort items
• Any other essential personal supplies

3. Running Gear and Weather Protection

Runners are responsible for arranging their own running gear and appropriate clothing for both daytime and nighttime running.

Recommended items include:

• Headlamp and/or hand torch, with spare batteries or a backup light
• Rain jacket and rain trousers
• Windbreaker or warm outer layer
• Extra running clothes, socks, and shoes
• Warm layers suitable for nighttime and cold weather
• Any personal safety or running accessories required for the event

Important: Runners planning to complete more than eight loops should be particularly well prepared for nighttime running and changing weather conditions. Please bring appropriate clothing and equipment for both daytime and nighttime conditions.

4. Camping and Tent Arrangements

• Runners may pitch a small camping tent inside the marquee/shamiyana or large tent area, subject to available space.
• Space inside the designated tent area will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
• If space is unavailable, runners may pitch their tents outside the marquee/shamiyana or large tent area, subject to the organizers' instructions and available space.
• Please keep your camping area compact, organized, and clean to ensure sufficient space for all participants.

5. Support Crew Policy and Space Management

• Each runner may be accompanied by a maximum of two support/crew members.
• Participants bringing more than two support/crew members must arrange their camping setup outside the designated marquee/shamiyana or large tent area during the daytime, subject to available space.
• If space becomes available at night, they may move their camping setup inside the designated tent area with the organizers' permission.
• The organizers aim to provide adequate space for all runners inside the large tent area. Therefore, everyone is requested to cooperate and avoid occupying more space than necessary.

6. Toilet Facilities

Toilet facilities are available inside F-9 Park. Participants and crew members are requested to use these facilities responsibly and help maintain cleanliness.

Final Reminder

Be self-sufficient, pack wisely, and prepare for all weather conditions. Proper planning and cooperation will help ensure a comfortable race experience for everyone at Margalla Backyard Ultra 2026.

Thank you for your cooperation and support.

Margalla Trail Runners (MTR)

• To ensure a safe, clean, and respectful environment during the Margalla Backyard Ultra 2026, all participants and their crew members are required to follow the rules below.

  1. Respect F-9 Park Regulations

  • Do: Follow all rules and regulations established by F-9 Park management.
  • Don’t: Damage, deface, or misuse any park property, facilities, or infrastructure. Participants and crew members will be held responsible for any damage caused by them.

  2. Keep the Track Clean

  • Do: Use the designated dustbins along the track whenever possible.
  • Don’t: Throw litter, including gel wrappers, cups, bottles, food packaging, or any other waste, on the running track or anywhere within the park.

  3. Dispose of Waste Properly

  • Do: Use the garbage bags provided in the Start/Finish area to dispose of your waste. Help us keep the race venue clean and environmentally friendly.
  • Don’t: Leave litter, personal belongings, or waste around the Start/Finish area or anywhere else at the venue.

  4. Understand the Role of Volunteers and Organizers

  • Do: Cooperate with volunteers and organizers and follow their instructions regarding race arrangements, safety, and event management.
  • Don’t: Expect volunteers or organizers to provide personal assistance or individual support to participants or their crew members. Their responsibility is to manage race operations and arrangements, not personal crew support.

  Our Commitment

  Respect the park. Keep the trails clean. Support the race team. Leave No Trace.

  Let’s work together to make Margalla Backyard Ultra 2026 a successful, responsible, and environmentally friendly event.

PARTICIPANT WAIVER, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY

Margalla Backyard Ultra 2026

1.  Event Format & Rules Acknowledgment

Margalla Backyard Ultra 2026 operates strictly in accordance with the official Big's Backyard Ultra Rules (https://backyardultra.com/rules/).

• Loop Distance & Timing: Participants must complete a 4.167-mile (6.7056 km / 6,706 meters) loop within 60 minutes.
• Start Signal: The starting bell rings precisely on the hour. Any runner who fails to be inside the designated starting corral before the bell rings will be immediately disqualified and designated as a Did Not Finish (DNF).
• Winner Classification: The event continues until only one runner remains who successfully completes a solo loop within the 1-hour time limit. Every other participant receives a DNF.

2.  Environmental & Park Regulations

The event takes place in Fatima Jinnah (F-9) Park, Islamabad. All participants and crew members must adhere to park guidelines:

• Zero Littering: Littering on the track or anywhere within the park premises is strictly prohibited. All trash must be disposed of in designated park bins or garbage bags provided at the Start/Finish
• Property Protection: Damaging Park property, flora, or infrastructure is strictly
• Crew Support Limits: Event volunteers and organizers are present solely for race coordination, timing, and management. They are not responsible for providing personal aid, crew duties, or support to individual runners.

3.  Anti-Doping & Integrity Policy

• Urine & Substance Testing: Top 5 Participants may be requested to undergo mandatory urine/anti-doping testing upon completing or withdrawing from the event to ensure compliance with Big's Backyard Ultra rules.

• Non-Compliance & Violations: Refusal to submit to testing will result in immediate disqualification and withholding of results. Any participant found using prohibited substances will be disqualified and reported directly to the international Big's Backyard Ultra governing body.

4.  Event Operations & Force Majeure

• Route Alteration / Cancellation: The Organizer reserves the right to alter the course, adjust timings, or cancel the event due to severe weather, safety concerns, or Force Majeure
• Right of Refusal: Event officials retain absolute authority over race management. Decisions made by race directors and officials are final.
• Legal Compliance: Participants must comply with all local statutes, public safety regulations, and laws of Pakistan.

5.  Voluntary Release of Liability & Authorization

• Assumption of Risk: I declare that I am at least 18 years of age and physically fit to participate in an extreme endurance event. I acknowledge that competing in this event carries inherent risks, and I choose to participate entirely at my own risk.
• Release & Indemnity: I agree that the event organizers, Margalla Trail Runners, event directors, officers, staff, and volunteers shall not be held liable for any personal injury, illness, death, loss, damage, claims, costs, or expenses arising directly or indirectly from my participation.
• Legal Waiver: My participation confirms that I will not initiate any legal proceedings, claims, or lawsuits against Margalla Trail Runners, organizers, or volunteers for any claims.
• Media Authorization: I grant the organizers full authorization to capture and use my name, voice, photos, and video footage taken before, during, or after the event for promotional, marketing, and media purposes without compensation.

6.  Participant Declaration & Execution

I confirm that I have read, understood, and agreed to all the terms, conditions, rules, and liability releases outlined in this document. My signature below signifies my full acceptance and commitment to abide by them.