The Manotick Backyard Ultra takes place in October — the 2026 edition is set for October 3 in Manotick, Ontario (Ottawa). Organized by InStride Running and driven by a team that includes Laura Glasper, Danielle Guffie, Summer Milley and Jess and Charlie Cullen of 692 Coffee & Bar, the event grew from a group of friends who wanted a race that reflected neighbourliness and mutual support.

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The Manotick Backyard Ultra follows the backyard-ultra tradition: runners complete a set loop repeatedly, departing on the hour and continuing lap after lap until a single finisher remains. The format strips the race down to a series of contained efforts, where pacing, consistency and community support matter as much as speed. The website and race communications contain registration and schedule specifics.

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What sets this event apart is its origin story and local focus. The Backyard Ultra springs from the same friendships that built 692 Coffee & Bar, a neighbourhood gathering spot in Manotick; organizers describe the race as an expression of community, courage and connection. Runners, volunteers, neighbours and café regulars are woven into the experience — every circuit draws cheers, and the event deliberately foregrounds encouragement and shared accomplishment over cutthroat competition.

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Registration is open through Race Roster for the 2026 race; interested runners should secure entries early, as the backyard-ultra format often attracts committed participants and a tight-knit field.

• Event takes place in Manotick, Ontario (a suburb of Ottawa).
• Backyard-ultra style: runners complete a repeated loop each hour until one runner remains.
• Strong neighbourhood presence and support from 692 Coffee & Bar, volunteers and local spectators throughout the event.

• Community-driven event: Founded and produced by InStride Running alongside the owners of 692 Coffee & Bar, the race grew from local friendships and neighbourhood connection.
• Repeat-the-loop challenge: Backyard-ultra format has runners complete the same circuit each hour, turning endurance into a communal ritual of repeated efforts.
• Coffeehouse roots: The race springs from the story of 692 Coffee & Bar, tying the event to a physical and social gathering place in Manotick.
• Every lap supported: Volunteers, neighbours and café regulars cheer competitors on each circuit, making encouragement a core race feature.