David, one of the Runners in the Ultra, Takes a Break in Between Rounds Today. He Lives in North Deering and Had Lots of Support from Family Members from Out-of-State.  “I’m hot but I’m okay,” he said as he ate slices of a pizza.”

Keeping Track of Who is in and Who is Out of the Ultra.

One hundred and twenty-three runners registered for the grueling third annual Back Cove Backyard Ultra this morning according to Mari Balow, Race Director for the third consecutive year, and from Runaways Run Club, one of the hosts of the event.  And no one knows when the Ultra will end.  The winner will be  determined by whomever is the “last person” standing following round after round of running the 4.2 mile loop..  As of 4:00 pm this afternoon, the number of runners still standing had been reduced to ninety from the original uncalculated number running at today’s start.

Last year’s race was also held at the Back Cove trail parking lot and lasted for 28 hours over a 116 mile course before Justin Geroux was declared the winner.  Justin was running again in this year’s race.  Ultra means beyond marathon and these grueling tests are popping-up all over the country.

A special tent was erected on site to deal with needs of the runners by Steady State, a sports physical therapy business located at 24 Romasco Lane, in the J. J. Nissen Building by Dr. Kelton Cullenberg and his wife Dr. Ashton Cullenberg.  Despite the heat and humidity which left many cloistered beside air conditioning units or at a nearby sandy beach, Kelton said there were no heat issues,  The handful that were treated in their tent required massages and relief from cramps or fatigue.  A voluntary nurse practitoner was on site during the race today in case of a more serious health issue.

Today’s Ultra race was a collaborative effort between Steady State, Runaways Run Club, and Grind Run Club – all located in Portland.  Entry fee was $65.00.