Brief

Jack Hanley to chase Backyard Ultra record in Wollongong

Hanley will run hourly 6.706‑km loops with brief naps and a nutrition crew supporting his bid to be the last man standing.

By Felo News Desk · Published Fri, 16 Oct 2026 09:44:28 GMT

Australian ultra‑runner Jack Hanley, known on Instagram as @the_crazy_running_man, is set to compete in the Backyard Ultra in Wollongong on Saturday, aiming to beat his previous 74‑hour effort.

What happened

The Backyard Ultra requires participants to run a 6.706‑km loop each hour, on the hour. Runners who fail to complete the loop are eliminated; the last runner remaining wins. Hanley previously completed a 74‑hour run in Sydney, covering roughly 496 km.

What the reports add

The SMH article explains that Hanley typically completes each loop in 45–46 minutes, leaving about 13 minutes for rest, eating and brief meditation. After 8 pm each night he plans to speed up to 41–42 minutes per loop, then take a 12–15‑minute power nap on a blow‑up mattress in a gazebo set up on the course. He will be supported by a day‑and‑night crew, including a nutrition coach, to monitor his intake and hydration.

What was said

Hanley told the SMH, “The energy, the vibe, the people, it’s just so awesome,” describing the event as “an absolute party.” He added that the combination of endurance, sleep deprivation and precise nutrition makes the challenge “awesome.”

How it came about

Backyard Ultra events have grown in popularity among endurance athletes, with the format allowing participants to control their pace and rest within each hour. Hanley’s third attempt follows his 2024 debut in Sydney, where he set his personal record. His preparation this year includes a dedicated nutrition plan and a crew to manage meals and recovery, reflecting the increasing professionalism of ultra‑marathon competitors.

Key facts

Jack Hanley will compete in the Backyard Ultra in Wollongong on Saturday. (smh.com.au)
The race requires a 6.706‑km loop each hour; runners are eliminated if they miss the hour. (smh.com.au)
Hanley previously ran for 74 hours in Sydney, covering about 496 km. (smh.com.au)
He aims to complete loops in 45–46 minutes, resting 12–15 minutes between loops. (smh.com.au)
A nutrition coach and a day‑and‑night crew will support him during the event. (smh.com.au)