Madeira Backyard Ultra to debut extreme format in Machico

The third edition of the Madeira Backyard Ultra is scheduled for October 10, 2026, in Machico, Portugal. The event will introduce a new 'Extreme' format featuring a challenging course that includes approximately 400 meters of positive elevation gain per lap.

Participants will run a regulated distance of 6,706 meters each hour, attempting to return to the starting point within 60 minutes to begin the next lap. The course starts at the Porto de Recreio near the Ludens headquarters and extends toward Pico do Facho, passing through scenic areas such as the Miradouro Paraíso.

This format is expected to be the Backyard Ultra with the highest accumulated elevation gain per lap in Portugal. For example, completing 24 laps—equivalent to roughly 100 miles—would result in a total elevation gain of approximately 9,600 meters. Registration is currently open with 150 spots available.