We had a race this weekend! Read on for a short summary of this festival-esque day on the trails
Some Background Info
Sunday was the second running of the Backyard Bonanza. Hosted at the Herman & Kate Kaiser YMCA and created/operated by RunnersWorld Racing, this race saw 30% growth in participants over the inaugural year in 2021! As always with running, the more the merrier!
The distances run were 5k, 12.5k, and 25k. The 12.5k runners had to complete one lap of more than 600ft elevation change through sun-dappled trails ridden with fresh-fallen leaves. 25k runners did two laps and 5k runners had some overlap with the main loop but was distinct in some sections.
With very few flat sections, this course provided non-stop fun on technical up and downhills.
The temperature started out in the 50s for the 7:30 start of the 12.5k and 25k and quickly increased from then. It was a beautiful day in Tulsa's Backyard!
The distances run were 5k, 12.5k, and 25k. The 12.5k runners had to complete one lap of more than 600ft elevation change through sun-dappled trails ridden with fresh-fallen leaves. 25k runners did two laps and 5k runners had some overlap with the main loop but was distinct in some sections.
With very few flat sections, this course provided non-stop fun on technical up and downhills.
The temperature started out in the 50s for the 7:30 start of the 12.5k and 25k and quickly increased from then. It was a beautiful day in Tulsa's Backyard!
The Course (12.5k and 25k)
The Backyard Bonanza course was a rollercoaster run that kept runners focused on the trail in front of them--and the feet under them! The 5k course deviated somewhat from the 12.5k and 25k loop, but was just as hilly! Here's an elevation profile from one lap (looks like I might need to update my watch! Ignore the different start and end elevations...):
Elevation profile of one 12.5k lap from Garmin watch (Instinct).
Elevation profile of one 12.5k lap from Garmin watch (Instinct).
On-course terrain ranged from dry, groomed sections to some sharp turns covered in deep layers of leaves to rocky technical sections. If you enjoy trail running, you would LOVE this course! Racers started off with a grueling incline of steep straights and switchbacks which briefly leveled off before dropping in around the Powerline section of Turkey Mountain. After some cruising up and down the east side of Turkey Mountain trails, racers were once again sent across Powerline near the upper parking lot.
Next, the course entered some rolling sections of more heavily-foliaged trail before going weaving in and around tires as they neared the finish. A steady downhill followed by a toe grabbing descent placed runners on the last straightaway before the finish line.
As is typical for RunnersWorld Racing races, the aid stations were loaded with all the goodies racers hearts could desire! And the finish area was stocked with pancakes and even a chili cook-off! Plus, there were so many kind, helpful volunteers to thank!
Next, the course entered some rolling sections of more heavily-foliaged trail before going weaving in and around tires as they neared the finish. A steady downhill followed by a toe grabbing descent placed runners on the last straightaway before the finish line.
As is typical for RunnersWorld Racing races, the aid stations were loaded with all the goodies racers hearts could desire! And the finish area was stocked with pancakes and even a chili cook-off! Plus, there were so many kind, helpful volunteers to thank!
Results
The 2022 Backyard Bonanza was a race with many returning runners! That said, there were lots of new faces enjoying the trails, too.
Head over to the IYR Results page for searchable results!
Head over to the IYR Results page for searchable results!
What's next?
Head over to our Events page and go follow RunnersWorld Racing on Facebook to stay up-to-date on the latest racing news for Tulsa!
If the Backyard Bonanza sounds like a good time, sign up for the Half 'N Half on December 4th! Run a half marathon on road, or trail, or both for a full!
If the Backyard Bonanza sounds like a good time, sign up for the Half 'N Half on December 4th! Run a half marathon on road, or trail, or both for a full!