M*A*S*H Backyard Ultra
Saturday, 17 January 2026
Kāpiti Coast, Wellington
The M*A*S*H Backyard Ultra starting on 17 January 2026 over Wellington Anniversary weekend, is based at Queen Elizabeth Park, Kāpiti Coast.
Complete a Yard (6.71km course), within the hour, every hour, otherwise you’re out. The winner is the runner who completes one more Yard than everyone else. Whether you’re an experienced ultra-runner or just looking to complete a few Yards, all targets are welcome.
The course flows across paddocks, beside the coast, along the historic Yankee Trail, down ex-farm tracks, around wetlands, amongst kahikatea forest remnants, past historical landmarks and has approx. 60m of elevation. This is a self-sufficient event i.e. bring your own shelter, food, hydration and any other gear you need to keep lapping.
Deriving its name from the 1970’s TV series, the M*A*S*H Backyard Ultra (aka Mobile Athlete’s Seaside Haven) pays homage to the young U.S. marines that encamped at QEP to defend Aotearoa between 1942 and 1944. The event has partnered with the local, not-for-profit Kāpiti U.S. Marines Trust, to help keep this significant WWII story alive. Funds raised through the event will aid the restoration of on-site exhibits.
The 2026 event is one of four silver ticket events in NZ. This means the M*A*S*H 2026 winner will have a guaranteed spot on the 15 strong NZ team for the October '26, Backyard Ultra World Team Championship.
Distances/Events
1 x 6.71K per hour - Last one standing format