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Race Briefing — Why It’s Important

The race briefing notes isn’t just a formality — it’s essential. It covers the rules, safety information, course layout, timing structure, and everything you need to know to stay in the event. Reading it carefully ensures you understand how the Backyard Ultra format works, what’s expected of you each loop, and how to keep yourself safe and prepared throughout the days and nights. The runners who know the race briefing notes, are the runners who stay in the game longer. 


Run the Yard.
Beat the Hour.
Repeat.


Every loop is a battle. Every hour is a reset. You don’t race the field — you race the clock, the course, and the voice in your head telling you to stop. Conquer the yard, claim the hour, and line up again. Don't be 'Outfoxed' by the course.


'ONE MORE, NO MORE'

ENTRY INFO

Listed below is all the information regarding entering the race and what your entry includes. 
Entry Details for BYU [Included in your entry fee]
- Entry into the event
- Fully marked course
- Personalised race numbers (before a certain date)
- Outfoxed Medal 
- Aid stations stocked with electrolytes (fizz), water, fruit, lollies and other yummy goods
- Professional first aid and medical support on course and the event HQ
- Professional electronic timing with full category results

OUTFOXED MEDALS


Why you get it?


Because you showed up ready to fight, ready to grind out "just one more," but Deep Creek knew better. The course waited, watched, and picked its moment. It didn't beat you with brute force - it outfoxed you with patience, terrain, darkness, and the quiet little voice that finally slipped through your armour.


You didn't fail.

Deep Creek just outfoxed you.



RACE BIBS

You will be allocated a number to run under. 

Will your number be the last one left standing?

          MANDATORY GEAR LIST


Mandatory Gear that must be carried on course:       
MANDATORY GEAR
[you must carry at all times]
- Mobile Phone (for photos and to call us if you need us)

- Head light + Batteries (Race Director will tell you when to pick up)


- SNAKE Compression Bandage (Minimum Dimensions 7.5cm Wide x 2.3m Long Unstretched). 


NOTE:2025 We changed over to SNAKE BANDAGE ONLY
Personal bags are to be left at the race hub, there will be a tent there. If you don't have your own 3x3m Market style tent.
Event organisers are not responsible for your personal bags. Please label them with your name and number. Put in a zipper bag (eg. like a coles bag)



Pre-Event Schedule

01st July 2026

Entries Open 

30th July 2026

50% Refund Closes


Advised by email before 11:59pm 30th July


No monetary refund if advised after 30th July 11:59pm

30th October 2026

Check-In (Option 1) - Friday

Race Hub at event: Opens 10am for  tents to go up
Settlers Inn (Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie)
4-8pm to check-in and collect your bib

31st October 2026

Check-In Late (Option 2) - Saturday


Race Hub - at event from 5am


You can do late check-in at Race Hub morning before the race.


Event Start


7am start (Loop 1)

RECOMMENDED GEAR, SUPPORT CREW, MILESTONES

Recommended Gear – Deep Creek Backyard Ultra

To stay comfortable, safe, and prepared for the unpredictable conditions at Deep Creek, we recommend runners bring the following:


Shelter & Seating

  • Gazebo, tent, or swag (max size 3 m × 3 m)
  • Must be securely pegged or weighted — no string lines
  • Comfortable chairs (if you have support crew) and table to put your nutrition and hydration bottles on.



Weather Protection

  • Waterproof rain jacket, hat, buff, sunscreen, maybe sunglasses, as will be sunny throughout the day for support crew.
  • Warm gear for night or rest periods: sleeping bag to sit in to keep warm, hoodie, blanket,  jacket/s, beanie, gloves
  • Space Blanket (essential for preventing hypothermia)



Lighting

  • Battery-powered lights for your tent or gazebo (no mains power available)
  • Backup head torch/s and batteries. Some way to charge (eg. battery), if using rechargeable batteries and watch to track your laps.



Recovery

  • Muscle cream, massage gun, roller, yoga mat, or similar recovery tools



Nutrition & Hydration

  • Tables 
  • Ice in esky, to help if swelling and heat
  • Plenty of water to refill bottles. eg water drum 20L
  • Soft cup or flask – this is a cup-free event
  • Reusable bowl and spoon
  • Variety of easy-to-digest foods. We have our own food trailer cooking hot 



Clothing

  • Spare clothes and shoes
  • Towels and extra socks



First Aid & Personal Care

  • Personal first-aid kit
  • Blister kit, sunscreen, lip balm, lube 


Whistle attached to your pack for safety

  • Being well-prepared will help you stay comfortable, recover faster, and keep your momentum strong throughout the event. While not mandatory, these items are highly recommended for a safe and enjoyable Deep Creek experience.

Support Crew – Deep Creek Backyard Ultra


The Deep Creek Backyard Ultra thrives on community spirit — your support crew plays a huge role in keeping runners motivated and the atmosphere alive. Crews are the heartbeat of the race hub, helping their runners recover, reset, and keep going strong.


Crew Setup

  • Support crews must stay within the race hub area — no access to the course.
  • Bring a 3 m × 3 m gazebo or tent, securely pegged or weighted (no string lines).
  • Include chairs, tables, and lighting — battery-powered only (no mains power).
  • Keep your area tidy and safe; no gear or cords across walkways.


Crew Role & Conduct

  • Encourage everyone — not just your runner. The backyard format thrives on shared energy and positivity.
  • Assist only between loops — no aid or exchanges while runners are on course.
  • Respect race officials and volunteers — follow all instructions promptly.
  • Stay clear of the start Dead Zone area during loop starts.
  • No pacing — runners must complete each yard solo.
  • Children welcome, but must remain under direct adult supervision.


Crew Essentials

  • Food, drinks, and snacks for yourself — the official aid station is for runners only.
  • Weather protection: rain jacket, hat, sunscreen, warm layers for night hours.
  • Lighting: headlamp or lantern for early morning or night loops.
  • Rubbish bags — leave no trace.
  • First aid basics: bandages, blister care, sunscreen, lip balm.
  • Entertainment: music, games, or cheering props to keep spirits high.
  • Space blanket for emergencies or to help warm your runner post-loop.
  • Facilities: Both runners and their crews have access to the toilets during the event.


Atmosphere & Community

  • Be part of the vibe — clap, cheer, ring cowbells. The hub will have music playing.
  • Help create a welcoming, inclusive environment for all runners.
  • Share encouragement, lend a hand, and celebrate every loop completed.
  • Keep the hub positive — your energy fuels the runners’ resilience.



Remember: The backyard ultra is as much about community as endurance. Your support, enthusiasm, and respect for the rules help make Deep Creek an unforgettable experience for everyone.

Deep Creek Backyard Ultra – Milestones



1 Yard = 1 loop 6.706km



  • 1 Yard — 6.706 km


  • 8 Yards — 53.6 km [Ultra]


  • 10 Yards — 67.06 km 


  • 15 Yards — 100.5 km


  • 24 Yards — 160.9km [100 Miles] 


  • 36 Yards — 241.4km [150 Miles]


  • 48 Yards — 321.8km  [200 Miles]


  • 72 Yards — 482.8km [300 Miles]


  • 82 Yards — 549.89 km


How many runners Outfoxed the course and completed the last lap solo? 


YES.
ONE MORE, NO MORE
LET'S GO!!!

REFUNDS, CANCEL, RACE RULES, AUDIO DEVICE RULES, PINS, CUPS

If you can no longer participate in the event please refer to 'Refund Policy' below to check your available options.
Please note the event will not be cancelled due to rain. Race organisers will review the track conditions leading up to the event and update everyone via the event website. 
Event Postponement & Cancellation Policy Due to Natural Disasters or Other Circumstances.
In the event that our scheduled event is cancelled or postponed due to a natural disaster or restrictions imposed by Forestry Corporation, we understand the disappointment this may cause.
Please note the following policies regarding refunds and rescheduling:
1. Cancellation Reasons: Events may be cancelled due to severe weather conditions, natural disasters, or directives from Forestry Corporation for safety reasons or forest closures.
2. Refund Policy:
- No Refunds: If an event is cancelled due to a natural disaster, no refunds will be issued.
- Refunds Available: If the event is postponed, all entries will be transferred to the new date. If attendees cannot attend the new date, there will be an option to transfer to the following year, or there may be a refund option available upon request.
3. Rescheduling: Our team will work closely with the Forestry Corporation to establish a new date for the event. We will notify all registered as soon as rescheduling is confirmed. We appreciate your understanding and support in navigating these unforeseen circumstances. Your safety and experience are our priorities, and we look forward to providing you with a memorable event in the future.
REFUND POLICY
If you do not want to transfer your entry to another person and would prefer a refund of your entry fee we are able to provide:
50% refund if you advise us by email before the late entry fee date (11:59PM 30th July 2026).
No monetary refund if you advise us after 11:59PM 30th July 2026.
DO NOT ASK AFTER THIS DATE [Dates are in place for a reason]
Log back into your entry and cancel through there.
In the event that the event course is, in the opinion of the event organisers, unsafe (for example by reason of heavy rain, high winds, bush fires, "acts of god"), organisers may, in their sole discretion, attempt to re-route the course, find an alternative shortened course or cancel the event. Organisers also reserve the right to cancel the event for any other reason which may include but is not limited to terrorism and war. If the event is cancelled, re-routed or shortened, no refund or transfer to another event will be made. Due to the scale of the event and travel & commitment involved by competitors, it is not practical to reschedule the event to any other weekend.

If you have Covid-19 at the time of the event or leading up to the event. Your ticket will not be transferred to the following year.

OFFICIAL RACE RULES:
1.You must complete the marked course on foot under your own power on the hour, every hour until there is only one runner left to start again. This is a backyard format. One lap every hour and be back and ready to toe the start line again at the start of the next hour. If you don't make it back before the next hour to start again, you are out of the race.
2.Race directors have final authority on any question that may arise during all Races
3.Your race number must be visible at all times on the outside of your clothing and on the front of your body over your belly or chest. It must not be worn on your pants or leg. Do not cover over your race number with any backpack strap or article of clothing such as thermal top or waterproof jacket. 
4.You must not fold, cut or change your race number in any way. It must be worn as is, unfolded.
5.Your bag timing tag must be attached securely to the back of your running backpack or, if not wearing a running backpack, to the back of your t-shirt. 
6.Official Race Rule: Audio Device & Electronic Hardware Ban (Rule 6 has been written in full detail below for understanding).
7.If you need first aid help on the course you must use the phone numbers on your 'participant emergency instructions card' to contact the event safety team who will arrange to retrieve you. Supporters, spectators or any unauthorised persons are not allowed to enter the event course to collect runners.
8.Runners are expected to assist competitors who have injured themselves. If you come across an injured runner, provide assistance and ask a fellow runner to inform race officials at the next intersection. Times will be adjusted to compensate for any losses.
9.Outside assistance on course is not permitted. Assistance at check points and from event staff is ok.
10.The participant is responsible for the actions of their support crew. Support crews must comply with all instructions from event staff and officials. The participant may be penalised or disqualified for actions or breaches of the rules by their support crew.
11.You must stay on the marked course. Short cuts are not permitted. If you get lost return to the last sighted marking.
12.You must carry your own mandatory gear at all times during the event. Random gear checks may be performed during the event. 
13.You must obey directions of checkpoint staff or course marshals and withdraw from the race if you miss any time cut-offs at checkpoints or on course.
14.Each participant must be checked-in at all checkpoints and have your name & number recorded.
15.Littering is prohibited.
16.Spectators are not permitted to run with or pace runners.
17.Pacers are not permitted.
18.Only Event officials are allowed to enter the event course to collect runners.
19.The event organisers reserve the right to disqualify a runner for behavior that is considered unsporting.
20.Breaking any of the rules may incur a time penalty, disqualification or pre-race withdrawal. Any such penalties are at the organisers’ discretion and are final
21.Medical assistance during the race
- In order to ensure race safety, race headquarters will prepare and arrange for rescue and medical assistance during the race.
- First aid staff have the authority to stop a racer from continuing the race. This will be done by taking off the racer's bib.
- Depending on your condition, an emergency evacuation may be required. This evacuation will be at the expense of the person being rescued. For overseas racers, it is strongly recommended that you obtain adequate travel insurance coverage

Dropping Out Of The Race: 
- If you decide to drop out of the race, you must notify race staff. Please remove your race bib so that race headquarters can be notified. Once you've dropped out of the race, you will not be able to re-start.
- Tell an aid station staff that you've decided to drop out of the race.
- If you are able to move on your own, please make your way to the closest aid station (either return to the aid station you just left or go the next aid station). If you are unable to move without assistance, please tell pass-by runner to contact race headquarters.

Runners Responsibilities: 
- You understand the unique nature and requirements of competing in an long distance running race. You will be running all day and have undertaken the necessary training to compete in such a race.
- You will be responsible for yourself and have the ability to deal with any problems that may be encountered during the race.
- You are able to deal with, on your own without assistance, deteriorating weather conditions (raining, strong winds) and other troubles expected when traveling across road & hill.
- You are able to deal with extreme fatigue, internal organ and digestive problems, muscle pain, mild physical injuries and psychological problems on your own.
- You are fully aware that when participating in an outdoor activity such as this race, your safety depends on your own skills and abilities.

You are expected and encouraged to socially interact with other competitors.


- Policy Definition
To maintain the highest standard of safety for participants, staff, the general public, and local wildlife within the forest ecosystem, Coastal Track and Trail Runners operates our events with a zero-tolerance policy regarding audio devices.
- Prohibited Equipment
The wearing or carriage of any audio-capable hardware on the head, neck, or ears is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:
• All Headphones & Earbuds: Over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, wired, or wireless.
• Bone Conduction Technology: Any device utilizing bone conduction (e.g. Shokz), regardless of whether the ear canal remains open.
• Smart Wearables: Audio-integrated glasses, headbands, or hats.
• External Speakers: Any device broadcasting sound from a pack or belt.
NOTE:MOBILE PHONES
MUST BE CARRIED FOR PHONE CALLS ONLY (MANDATORY GEAR - SAFETY COMMUNICATION DEVICE)
- Scope of the Ban
• The "Power Status" Irrelevance: A device is considered in violation of the rules if it is worn on the person, regardless of whether it is powered on, playing media, or being used for communication.
• Situational Awareness: Claims of being able to hear ambient noise while wearing a device will not be accepted as a valid defence. The ban is absolute to ensure uniform enforcement by race marshals.
- Mandatory Exceptions
The only exception to this rule is for medically prescribed hearing aids. If a participant requires hearing aids, they may be asked to provide medical verification if the device resembles commercial earbuds.
- Enforcement & Penalties
a) On-the-Spot Disqualification (DSQ): Any participant observed by a race official, marshal, or sweep timer wearing a prohibited device at any point from the start line until they cross the finish line and after if found in photos wearing or holding devices will be disqualified immediately.
b) No Warnings: Due to the safety implications in a forest environment (emergency vehicle access, animal encounters, and runner overtaking, general public), no warnings will be issued. The official’s decision is final and not subject to appeal.
- Common Asked Question about Bone Conduction Technology:
This rule is a hardware-based ban, not a volume-based one.
While we understand runners position that bone conduction technology allows for ambient noise, our policy does not distinguish between different types of audio transmission. The presence of the device on the head/neck is the violation. This ensures our marshals can enforce safety rules consistently without having to test the volume or technology of every participant. If the device is worn during the event, disqualification will stand to ensure fairness and safety for all competitors who adhered to the mandatory safety briefing."
Please Note, this is a Coastal Track and Trail Runners Race event safety rules for all events we run. It explicitly prohibit the 'wearing of any audio devices.' This rule is a hardware-based ban, not a volume-based one.
Race Directors decision is final. RD’s


All CTTR events are pin and cup free. 

  • Which means we do not supply pins for bibs.
  • We do not supply cups on course.


Bring your own if you require. We do have soft reusable cups and race belts for sale at check-ins.



Mandatory Gear Check
All competitors must carry their mandatory gear on course for safety. 

You need to check-in Saturday before the start to collect your bib. You must do the following when you arrive on race morning:

Merch Table: Pick up any gear you have purchased with entry. You will also be able to purchase mandatory gear and event shirts.  [visa / eftpos available / cash]
Check-in: You then make your way to the check-in table to collect your bib. 
Late Entry: If event is not sold out, as event is capped in numbers.
You will then receive: 
1. Race Number [Bib Tag]: Your race number must always be visible on the outside of your clothing and on the front of your body. It must not be worn on your pants or leg. Do not cover over your race number. Do not fold, bend, your race number. It must be worn as is. Consider using a race belt to attach your number to.
[We do not supply pins for your bib]
2. Runners Emergency Instructions: In case of an emergency, please ring the numbers on the back of your bib. DO NOT ring your partner/family/support crew and ask them to talk to the race director or first aid. The runner MUST follow the instructions on the back of bib and contact one of these numbers.
3. Merch Shirts: Shirts can be purchased at the Check-in tent.
4. Transition Tents: Transition tent can be put up Friday afternoon. You can put up our own 3m x 3m Market style tent (this helps to fit in the hub area). You can use it to put your chair, table, swag for example there.
Drop bags are to be left at the Start/Finish HQ aid station tent, if you are not putting your own transition tent up.  



One yard doesn’t make you, 
but one missed yard ends you.

       Directions - Parking


ETR RACE DIRECTIONS TO CARPARK


Please use Pembrooke Village Road, Pembrooke to get to the race hub (Do not use Reid's Road).

You will go past orange trees on the right. Keep driving until you drive into the forest. Once you drive into the forest, it is about 400m down the road to the car park. 

Park behind the last car, left or right. Park as far as you can off the road. We need a truck to get up the middle of the cars.






ON COURSE NUTRITION

On course nutrition for DCBYU is Hammer Nutrition. We would like to thank Hammer Nutrition for being on-board from the very beginning. 

Available on course:

  • Endurolyes Fizz (flavour varies)
  • Gels have been placed in race bags (some on course)



Knowledge Centre

How Hammer Thinks

Serious Endurance Athletes know that knowledge is power.  This area of our site contains information on endurance fuels, supplements, diet, and much much more – all to help you with your endurance training and racing.  We want you to get faster, stronger, and healthier by being better informed.

While reading this information, please keep in mind that all views expressed will always be biased in favor of eating a healthy diet, hard training that emphasizes quality over quantity, and prudent supplementation to improve health and performance. But above all, we  believe there are no short cuts, and success can only come from hard work.

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