This summer, WR team member, Sarah Funderburk, ran the Backyard Ultra marathon; a form of ultra marathon race where runners run a 4.167 mile loop continuously, each lap must be completely in under an hour, and there is no predetermined end length or time in a backyard ultra - the race continues as long as multiple runners can complete the loop within an hour. Within 28 hours, Sarah covered an incredible 116 miles. Here, Sarah shares her experience, as well as what’s next.
Who are you and how long have you been running with WMN RUN?
I'm an American transplant, originally from South Carolina. I've been living in London since September 2017 and running with WMN RUN since 2018.
What made you want to run the Backyard Ultra?
I signed up for my first ultra before COVID on a whim, a 12 hour, looped event in South Carolina around the holidays. There was a discounted entry of $5, and I thought I could always change my mind for that amount! Then COVID happened, and I had all the time in the world to train. It turned out to be one of the few races that occurred that year. I won the event outright and absolutely loved it. Because of that race, when some friends decided to do a Backyard Ultra the following year, they messaged me because they figured it would be right up my ally. I was intrigued by the last person standing format. Then, when I saw that there were only 30 women signed up for the event, I felt compelled to give it a go and represent. Unfortunately, when the race came around, I was both sick and injured and unable to participate. But, I finally got my chance this year.
What was your favourite part of the race?
Gosh, it was one of the hardest things I have ever done. In retrospect, I have a lot of good memories from it and really do want to try it again sometime. However, I have to admit that I was not a fan during the event. I was miserable and a lot of tears were shed between 24 hours in and 28 hours, when I eventually decided I couldn't run anymore after re-aggravating a prior foot injury.
But back to those good memories! All of the runners and volunteers were absolutely lovely and so encouraging. I went in with high expectations and was pretty cocky to be honest. I think I would have enjoyed the atmosphere and the testing of my physical limits more with a tad more humility. Some highlights: a huge full red moon over the course at night, being the first woman to reach 100 miles, and the taste of a fig roll covered in Biscoff after 27 hours of running.
How many marathons have you done so far?
I'm running Chicago in October, and that will be my 8th time at a marathon start line. I did Chicago in 2017 and made it to mile 24 before ending up in the hospital due to heat stroke, etc. Then I was supposed to Chicago last year but got COVID. So, third time is hopefully a charm, and Chicago 2023 will by 8th completed marathon.
What’s your top tip to someone facing their first marathon?
Don't underestimate the importance of rest and proper fueling. Running is just a tiny bit of the equation. Sleeping a ton and stuffing your face during the training cycle are critical to having an enjoyable race day.
What’s your favourite way to recover?
Post-run cinnamon bun, followed by a bubble bath with some Epsom salts. I may even take a non-alcoholic beer with me to the bath.
What’s next?
Well, there is Chicago but next year the big goal is going to be getting in a 24-hour track race. Which one will tldeoend on if I get into Tokyo marathon for March, but the 24-hour will be my big goal race.