You’ve heard of the Backyard ultra, a form of ultramarathon race where competitors must consecutively run the distance of 6.706 kilometres (4.167 mi) in less than one hour. They must repeat this every hour until only one person completes a full lap – the last one standing. But have you heard of a front yard event?

Hourglass is the world’s only front yard race, a unique challenge where every second counts. It was held last Saturday at the Royal Cornwall showground in Cornwall, and takes place annually.

Unlike traditional races, Hourglass challenges participants not only to run “their” fast but to run smart. With a race format where time gradually “runs out,” competitors must pace themselves, strategize, and push their limits — all while racing against the relentless countdown of the clock. The concept is that there is a two mile loop and for the first loop you have 30 minutes to complete the distance, if you don’t complete in time then you are out. The second loop starts as soon as the first finishes so the only rest time you have is dependent on how fast you run to gain those seconds/minutes. The second loop has a time limit of 29 minutes and so on until the last runners time out.

“This isn’t just about speed — it’s about endurance, strategy, and mental toughness,” said John Yelland, Event Director of Mad Hatter Sports Events who organise Hourglass.

“Whether you’re an elite runner or someone looking to challenge yourself in a new way, this event offers a unique experience unlike any other.

“It’s a really fun event for most of the day with runners having to conserve energy for later, then it gets brutal. One of the best things is that those runners who have timed out stay to encourage those still going. In the end you usually end up with 2/3 runners racing each other to win. It gets very exciting.”

“There’s a lot of strategy involved and it’s all about getting your pacing right.”

This year’s event was won by Connor Peters who had to run a 6.5 minute mile pace to complete lap 17 (35 miles).

Event Information

• Innovative Hourglass Format where two-mile lap has a reducing time limit for each lap.
• Open to all abilities, from beginners to elite athletes
• You get to run with people that you would never normally get to run with
• Exclusive medals and prizes for finishers
• Stalls by race partners, food stalls, music and massage
• You get to see the winners win and encourage them on those final tough laps

Spectators are encouraged to come out and enjoy the atmosphere, cheer on the runners, and take part in the festivities.