Our town of Potchefstroom is set to host an extraordinary event that merges endurance, strategy, and a touch of whimsy. The Mooirivier Beskerming Potch Big Backyard Ultra (PBBU), slated for April 20, 2024, invites athletes and adventure-seekers to partake in a contest of perseverance and willpower. This unique event is far from your typical marathon or ultra-marathon; it's a backyard ultra that tests the limits of the human spirit.
Event Overview
Participants will gather at Lekwena Wildlife Estate to face not just each other, but themselves. The PBBU is not just a race; it's an odyssey that requires participants to complete a 6.7 km loop, known affectionately as a "yard", within one hour. This challenge continues hour after hour, with each yard beginning precisely 60 minutes after the last. It's a relentless cycle of run, rest, and repeat, pushing runners to their ultimate limits.
Unique Rules and Traditions
What sets the PBBU apart are its unique rules and the quirky, mystical presence of The Unicorn. This mythical figure embodies both the challenge and the camaraderie of the event. Runners must start each yard within the designated corral, adhere to strict no-aid rules, and navigate the course without the use of artificial aids. The whimsical yet demanding nature of the PBBU is further emphasized by traditions like the Spanner of Shame and the Dis of Disgrace, playful yet poignant reminders of the event's ethos.
Registration Fee Information
Participants eager to test their endurance can choose from three categories: Half PBBU, Marathon PBBU, and Full PBBU, with entry fees ranging from R180 to R400. The full PBBU entry includes an unlimited number of yards and a coveted race garment, ensuring that runners are fully equipped to face the challenge. Additional merchandise like T-shirts and trucker caps are also available for purchase, allowing participants and spectators alike to keep a piece of the PBBU spirit with them.
How to Enter
Prospective participants can secure their spot in this unparalleled endurance challenge by visiting the official PBBU website. Here, runners can find all necessary information, from ticket pricing to event rules. Moreover, the PBBU maintains an active presence on Facebook, providing updates and fostering a community of past, present, and future runners.
The Mooirivier Beskerming Potch Big Backyard Ultra is more than just a race; it's a testament to human resilience and the power of community. With its unique format, whimsical traditions, and the mystical allure of The Unicorn, the PBBU is set to be an unforgettable experience. Whether you're an endurance athlete looking for your next big challenge or a spectator eager to witness the limits of human endurance, the PBBU promises to be an event like no other.
