Navan ultra-runner representing Ireland at Backyard Ultra World Championship

Hannah McNamara

Navan ultra-runner Keith Russell is representing Ireland at Big Dog’s Backyard Ultra Individual World Championships in Bell Buckle, Tennessee.

The Meath runner currently holds the Irish national record of 89 hours and is ranked 6th in the world having covered an incredible distance of 596.7km (over 24 marathons) in under four days at the ultra race in Retter, Germany last year.

The Big Dog's Backyard Ultra Race began last Saturday morning with 75 runners and is now down to 23 runners, including Keith.

Keith's stamina and focus is unbelievable with 300 miles ran in 72 hours and still going strong.

The Backyard Ultra involves 75 athletes, representing 38 countries, all with the same dream to receive the coveted title of the 'Last Man on Earth'.

Participants run a 4.167-mile loop every hour, and are eliminated if they fail to complete a loop in an hour. The path of the loop is on trails during the day and along a road after dark. The distance of each loop is equal to 100 divided by 24, so that a competitor runs 100 miles for a full day of competition.

This ultra-race is not a test of strength or speed; but a test of the pure will to win.

For live updates of the ultra race click here.

For more in detail updates check out Keith and Annabelle's socials:

Facebook: Keith Russell

Instagram: keith___russell and annabelle_runs