Press Materials.

On 25 June 2026, 100 riders will set off from Hamburg on a 700-kilometre adventure through Mecklenburg-Vorpommern — nonstop, with no organised aid stations and no mechanical support. One day later, 75 more riders will follow in the new overnight format "Night Shift" over 250 kilometres. All Ultra spots sold out within six hours of going on sale.

Hamburg's Backyard is a grassroots gravel ultra event that sends riders on a multi-day long-distance route from Hamburg through the countryside of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and back. The idea: your next big adventure isn't six time zones away — it's right on your doorstep.

Highs, Lows, and a Smile at the Finish

Along the way, riders experience every kind of high and low — many are riding a distance like this for the first time, in one go, partly through the night. At the inaugural edition in 2025, just under half of the 65 starters completed the full distance. Yet every single rider came back to Hamburg with a smile — finisher or not. It's not about making it to the end. It's about the experience along the way.

That is the heart of the event: encouraging people to take on an adventure they never thought they could — right on their own doorstep.

Second Edition with a New Format

In 2026, the event grows. The Ultra — 700 kilometres and around 3,000 metres of climbing — remains the centrepiece. New this year is the Night Shift: a 250-km format where riders set off on Friday evening at sunset and return Saturday morning at sunrise — one night, one route, one experience.

Unsupported — But Never Alone

Hamburg's Backyard is an unsupported event. There are no aid stations and no mechanical support along the route. Riders are fully self-sufficient — they plan their own breaks, find their own places to sleep, and solve their own problems. Mutual help between riders is not just allowed but encouraged.

The route follows forest trails, gravel tracks, and quiet back roads through the landscape of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. GPS trackers allow friends, family, and fans to follow riders live. A media team covers the event along the course.

Demand Exceeds Expectations

All 100 Ultra spots sold out within six hours of going on sale — a waitlist is active. 75 riders are expected for the Night Shift. In total, nearly three times as many riders will take part as in the inaugural year.