The Backyard Ultra
Support Ryan O’Leary & John Sivori
This December, Ryan O’Leary and John Sivori are taking on one of the most grueling endurance challenges in the running world: The Backyard Ultra. While this race isn’t hosted by Running Toward Change, Ryan is running it to raise funds for our mission—and you can help.
December 13, 2025
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Independent Event (UNofficial RTC race)
What Is a Backyard Ultra?
A Backyard Ultra is not about speed—it’s about survival. This unique race format tests not how fast you can run, but how long you can endure.
- Every hour, on the hour, runners must complete a 4.167-mile loop.
- If they finish the loop within the hour, they rest until the next one begins.
- If they fail to complete the loop in time, they’re out.
- This continues until only one runner remains who can finish a full loop alone—they are declared the winner.
How Can You Support?
We invite you to pledge a donation per mile you think Ryan and John can complete. Whether it’s $1, $5, or more per mile, every dollar goes directly to supporting Running Toward Change’s mission—helping veterans, first responders, and families in crisis.
Funds raised will go toward supporting a 2026 pledge family, chosen and voted on by the RTC Board of Directors.
This is not just a test of physical limits—it’s a chance to show that endurance can change lives.
Pledge a donation
Donations are tax-deductible and help fund activities and provide resources for First Responders in need of mental health services and resources. Fill out the form below to pledge a donation.
All Backyard Ultra pledges and donations are powered by Givebutter. All transactions are encrypted and secured.
Make a per-mile pledge to support Ryan and John as they take on the grueling Backyard Ultra. By completing this form, you agree to donate the selected pledge amount multiplied by the number of miles that Ryan and/or John complete on race day.
Use this form to create a one-time or recurring donation to support the Backyard Ultra event.