Arjun Kulung Rai and Manju Sunuwar win Backyard Ultra 2026
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Arjun Kulung Rai and Manju Sunuwar won the men's and women's titles at the Backyard Ultra 2026 event in Nepal.
- Rai set a new course record by completing 33 laps, surpassing the previous record of 32 laps.
- The race was organized by Ultra Trails Nepal and sponsored by Xtep.
Arjun Kulung Rai and Manju Sunuwar emerged victorious at the Backyard Ultra 2026, clinching the men's and women's titles respectively. The challenging event, organized by Ultra Trails Nepal, tested the endurance of participants in a unique format. Rai, competing for Xtep, delivered a record-breaking performance in the men's category. He completed an impressive 33 laps, setting a new course record and surpassing the previous benchmark of 32 laps held by Hemanta Rana. Sunuwar secured the women's title, showcasing her own remarkable stamina. The Backyard Ultra format requires participants to complete a 4.1167-mile loop within a set time, with the last runner standing declared the winner. This edition saw intense competition, highlighting the growing popularity of ultra-endurance events in Nepal. Ultra Trails Nepal's organization of the event aims to promote trail running and ultra-marathons within the country, attracting both local and potentially international athletes to its scenic landscapes.
Arjun Kulung Rai and Manju Sunuwar won the menโs and womenโs titles respectively at Backyard Ultra 2026, organised by Ultra Trails Nepal.
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