From First-Time Licence to National Success: The Sting Backyard Ultra Buzzes Again for 2026

What began as a bold idea between friends has quickly become one of the most talked about new fixtures on the UK ultrarunning calendar. The Sting Backyard Ultra, hosted by Team Caterpillar and licensed through England Athletics – made its debut in July 2025 during one of the hottest weekends on record and has already nearly sold out for its 2026 edition.

The Sting has captured the imagination of runners from across the country. Its appeal lies not just in the challenge of the backyard format where the last person standing is the winner, but in the perfect blend of meticulous planning, genuine community atmosphere, and the stunning North Yorkshire countryside.

From day one, the event was built on strong foundations. Organiser Dionne Torkington-Craven and Race Director Hollie Jones combined detailed preparation with England Athletics’ guidance, resulting in a fully licensed event that balanced safety and atmosphere in equal measure.

The 4.18-mile loop course, with over 300 feet of elevation, took runners past ancient abbeys, through shaded woodlands, and alongside peaceful rivers, all under the blazing July sun. But The Sting is about more than distance. It’s not a race of speed, but of stamina, fuelling, and strategy.

In 2025, winner Ben Potter completed a staggering 117 miles over 28 hours, emerging as the last person standing. Yet beyond the competition, the event became a celebration of endurance and camaraderie. From live music and evening entertainment to a buzzing campsite and a line-up of handpicked local suppliers, The Sting brought together competitors, spectators, and a 51-strong volunteer team who kept energy levels high throughout.

Reflecting on the success, Dionne credits the team effort and the crucial support from England Athletics:

“From the moment we submitted our licence, we felt guided and supported every step of the way.  The advice from the EA licensing team helped us meet every requirement confidently and ensured our runners had a safe, professional event to enjoy. The process of licensing and booking through EA was seamless and straightforward, giving us confidence at every stage.

"Now, with the 2026 edition already filling up fast, Team Caterpillar is focused on refining the experience while keeping its heart intact: connection, challenge, and community. The Sting Backyard Ultra is proof that with the right support, grassroots clubs can create unforgettable experiences. EA’s licensing framework didn’t just legitimise the event, it helped make it exceptional."

If you or your club would like to host a similar event, you can apply for a road or multi-terrain licence via our RunEvents licensing system.

A licence can be obtained for individual races at an event, a series of races or for a multi-day event.