Brandberg Backyard Ultra kicks off with record turnout

All roads lead to the base of Namibia’s highest mountain this weekend as the Brandberg Backyard Ultra (BBU) officially gets underway in Uis. With every race entry filled by the end of May, the BBU 2025 is set to be the biggest edition of the event since its inception.Now in its fourth year, this uniquely Namibian take on the global Backyard Ultra format is drawing a record number of participants — from elite ultra-endurance athletes, to first-timers aiming to complete their first lap. And that’s the beauty of the Backyard: one distance, many journeys.“BBU is where elites and amateurs line up side by side, hour after hour,” said event organiser Riana Scholtz of Namibia Ultra Trails. “It’s not about speed. It’s about showing up, pushing boundaries, and seeing what’s possible — mentally and physically.”From the first start at 08:00 on Saturday, runners will attempt a 6.7 km loop on the hour, every hour, until only one remains. Last year’s Namibian record of 26 laps (an impressive 174.2 km) was set by André Ross from Swakopmund, who returns this year alongside other top contenders like Erich Goeieman and Danielle Zimny.BBU is proudly sponsored by RMB Namibia, a long-time supporter of grassroots and outdoor initiatives across the country.Also setting a record this year is the overwhelming show of support from Namibian sponsors, who have donated an incredible range of auction items for the BBU 2025 Charity Auction. The silent auction will take place on the Namibia Ultra Trails Whatsapp group and will open on Monday 4 August. Funds will be raised for the Pangolin Conservation & Research Foundation; Ocean Conservation Namibia, as well as Save the Rhino Trust Namibia.Beyond the loops, the weekend promises family-friendly fun, with kids’ activities, a buzzing race village, and community spirit in full swing under the Brandberg sky.Endurance enthusiasts look forward to a weekend filled with grit, camaraderie, and the shared joy of running in one of Namibia’s most special places.For updates, visit www.NamibiaUltraTrails.com/

Brandberg Backyard Ultra kicks off with record turnout

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-12

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Brandberg Backyard Ultra kicks off with record turnout

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-12

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