About the Course: The Loch Lothian 5K course will take you through some incredible scenery right in the heart of Midlothian. The course begins and ends at Midlothian Middle School and runners will traverse varied topography, sidewalks, paths, bridges, and trails in a unique and varied course. Along the way runners will enjoy scenery including Loch Lothian Lake, the Midlothian Mines ruins, replica mining headstock, and miles of trails. Runners will have the opportunity to cross 8 bridges and traverse one tunnel (twice). There will be plenty of level running, downhill stretches and hill climbing. Please use caution, be aware and look out for each other.  The 5K.   The Backyard Ultra will use the same course as the 5k.  The courses are scenic but challenging.  Strollers are welcome but there are a couple of spots where the course uses single track dirt trails.  
ABOUT THE BACKYARD ULTRA:  
A backyard ultra is an endurance race format that will take place on the prescribed 5K course.  The race continues until only one runner remains able to complete the loop within the given time frame.
Rules:
1.    Loop Course: The race takes place on a looped 5K course, which begins and ends at a designated point.
2.    Timing: Each loop must be completed within a set time frame, 40 minutes. After completing a loop, runners rest until the start of the next heat.
3.    Start and Finish: The race starts at a predetermined time, usually early in the morning, and continues until only one runner remains. The winner is the last person standing.
4.    Disqualification: Runners are disqualified if they fail to complete a loop within the allotted time frame or if they voluntarily withdraw from the race.
5.    Support Crew: Runners are allowed to have a support crew to assist them with food, hydration, and encouragement throughout the race.
6.    DNFs: Runners who fail to complete a loop within the given time or who choose to withdraw from the race are marked as Did Not Finish (DNF).
7.    Winner: The last remaining runner who completes a loop within the time frame is declared the winner.
Backyard ultras are known for their grueling nature and test the endurance, mental toughness, and strategy of participants. They often foster a sense of camaraderie among runners and support crews as they endure the challenges together.
About the Cause:
K9s for Warriors: This year we are honored to partner with K9s for Warriors, the nations largest provider of service dogs for veterans. Determined to end veteran suicide, K9s For Warriors provides highly-trained Service Dogs to military veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury and/or military sexual trauma. With the majority of dogs coming from high-kill rescue shelters, this innovative program allows the K9/Warrior team to build an unwavering bond that facilitates their collective healing and recovery.  Roughly 20 veterans die by suicide every day, and K9s For Warriors is determined to change that. K9s For Warriors exists because of a fierce dedication to saving the lives of both veterans and rescue dogs. This program is backed by scientific research and empowers veterans who fought for our freedom to live a life of dignity and independence. Graduates of the program are able to live a life that they previously did not think was possible. Many have reunited with their families, gone back to school, found renewed enjoyment in life, and significantly reduced their medications.
About our Honored Military Unit:  Each year the Loch Lothian race chooses a military unit to honor and support.  We are privileged to honor the 2nd Cavalry Regiment for the 2023 race.   The 2nd Cavalry Regiment, also known as the 2nd Dragoons, is an active Stryker infantry and cavalry regiment of the United States Army. The Second Cavalry Regiment is a unit of the United States Army Europe and Africa, with its garrison at the Rose Barracks in Vilseck, Germany. It can trace its lineage back to the early part of the 19th century.  2nd CAV has fought in the defense of freedom in every major conflict since 1836 including the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, World War I, World War II,   the Cold War and Operation Desert Storm.   The motto of the 2nd CAV is Toujours Pret -“Always Ready” and joins a list of units that have been honored in previous years to  include  1st Infantry Division,  82nd Airborne Division,  the 10th Mountain Division,   11th Armored Cavalry “Black Horse” Regiment and the 75th Ranger Regiment.  
  Check out additional information including course maps, and much more on our website: www.lochlothianrace.com