The event is held in Manotick, Ontario, and brought to life by InStride Running, led by Laura Glasper and Danielle Guffie, alongside Summer Milley, and Jessica and Charlie Cullen of 692 Coffee & Bar. It’s a race founded by friends who share a belief in the power of showing up for one another—on the road, on the trail, and in everyday life.

The MBU draws its heart from the origin story of 692 Coffee & Bar. Before it became a gathering place, 692 was just an idea passed between friends—Laura, Jess, Danielle, and Charlie—during late-night conversations, shared runs, and moments when life asked for a little more courage. They believed that Manotick needed a place where people felt safe, known, and welcome. So in 2019, they built one. Since then, 692 has become a home for neighbours, a refuge for regulars, and a spark for friendships that might never have happened otherwise.

The Manotick Backyard Ultra was born from that same heartbeat.

It began with a question: What if a running race could do the same thing a great community space does?

 What if it could bring people together, lift them up, and remind them of what they’re capable of?

A backyard ultra is the perfect metaphor: a loop that starts over and over, a challenge that strips away ego, a format where runners lean on one another as much as they compete. It’s a test of the body, yes—but even more, it’s a testament to the spirit of a community that refuses to let anyone run alone.

At the MBU, every loop is cheered. Every effort is recognized. Every runner, volunteer, neighbour, and spectator becomes part of the story.

Because in Manotick, we don’t just run—we run for each other.

Welcome to the Manotick Backyard Ultra.

 A race built by friends.

 Fueled by community.

 Powered by the belief that ordinary people can do extraordinary things when they feel they belong.

With love,

Jess, Charlie, Laura, Dani, & Summer