Seven Canadian runners continue in the 2026 Backyard Ultra World Team Championships, with eight of the 15-person squad exiting. Canada ranks sixth globally, according to race director Kara Leinweber. Nine athletes reached the 200-mile mark, with Sandra Auger leading Canadian finishers at 342 km.

The team's performance has been emotional, but they show new energy, per Leinweber. The format requires runners to complete a 6.706-km loop hourly, with points added for each yard. Japan, the U.S., Belgium, and Australia lead after 52 hours. Canada finished eighth in 2024, with Belgium winning. Read more racing coverage.

The competition involves 67 countries, each with a separate race location. Teams of up to 15 compete simultaneously worldwide. Each country's race continues until one runner remains. Follow the official leaderboard or Lewiston Ultra Events on Instagram for updates. Related: Andrew Davies Sets Fastest Canadian Marathon Debut Record.

This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Canadian Running. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.