1.4. Kent Backyard Ultra Series - Volunteer Information

Event: 1.4. Bedgebury
Friday 26 June 2026

Join the Crew

Some people run the final.
Others make it happen.

Join the team that brings the Kent Backyard Ultra Series Final to life.

We’re now building the Crew for Bedgebury.
Key roles will be allocated as we confirm availability.

Hellfire Events isn’t your standard event organiser, and this isn’t a standard running event.

This is something you step into.

As a volunteer, you’re not on the sidelines.
You’re part of the Crew.

What You’re Stepping Into

The Kent Backyard Ultra Series isn’t a typical race.

It’s simple on paper:

4.167 miles every hour
Start on the hour
Finish within 60 minutes to stay in
Miss the bell and you’re done

But this is 1.4. Bedgebury.

The final.

Runners arrive with yards already earned across the series.
Some are chasing a buckle.
Some are chasing their limit.

At some point, it comes down to one.

You’ll see big efforts.
You’ll see tough moments.
You’ll see people go further than they thought they could.

And you’ll be part of the experience that makes that possible.

Your Role on the Day

You step into a clear role. No confusion.

You’ll be part of one of two teams:

Race Control

Welcoming and checking in runners
Supporting them between yards
Keeping the space calm and organised
Being there when people need a steady presence

Course Ops

Positioned out on the route
Guiding runners safely
Watching key points and hazards
Keeping an eye on runners as fatigue builds

This is an active, safety-critical role.
You are part of the Crew responsible for keeping the event moving safely.

What We Ask From You

Nothing complicated.

Be present
Be positive
Look out for people
Speak up if something doesn’t feel right

You don’t need to have all the answers.
You just need to step in, pay attention, and care.

Shift Expectations

This event doesn’t run to a set finish time.

It keeps going until it ends.

We split the Crew into two teams and ask that you commit to a 6, 9, or 12 hour shift.

If you want to stay longer, just let us know.
The longer you stay, the more you become part of it.

Most Crew roles are filled in advance of the event.
Once positions are allocated, we won’t be able to add additional volunteers.

Most people plan for 12 hours.
Most people stay longer.

Event Timeline

To give you a clear picture of what you’re stepping into:

Morning Friday – Set-up begins
Afternoon Friday – Site build continues
From 18:00 Friday – Participants begin to arrive
Evening Friday – Final checks and briefings
Night – Event starts

Through the night and into Saturday – The event continues
Into Sunday (expected) – Final yards play out

The later it gets, the more it matters.

What You Get Back

This isn’t about what you take.

It’s about what you help create.

Moments people will remember long after the event is over.

Alongside that, we’ll look after you:

Fully transferable event credit (12 hours is equivalent to a full Backyard Ultra experience)
Priority access to future opportunities, including sold-out events
A place within the Crew
The chance to meet like-minded people and build real friendships
A volunteer medal
Drinks and snacks during your shift

Free camping is available if you want to stay for the weekend and be part of the full experience.

And if you keep showing up…

Reach 100 volunteer hours and you’ll step into a Community Leader role, with additional opportunities and perks.

The Culture

This matters.

No egos
No cliques
No one left out
Everyone plays a part

You step in.
You support each other.
You look out for the runners.

That’s what makes it work.

Once You’ve Signed Up

Our Crew Coordinator will be in touch to understand your availability and preferred role.

You’ll also be added to the group chat where you can connect with the Crew and ask questions.

Before You Arrive

You’ll receive:

Your role and briefing
Key timings and arrival details
Contact details for the team

Everything you need, before you get there.

Most roles are simple enough to pick up on the day.
And you’ll always be close to someone who can guide you.

What It’s Like

Runners decide how far they go.

You help create the space for that to happen.

This is the final.

There’s more on the line.
More emotion.
More meaning in every yard.

Most volunteers plan for 12 hours.
Nearly everyone stays longer.

Not because they have to.
Because they want to.

You help them decide their story.

And remember…

It’s earned. Never given.