Liv Compton Takes on Backyard Ultra for Norway

Liv Compton. Photo supplied: Explore Property.  

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Accom Whitsunday’s Liv Compton has put her running shoes to the ultimate test, representing Norway at the 2026 Backyard Ultra World Team Championship in Hommelvik between October 17th and October 20^th.  

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She joined runners across the globe as national teams of 15 competed simultaneously, each testing their legs, resolve and endurance at their own course on home soil.

“It was quite special to represent Norway alongside 14 of the country’s best backyard runners,” Liv said.  

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“It was special having my mum and sister crew me, and also my uncle and cousin, who I hadn’t seen in over seven years.

“Day and night, there was support out on the course, cheering and waving the flag.”

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Runners were tasked to complete a 6.706-kilometre loop, known as a “yard”, on the hour, every hour. Each new lap began when the clock struck the next hour, leaving runners with whatever time remained to recover, refuel and prepare for the next round.  

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Unlike most running courses, this competition had no finish line, with the challenge continuing until only one runner remained for each country.

Liv wrapped up the race with a whopping 34 laps, running over 228-kilometres combined.  

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Every lap was added towards the team’s tally, with the combined efforts of each country’s 15 runners deciding who takes home the World Team Champion title. It took more than strong legs to keep that tally growing, with runners carefully balancing pace, fuel and precious moments of rest between laps.

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“I gave everything I had on course,” Liv said.  

“I expected tough weather conditions, but didn’t expect it to get to minus degrees the second night.”

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“My PB is 40 hours, so of course there is some disappointment not being able to get a PB this time, but I just have to keep trying.”  

Between raising two children and helping visitors find their perfect getaway at Accom Whitsunday, the competition is demonstration of an extraordinary drive and passion.

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“Good luck, Liv! The Accom Team, Explore Property and the Whitsundays will be cheering you on every yard of the way,” her teammates shared prior to the event.  

“Running to me is something I prioritise, I run and look after myself to be the best mum I can be,” said Liv.  

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“To fit it all in I run before the kids wake up and sometimes on my lunch break at work.

“Other people inspire me as well. If they can do hard stuff there is no reason why I can't do it.”

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