On August 2nd 2025 I had the chance to photograph the Brandberg Backyard Ultra for the second year in a row. This event has quickly become one of my favourites to capture and it is not hard to see why. Set in the heart of Damaraland with the magnificent Brandberg Mountain as a backdrop, the atmosphere is something special.
What is a Backyard Ultra?
For those who have never heard of a backyard ultra, it is one of the most grueling race formats out there. Runners complete a 6.7 km loop every hour on the hour. You have to finish within the hour or you are out. The race continues until only one runner remains. It sounds simple but it is a true test of endurance and mental strength. What makes the Brandberg Backyard Ultra unique is not only the rugged route but also the scenery. The course winds through the dramatic desert landscape with the Brandberg looming in the distance.
The event is more than just the main ultra. This year saw 58 competitors taking on the full challenge, plus a number of runners in the Challenger event who completed six laps, and a big group of fun runners who did just one loop. The camp buzzed with support from family members, fellow competitors and spectators. Free beer from Skeleton Coast Brewery kept the mood light and the conversations flowing.
The Winners
This year’s race was won by Andre Ross after an incredible display of endurance and 21 laps. Second place was shared between Kim Sontag and Eric Goeieman with 20 laps, and Kim also taking the ladies title. The determination on display from all the runners was inspiring. Watching them push through hour after hour in the desert heat is something you cannot help but respect.
Why I Love Photographing This Event
Photographing a backyard ultra is a completely different experience from most other races. In other events you might see an athlete once as they pass and never see them again. Here, the out-and-back loop means I can walk parts of the route and catch runners multiple times throughout the day. I get to see the full story unfold — from fresh faces and easy smiles in the morning to the grit and exhaustion that sets in later.
It is also a great chance to interact with the runners, cheer them on and be part of the event energy. The Damaraland landscape offers endless creative possibilities. The changing light, the dusty trails and the towering presence of the Brandberg make every shot feel unique.
One of my favourite moments this year came right at the start. I was at the top of the first hill as the morning light spilled over the terrain. No sweat yet, no signs of fatigue. Everyone was still chatting, taking selfies and filming their run. It is the calm before the storm and it makes for some of the most genuine photos of the day.
A Personal Connection
This event is more than just work for me. My good friend Naude Dreyer, one of the founders of Ocean Conservation Namibia, was competing again this year. Being able to photograph him on the route, cheer him on and later share images he could use for social media was a real highlight. I also knew many of the other runners from my hometown of Walvis Bay, which made the whole weekend even more social and enjoyable.
The Brandberg Backyard Ultra is a race that tests the limits of human endurance but it is also an event full of camaraderie, support and community spirit. Photographing it is not just about capturing athletes running in a beautiful location — it is about telling the story of a shared challenge and the people who take it on. I am already looking forward to next year.