Arjun Kulung Rai and Manju Sunuwar Win Backyard Ultra 2026 Titles

Arjun Kulung Rai and Manju Sunuwar emerged victorious at the Backyard Ultra 2026, setting new course records along the way. Arjun completed 33 laps, establishing a new record, while Manju finished 14 laps. Both champions received a cash prize of NPR 30,000 each.

Kathmandu, 1 Bhadra — Arjun Kulung Rai and Manju Sunuwar secured first place in the Backyard Ultra 2026 organized by Ultra Trails Nepal. Representing EXTEP, Arjun claimed the men’s title and Manju took the top spot in the women’s category. Arjun’s 33 completed laps surpassed the previous course record of 32 laps held by Hemant Rana.

Manju also set a new record by completing 14 laps, breaking the earlier record of 12 laps. Both winners were awarded NPR 30,000 in cash. Cash prizes were also distributed to competitors placing from second to tenth. The competition rules required participants to complete a lap of 6.7 kilometers within one hour.

Competition director Diwakar Budha expressed confidence that such events would help promote tourism in Nepal. According to the organizers, the event saw participation from 65 competitors representing countries including Nepal, France, the United States, Denmark, Norway, and Switzerland. The race started at Matchegaun in Chandragiri Municipality, followed various routes, and concluded back at the starting point. Organizers also announced that the Backyard Ultra World Championship will be held in Pokhara on October 17, 2026.