
Shawn O’Hara reaches the finish line in his 102 mile run 24 hours. ECA Review/Submitted
Shawn O’Hara completed a remarkable feat on July 13, running 102 miles in 24 hours during a self-organized event at Sylvan Lake known as the “BackYard Ultra.”
O’Hara’s running journey began in 2017, and by 2018, a friend had encouraged him to participate in his first Ultra Marathon, the Sinister 7. The experience was transformative, offering significant benefits for his physical and mental health.
In 2020, O’Hara took part in a virtual marathon with his friend Scott. The duo aimed to complete 24 loops – equivalent to 102 miles – but fell short.
Reflecting on that experience, O’Hara acknowledged that his training had been insufficient and that he learned valuable lessons for future attempts.
Since then, O’Hara has completed a half marathon, a full marathon and approximately seven Ultra Marathons.
This year, O’Hara dedicated himself to rigorous training, often running with a weighted vest to strengthen his knees.
On July 13, he tackled the BackYard Ultra alone, driven by a personal goal rather than participation in an organized event. This time, O’Hara successfully completed 24 loops, running 102 miles – the longest distance he has run to date.
O’Hara credits his competitive drive and the support of his crew, including friends Scott and Corrine, family and his wife and children, as key motivators.
His wife, who passed away in 2019 after battling cancer, remains a significant source of inspiration, alongside his children and fellow Ultra runners.
O’Hara, who was born and raised in Stettler, Alta., spent most of his life in the community, aside from his college years in Red Deer and a 14-year stint in Blackfalds before returning to Stettler in 2015. As a Stettler resident he also coaches lacrosse, hockey and soccer.
Looking ahead, O’Hara has set his sights on the 2025 Canadian Death Race Solo – a gruelling 125 kilometre challenge and the 2026 Sinister 7 Solo, a 100-mile race.
Cheryl Bowman
Multimedia reporter
ECA Reporter