[tridinski]

Belgium's Ivo Steyaert, 55, was the final runner of the 72-strong field to drop after 113 yards, and so was credited with an "assist" in the race that is know as much for its camaraderie as its endurance.

"When that last athlete, completes that last yard alone, it will be the cumulation of the efforts of everyone, the other athletes, the crews, even the race staff, everyone will contribute a part everyone will own a piece of that victory," Lake said before the race.

"And this is why the backyard has spread like a virus. It is not just the competition, it is because when we play in the backyard we are all on the same team. We are family."
The race has become a global phenomenon, with events held in 85 countries.