Welcome Back, Hammer Nutrition as a 2026 Sponsor of Sparks Biggest Little Ultra and Sparks Backyard Ultra!
- Jan 23
- 4 min read
We're thrilled to announce that Hammer Nutrition is returning as a sponsor for the Biggest Little Ultra in 2026. And, for the first time ever, they're also supporting the Sparks Backyard Ultra!
For those who know endurance sports, Hammer Nutrition needs no introduction. But for those just entering the ultra community, let us tell you why having Hammer on board means so much to our races and our runners.
A Legacy of Supporting the Endurance Community
Hammer Nutrition has been a cornerstone of the endurance sports community for decades. While many companies have come and gone, chasing trends and making big promises, Hammer has remained steadfast in their commitment to one thing: creating products that actually work for athletes pushing their limits.
From ultramarathons to century rides, from trail races to Ironman triathlons, Hammer products have fueled countless finish lines. They've been there in the early morning start corrals, stashed in race vests during the hardest miles, and celebrated at finish lines around the world.
What sets Hammer apart isn't just their product quality. It's their deep understanding of what endurance athletes actually need. They know that when you're six hours into an ultra, your stomach is sensitive, your energy stores are depleted, and you need fuel that's going to work, not cause problems.
Why This Partnership Matters
Having Hammer Nutrition sponsor both our 2026 races, the Biggest Little Ultra in October and the Sparks Backyard Ultra in June, means our runners will have access to proven, trusted nutrition products throughout their race experience.
Whether you're attempting your first ultra or you're a seasoned veteran going for a personal best, knowing that quality nutrition is available at aid stations takes one major concern off your plate. You can focus on the run, the strategy, the mental game while Hammer takes care of keeping you fueled.
Education: Hammer's Secret Weapon
One of the things we appreciate most about Hammer Nutrition is their commitment to education. They don't just sell products; they teach athletes how to use them effectively.
Their "5 Secrets to Success" guide breaks down the fundamental principles of endurance fueling in a way that's accessible to beginners but valuable even for experienced athletes. It's not about selling more product; it's about helping athletes understand what their bodies need to perform at their best.
Their "How to Fuel" video series is another incredible resource. The "How to Fuel: 50K Trail Run" video, for example, walks you through exactly what to consume, when, and why, taking the guesswork out of race-day nutrition. For many first-time ultra runners, this kind of guidance is invaluable.
The comprehensive "How to Fuel Guide" goes even deeper, helping athletes dial in their personal fueling strategy based on their specific needs, race distance, and conditions. This isn't one-size-fits-all advice. It's customizable, practical wisdom that comes from decades of working with endurance athletes.
We encourage all our registered runners to check out these resources as they prepare for race day. Understanding your fueling strategy isn't just helpful, it's essential. You can train perfectly, but if you don't fuel correctly, you won't finish strong.
What This Means for Our Runners
For the 2026 Biggest Little Ultra and Sparks Backyard Ultra, having Hammer Nutrition as a sponsor means:
Quality nutrition products available at aid station. Products you can trust when it matters most
Educational resources. Access to proven fueling strategies for your specific race distance
Pre-race guidance. Information about which products to test during training so you're prepared on race day
Test Now, Race Later
One of the most important pieces of advice we can give any ultra runner: never try something new on race day. Your gut needs training just like your legs.
We encourage all our 2026 participants to explore Hammer's product line now, during training. Try their gels, their electrolyte drinks, their recovery products. Find out what works for your body, your pace, and your stomach.
By the time you reach the starting line at Sparks Marina, whether for the June Backyard Ultra or the October Biggest Little Ultra, you should know exactly what you're going to consume, when, and how much.
Hammer's educational resources will help you build that plan. Their products will help you implement it.
A Partnership Built on Shared Values
At the Biggest Little Ultra and Sparks Backyard Ultra, we're committed to creating inclusive, supportive races where every participant, from first-timers to experienced ultra veterans, feels welcome and has the resources they need to succeed.
Hammer Nutrition shares these values. They've built their reputation not on flashy marketing or professional athlete sponsorships alone, but on consistently delivering quality products and genuine support to the entire endurance community.
That's the kind of partner we want representing our races.
Thank You, Hammer Nutrition
To the entire team at Hammer Nutrition: thank you for believing in our races, supporting our runners, and continuing to serve the ultra community with integrity and excellence.
We can't wait to see our 2026 participants crossing finish lines: fueled by Hammer, supported by community, and proud of what they've accomplished.
Ready to join us in 2026?
