The Spokane to Sandpoint Relay is a 200.2 mile overnight relay in the style of Hood to Coast. Teams of 12 (or even 6 or 8) runners take turns running “legs” – shorter segments of 3 to 9 miles that link together at exchange points. A total of 36 legs comprise the Spokane to Sandpoint Relay, so for a team of 12, that means you will run three times. Total mileage for each runner averages around 16 miles. Ultra teams, or those with less than 12 members, will run anywhere from 4 to 6 legs. Most teams take about 30 hours to complete the 200.2 miles, which means that teams run through the night. Running in the dark often proves to be a new relay runner’s favorite experience.
Teams of 12 split into two “vans” (Suburbans and minivans work great too) to run the race. While Van #1 runs their first set of legs (#1 – #6), Van #2 will often find a place to eat, do some sightseeing or rest up at the major exchange point where they will start running. After Van #1 finishes their legs, Van #2 runs their first set of legs (#7-12), and Van #1 now gets to eat, sightsee or rest up. This run/rest switchoff continues throughout the race.
Teams are self-supporting, which means they carry their own water and food during the race. We do not have aid stations and water stops every mile, as you can imagine how difficult it would be to coordinate that feat across 200 miles! We do provide aid in critical areas that teams may not be able to reach their runner; these are noted in the race guide.
Perhaps the most unique aspect of a relay like the Spokane to Sandpoint is the team aspect of running an event like this provides. Running is often a solitary sport, but in a relay, it’s all about your team. Our teams get in to the spirit by creating elaborate team names, wearing matching outfits, participating in contests, having spontaneous dance parties, cheering on fellow runners, and decorating their vans. The Spokane to Sandpoint Relay is a race, a celebration, and a vacation all wrapped up in one weekend of running. We invite you to discover what relays are all about, and why teams return year after year to run together!
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Twilight zone, bonding experience, the most amazing time of your life. There are dance parties on the side of the road in the at 7 am. You become family members … MORE
Twilight zone, bonding experience, the most amazing time of your life. There are dance parties on the side of the road in the at 7 am. You become family members with perfect strangers. I love this,race. I look forward to it each year.