The Relay Solution

Too pressed for time to train for an ultra? A competitive relay race is the perfect middle ground for trail racing

o you’ve heard the siren song of ultra racing and you want the reward of training and racing hard, but you’re not ready for the time commitment demanded by a solo ultra? Ultratrail relay races range from 50k to 200 miles (322 km) or more, so consider that a single leg of a relay could be just as rewarding as the full solo experience (while demanding less of a training commitment). As Brian Gallant, director of Alberta’s Sinister 7 Sports, says, “Everyone has to start somewhere. If you are looking to get into trail running, or to try an ultra, but you aren’t sure about your abilities, a relay team is a great place to start.”

Here’s how to put your team together and make your ultra relay truly memorable.

Pick your team strategically

If you’re just dipping your toe in, then join a group of veterans or form your own novice team. If you’re looking to be competitive on the trails, stack your team with experienced ultrarunners—and don’t forget to give your team a fun name! Competitive relay team members, according to Gallant, “tend to push themselves harder than they would as a soloist, since they are only doing part of the distance. So surround yourself with a positive, fun, determined team and they will return a great experience for you.”

Unless you’re a team of newbies, your team captain should have experience in ultrarunning and should thrive on planning and administration. This person will be the primary communicator to team members, handle the team registration and update members on any changes to the race or race plan.

Choose a race and assign the legs

An ultra-trail race’s level of difficulty depends on many factors, including terrain, weather and elevation gain/loss. Study the race course, the breakdown and description of each leg (many races rate each leg’s difficulty), race rules, transition zone maps, staging areas and gpx files. A leg may be shorter in distance but higher in elevation gain. Pair team members with specific legs with this in mind. Gallant suggests registering with a few committed people who will run at least two legs each.

Create a race plan

Planning for the team’s participation should include at least one virtual meeting to make sure everyone has all the information they need to execute their leg(s) (and to weed out anyone who isn’t fully committed). Gather mandatory gear, organize a (separate) crew to assist with transition zones, managing gear and nutrition for the team and draw up a schedule for race weekend. Keep a short list of runners who can sub in, in the event of someone having to drop out before race day.