After hearing about Ragnar Relay UK for the first time, your first question is most likely “what the hell?” but, the idea of running an overnight road or trail relay will take residence in the back of your brain…
All of a sudden, it becomes a must-do run race. Then, the real questions start popping up. Here you’ll learn all the answers to the most frequently asked questions about running your first Ragnar Relay in the UK.
Do I run the whole the whole distance by myself?
You could be the first, but that’s not usually how we roll. When taking on Reebok Ragnar White Cliffs, you and the squad run three times across 24-ish hours taking on 170-sh miles in total. Along the way, each runner runs from one exchange point to the next, where they exchange their ‘slap band’ with the next runner.
What types of teams are there?
There are two types of teams at a Ragnar: crazy and crazier. Or, more commonly known as a regular team or an ultra team. On regular teams of 10, participants run three legs a piece. For those who want to enter as an Ultra Team of 5, you double up on the legs.
Participants travel in two vans, runners 1-5 are in Van 1 and runners 6-10 are in Van 2. The vans alternate being on course every six legs. On a 5-person ultra team, it’s double the legs and half the number of vans.
How many miles does each person run?
Ragnarian’s will run anywhere from 12 to 26+ miles (or double that on an ultra-team) divided into three sections of 3-11 miles per leg.
How do you know where to go?
If Dorothy and her Oz crew were to write a song about Ragnar, it would go something like “Follow, follow, follow, follow, follow the bright blue signs.” Throughout the 170-ish mile course are reflective signs attached to bright orange cones or posts. When running, you’ll do the touch-and-turn method. So, you’ll run up to the sign, touch it, and then head in the direction it points. You also have the option of bringing along your phone with the downloaded Ragnar app, including a map of the course and that blinking blue dot that tells you where you’re at in comparison to where you’re supposed to be.
Do you have to run at night?
Typically yes. Ragnar are overnight running relay races that take on average 24-36 hours to complete. But depending on the time of year, and daylight savings it is possible that you might not run in the dark. You’ll don your safety vest, headlamp and head off into the dark. And despite your initial fear, you may find, like many others, that the night run is the best part of a Ragnar Relay. It’s a time to bask in peace and quiet, to gaze at the stars and run a little faster than you normally do. If you’re still nervous, you have the option to bring along a pacer or your phone. Next thing you know, you’ll be addicted to runs in the dark.
Do you get any sleep?
Maybe. But not much. You won’t want to miss a moment of fun with your team, and since they’ll be up most of the night, you will too. You may be able to sneak in an hour or four here or there, but don’t expect your typical 8-hours of sleep. Just remember, everything is funnier when you’re sleep deprived.
Where do you sleep?
You will sleep in your vans or some teams rent a hotel room midway through the course close to a major exchange where they can go while the other van runs. Don’t expect your sleep to be all that comfortable. Part of the challenge of Ragnar is pushing yourself on little amounts of sleep.
Does Ragnar provide the vans?
No. Team Captains are in charge of renting the vans, but Ragnar helps you out. We recommend Enterprise, or Spaceship Rentals to get you the best deals on 10-passenger vans, minivans and SUVs (something you never thought you needed until now). Visit the “Plan Your Trip” section of the race-specific page to learn more.
What do I get?
At a Ragnar, you get 170-ish memories (or more) with old friends and new. Plus, a shirt, a medal, food and beverages for all finishers, the chance to get swag from our partners at exchanges and a 24+ hour, unforgettable experience.
