Relay van packing list and logistics

Most 12-runner teams split into two vans of six. The vans leapfrog: while one van runs its six legs, runner after runner, the other van rests, eats, sleeps if it can and drives ahead to meet them.

1. Van 1 runs legs 1 to 6 while Van 2 rests.
2. At the major exchange the vans swap, and Van 2 runs legs 7 to 12.
3. Van 1 rests, then runs legs 13 to 18, and so on to the finish.

Smaller teams and one-day relays work differently. Your race’s page shows its format, and the help on vans explains which van is yours.

You will be in a van for a day or two, so pack for that as well as for running.

1. Running kit for each of your legs, plus spares, since you will be sweaty and may be caught in the rain.
2. Layers for a cold night and something warm to wear between legs.
3. A headlamp, a reflective vest and a rear light if your race runs at night. Check whether your race requires them.
4. Food and drink you like, because you will be hungry at odd hours.
5. Something to sleep on and a phone charger.
6. Gallon zip-top bags for sweaty running clothes, plus body wipes and air freshener.

Your race will publish its own required gear and van rules. Where this list and the race’s handbook differ, follow the handbook.

1. The meet-up: where and when everyone gathers before your start time.
2. The vans: who rides in which, and who is driving each van. Your van follows the legs you run.
3. Lodging: where each van sleeps before and after the race, if you are staying over.
4. Food and snacks: who is bringing what, and when you will stop.
5. The team chat: a WhatsApp or Messenger group, or a group text, that includes every runner.

In Handoff, the captain opens the team menu and chooses Edit logistics. There is room for vehicles, the meet-up, lodging, snacks and a link to the team chat, and everyone on the team can read it. Where?

The hardest part of a relay is knowing when your runner is due at the next exchange, so the next runner is ready. Handoff projects each leg from every runner’s pace, so you can see when to be at an exchange, and the race-day app updates the projection as the team runs.

Planning on the web is free. The Race Pass, one payment per team per race, turns on live timing in the app, and one or more phones can time the team. What does it include? Install the app and sign in the night before, while you have signal. How do I get it?

For how to divide the legs in the first place, see how to assign legs.