A running friend invited me to be her relay partner (we split 10 miles) for this race that is held in Melbourne every year. I was quite unsure what I was getting myself into but after the weekend, I would totally do this race again. I enjoyed the race theme and how organized things were for those participating.
If you're from outside the area, I would recommend making a weekend of it. They had a few hotels listed on the website with special rates. We picked one (Hilton @ Rialto Place) and found that the rate was a couple of dollars cheaper on hotels.com. However, the hotel was quite a distance away so a car is def needed to get to the race site. Race packet pickup was at the local running store , Running Zone. I was able to pick up both my packet as well as my relay partners. They also had a few commemorative shirts for purchase but the race shirt was enough for me. Don't forget to take your photo on the throne! In addition, if you are doing the relay- make sure you have your bracelet in one of the packets - this is used as the "baton" at the halfway point of the race.
The day of the race- make sure to get there early for parking. In our case, I had to get there early since I chose to run the first 5 miles. Make sure to peel your race tracking tag from the back of your race bib and affix to your shoe. The only reason I mention is because I witnessed a woman discover this at the start line.
My friend had to take the bus that was provided for 2nd half relay runners that would transport them to the midway point so they could wait for their partners. The pros of running first are 1) the gorgeous sunrise and 2) the swordfight courtesy of Medieval Times. While I'm not much into the whole Game of Thrones/Sword in the Stone theme- it was really cool to be a part of and made the race somewhat enjoyable. Some runners really get into it with costumes too. At the midway point, there is someone there to cut the racing tag off your shoe and you'll need to give your partner your bracelet before they head off to complete the remaining 5 miles. You have to walk a little ways to catch the bus that will take you to right before the finish line where you will wait for your partner so you both can cross together. I loved this. I have done one other relay before this which was not as organized and I felt that the person running the 2nd half got all the glory running through the finish line. It was a nice change to do a race where both relay partners get equal attention.
After the race, there are plenty of photo opportunities to commemorate the day. Make sure to take advantage of.
I really enjoyed this racecation and plan to be back next year for the relay. read more