For 2010, The Ragnar Relay Series Is In!

SALT LAKE CITY, Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- You've conquered 5 & 10ks, run the local half or full marathon, and maybe even finished a triathlon or two.  Why not try something new…and better if you ask us? If your 2010 resolution involves training for a new running race or a truly unique experience, rally your friends and run a Ragnar Relay.  

The Ragnar Relay Series is the largest overnight running relay series in the nation.  In 2010 the Ragnar Relay Series has 10 relays on schedule.  Race locations include: Utah, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Southern California, Central Florida, Minneapolis, Seattle, New York, Boston, & Washington D.C.

Visit www.ragnarrelay.com for race dates and exact locations.

So what exactly is a Ragnar? Lets start with big mileage.  Each race ranges between 180 to 200 "easier than you think" miles. Throw in 2 vans, 11 friends (including you makes 12) and 24 hours and you have yourself one heck of a relay race.  This is big mileage, beautiful countryside, and teamwork at its finest.  There is no shortage of face paint, crazy costumes or decked out rides. Don't forget to add some chub rub, a spirit tunnel and non-stop high fives and you're stirring up a recipe for Awesome!  This is Ragnar.

You're getting the idea now.  So how do Ragnar Relays work? It's really quite simple. Your relay team will consist of 12 members. During the relay, each team member runs three legs, each leg ranging between 3 - 8 miles and varying in difficulty. So, from the elite runner down to the novice jogger, it's the perfect relay race for anyone. Each team is responsible for providing two support vehicles, with six runners in each vehicle. The first vehicle will drop off the first runner, drive ahead a few miles, cheer the runner on, and provide them with water, snacks, and plenty of love. That vehicle will then drive ahead to the first exchange point to drop off the second runner, and pick up the first runner when that leg is complete. They will repeat this pattern for six legs until they hand off to their second vehicle. This leapfrogging pattern will continue day and night all the way to the finish line.

Team registration is exploding. With 10 races on the calendar, participation in Ragnar Relays has no sign of slowing down in 2010. So what exactly is fueling this explosion?

"It is a combination of team, fun and personal challenge, I wish I could run every single one," says Tanner Bell, Co-Founder of the Ragnar Relay Series.  "Year after year our relays provide a truly unique experience to both new and repeat teams.  Running races are often viewed as an individual sport. Our relays give runners the opportunity to compete along side their friends, family and training partners."  

Ragnar Relay Series Co-Founder Dan Hill quotes, "Every year we make our relays even more fun for runners of all levels.  We are dedicated to choosing the most scenic routes and the best finish lines in the industry.  Race experience is always our top priority."

About Ragnar Events, LLC

Ragnar Events, LLC was co-founded in 2004 by Dan Hill and Tanner Bell.  The concept to run an overnight 24-hour relay was a lifelong dream of Dan Hill's father.  The dream became reality when Dan Hill and his childhood friend Tanner Bell organized the first Wasatch Back Relay, spanning 188 miles from Logan to Park City, UT in 2004.  Since 2004 the Ragnar Relay Series has grown from a single relay in Utah to the largest overnight relay series in the nation.  The Ragnar Relay Series now has 10 races scheduled for 2010 and is growing every year.  Ragnar Events, LLC is based in Salt Lake City, UT and managed by co-founders Dan Hill and Tanner Bell.

SOURCE Ragnar Events, LLC