Most of you reading this are likely very familiar with what the Ragnar Relay Series is. If that’s the case, feel free to skip this post and use your time exploring some other fun reads today. Like Erin’s or Carly’s (yummy recipes!), Amy’s (she just kicked off Boston training!) or Emily’s (she’s back!)!
But if you’re not — read on.
The Ragnar Relay Series is…(according to their website) an overnight running relay race that makes testing your limits a team sport. A team is made up of 6-12 individuals; each individual runs 3 legs. The legs of the race vary in difficulty and distance, from 3-8 miles, allowing elite and novice runners to run together. Over 2 days and 1 night, teams run across 200 miles of the country’s most scenic terrain. Pair that with crazy costumes, inside jokes, a great finish line party and unforgettable stories. Some call it a slumber party without sleep, pillows or deodorant. We call it Ragnar.
So what is Ragnar to me? To me, Ragnar was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life — so far. One where I made new friends and bonded with existing friends. Because, let’s face it, you become quite intimate with the five other sweaty runners in your van.
Our team: Made in the 80s
Because of Ragnar I got to experience running in the middle of the night under a starlit sky in the middle of nowhere on the back roads of Wisconsin.
I didn’t take any “middle of the night” pictures, but you get the idea.
Because of Ragnar I attempted sleep on a gymnasium floor along with dozens of other strangers. And when that didn’t work I gave up and ran my three legs in over 24 hours on no sleep.
Because of Ragnar, when it was over I took the best shower of my life, scarfed down a burrito at my fave Mexican restaurant and slept for like, two days straight.
We also broke into this when it was over.
Because of Ragnar I gained the confidence to sign up for a half marathon, a triathlon and eventually, a marathon.
Because of Ragnar, this year I have the fabulous opportunity of representing Ragnar as an Ambassador!
Finally, because of Ragnar in 2009, I’m running it again in 2013 — better prepared — and I can’t wait!
January 23, 2013 at 1:26 pm
Which Rangar races have you run? I’m pondering which one to do this year? I’ve never done one but my boyfriend loves them!
January 30, 2013 at 10:00 am
I have only done the Great River one — would LOVE to do a different one too. Which one(s) are you considering?
January 23, 2013 at 1:56 pm
More and more people seem to really enjoy Ragnar. I just might have to give it a try one of these days!
January 30, 2013 at 10:01 am
You should! It’s a great, one-of-a-kind experience!
January 23, 2013 at 3:53 pm
Oh my god, I think the fact that the one thing burning a hole in my brain after reading this is “burrito” says something about how jealous I am that you live in a place with decent Mexican restaurants.
January 23, 2013 at 3:56 pm
They’re few and far between here but they exist. And thank god they do.
January 24, 2013 at 10:30 pm
Thanks much for the shout out, friend!
I completely agree… after both Ragnars I ran, I took the best shower and slept amazing for a couple days! Wish I could run it again this year!
January 25, 2013 at 8:43 am
Me too! But you have very exciting things in store for this year