If you ever get the opportunity to run a relay race, just do it! There is nothing like having a van of runners cheering you on as you complete your legs of the race! 2014's race began at the Columbia Historic Speedway in West Columbia, SC and ended at James Island County Park in Charleston, SC. (2015's race changed both the start and finish)

Pros
1. Truly Awesome Volunteers. I can't say enough about these folks. There are 36 legs total, and there are volunteers at each and every hand off. A lot of them have water and food for runners, which they have provided themselves.
2. Get to meet new running friends. In my van, I only knew one other runner prior to the race. By the end of it, I had five more running buddies. Not to mention six other new running friends in our other team van.
3. Running in the middle of the night! I know, it's scary if you haven't done it before, but you'll find that it's actually a lot of fun.
4. Support of other teams. It's awesome to have another team's van drive by you and shout out some encouraging words.
5. Lonestar BBQ. They are one of the race sponsors, as well as one of the exchange zones. All the relay teams go here to eat lunch or dinner, depending on which van you are in. It's buffet style, and there is something there for everyone to eat. I'm a pretty picky eater, and I have no trouble filling up my belly.
6. You get to see and run in parts of the state that you never knew existed.

Cons: NONE!

Tips:
1. Don't overpack. There will be 5 other runners in your van with gear and food. Keep in mind that you want everyone to have room to sit.
2. Shower wipes will save you and your vanmates from stinking up the van.
3. You can't pack too many baby wipes.
4. Make sure you have extra batteries for headlamps.
5. Don't forget your phone charger! You may want to coordinate with your vanmates on this one. Six chargers are probably unnecessary.
6. Get plenty of sleep leading up to the relay, because you are probably not going to get much during it.
7. Make sure each van has its own captain. The captain would be in charge of figuring out who is bringing what for your van.