F.A.Q.
When is the Red Eye Relay?
July 24-25, 2010
When does the race start?
Teams will choose their own start times. Teams can start at any half-hour interval between 4pm and 10:30pm Saturday, July 24th, 2010. CHOOSE YOUR START TIME CAREFULLY!!! When considering your start time, you should consider your pace based on at least a 10k pace.
When is the finish deadline?
All teams must finish by 9:30am on July 25th to receive an official time. Teams finishing between 7:45 and 8am will be part of the Breakfast Club and will be eligible for additional prizes and awards . Teams will be penalized 60 minutes for finishing before 6am or after 9:30am. Teams will be disqualified for finishing before 5am.
Why a nighttime run in July?
Out of the box thinking brought us to the conclusion that a 100 mile race wasn't nearly as challenging as one coupled with sleep deprivation and darkness. Unlike sweltering daytime temperatures in Indiana, July nighttime temperature are usually in the 60's, a nearly perfect running temperature.
Where does the race start and finish?
The Red Eye Relay starts and finishes on Indiana University's Robert C. Haugh Outdoor Track. For more information and directions on how to get to the facility visit http://iuhoosiers.cstv.com/facilities/ind-facilities-haugh.html.
What is the course like?
The course is a 50 mile loop course that will be completed two times. It will wind through the hills north of Bloomington and into the rural state forest in Monroe, Morgan and Brown counties.
How fast does our team need to run to meet the deadline?
Teams must be able to average 10:30 per mile to finish by the 9:30am deadline.
What is the distance of the event?
The approximate distance is 100 miles. Exact distance is subject to change, based on final route approval.
How many legs make up the race?
There are 21 course legs.
How does it work?
Teams complete the entire 100 miles relay-style, handing off a "baton" at designated exchange areas and following a roster rotation for their runners. Every team will have a different strategy based on the number of runners on the team. The most important rule to remember when planning your strategy is that all runners must run in consecutive order as designated on their roster. For example, if you have 7 runners on your team, all seven will run one leg each in their designated order. When the 7th runner finishes, the first runner will start again and the order will remain the same for all remaining legs.
Should we all ride in the same vehicle?
It is sometimes best to use two vehicles (probably vans) to haul your team. Keeping with the above example, while the first 4 runners are competing, the 2nd van of 3 is resting and preparing at a van exchange point up the course. This rotation will continue for the duration of the race. This will give each van some time to rest, eat, and get to the exchange point.
How hard is the Red Eye?
Although the distance will be challenging, sleep deprivation, darkness, and obscene hills will be some of the toughest battles to contend with. Not to mention your smelly teammates!
Who can run the race?
You must be 14 years of age or older. Participants under 18 may not be allowed to compete in the "Ultra" Category unless pre-approved by race director.
How can I be involved without running?
To organize a race of this magnitude, many volunteers are needed. If you, or your group would like to be involved, please contact race management for details.
I don't know enough runners to form a team. How can I find a team?
We would be happy to put you in contact with a team that needs runners. We will also keep a "running" list of individuals that are seeking others for teams. So just send us a note and we will try to help. Also, there is a discussion board on our facebook page where runners can find teams. This has been very useful in the past and we recommend using facebook for this purpose.
Is there a minimum number of runners for a team?
Yes. Two runners is the minimum required for a team. Are you up to it?
There are many fine ultrarunning races for solo competitors. Red Eye Relay is not organized for the kind of support that solo ultrarunning requires. Please visit UltraRunning Online to find a solo race in your area.
What kind of support will be provided along the course?
There may be some water and food at various exchange points but DO NOT count on this! Any arrangements that have been made will be detailed in your race manual. Be sure to pack along WATER, WATER, WATER and energy replenishing foods. Our communications system will enable us to have emergency services on call throughout the entire course. Portable restrooms will be at all exchange locations (unless some mishap occurs). All information for support will be detailed in the race manual.
What should we bring?
Your team should pay attention to individual needs of your teammates and be prepared for those. Some suggestions include:
- More water than you think you'll need
- Nutritious foods
- Functional first aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Towels
- Extra clothing
- Extra shoes/socks
- Dog repellent/pepper spray
- Sunscreen (for teams starting early)
- Reflective gear as required in Rules
