Comstock Odyssey Prep

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Comstock Odyssey: Relay Basics (RTO Legs 30 - 36)

The course consists of Legs 30 – 36 of the Reno-Tahoe Odyssey route (6 total legs). At the end of each leg is a designated runner exchange area, where one runner finishes and the next runner begins.
Runners carry a team wristband, which is passed from runner to runner at each exchange point. The wristband serves as your team’s baton.
Teams run sequentially through their line-up to complete all 6 legs. The number of legs per runner depends on team size (2–6 runners). Your team determines the running order and maintains that order throughout the event.
Teams operate with one vehicle that supports all runners and transports them between exchange points.
At the end of each leg is a runner exchange point where your next runner begins. There are no van “leapfrog” rotations in Comstock Odyssey — your single team vehicle supports the full 6-leg segment from start to the Finish Line Festival in Reno.
A key part of relay strategy is estimating runner pace. Your vehicle must arrive at each exchange point before your incoming runner finishes. The RTO Team Pace & Exchange Point Worksheet (2026 version coming soon) can assist with planning.
Each team must supply its own runner support. There are no guaranteed aid stations, so plan accordingly. Leave adequate room in your vehicle for food, hydration, safety gear, and personal supplies. The Checklist tab is a helpful planning tool.

Designate a detail-oriented, proactive Team Captain.
Arrive mentally and physically prepared. Train for the legs you are assigned.
Coordinate leg assignments with your Team Captain in advance (no need to submit assignments to race management).
Implement a positive, solution-focused mindset — a “No Whining” rule goes a long way.
Stay properly hydrated. Carry your own fluids during your leg.
Carry a printed map of your leg. Cell service may be unreliable in certain areas.
Stretch after each of your legs.
Choose leg assignments wisely. “Most Difficult” and “More Challenging” legs should be handled by experienced runners.
On steep climbs, consider “power striding” (strong hiking form with arm drive). This ultra-running strategy conserves energy more effectively than trying to run every incline.
Arrive early at exchange points to park safely and prepare your next runner.
Pack extra gear (dry socks, shirts, weather layers).
Build camaraderie with other teams — cheer, encourage, connect.
Stay alert and prioritize safety at all times.
Take in the experience — the scenery, the night sky, the energy of the course.
Finish strong as a team. Both vans will have time to park near the finish area. Gather in a safe location to escort your last leg runner through the final stretch together.
Celebrate with a team photo once you cross the finish line!

Minimum of one reflective vest, one working headlamp and flashing lights for runner’s back per vehicle; best if each runner has their own safety gear
Extra batteries for the safety gear
One “RUNNER ON ROAD” safety sign per vehicle provided by the RTO; tape to put the sign on the back of the van
RTO Runners Handbook for each van (please read ahead of time; it also contains leg maps)

RTO Runners Handbook for each van (please read ahead of time; it also contains leg maps). YES, THIS IS LISTED TWICE.
List of cell phone numbers of each team member, one per vehicle plus emergency contact information
Watch or some way to keep track of team’s time on RTO time log (Runners Handbook)
Clipboard for RTO time log
Pens to track times on RTO time log
Basic first aid kit
Garbage bags (for your van trash)
Cooler/ice
Small towels/washcloths and sponges to wet down to cool off hot
Runners (pre-frozen washcloths are awesome!)
Toilet paper
Kleenex
Baby wipes
Glow sticks
Squirt guns
Cow bells

Food supplies such as water, sports drinks, chocolate milk, fruit, bagels, peanut butter, jerky, string cheese and energy bars
Refillable water bottle

Running kit for each of your running legs (recommend putting each leg in a large ziplock bag)
- Running shoes (maybe 2 pairs depending on weather)
- Shorts, capris, tights
- Tanks, short-sleeves, long-sleeves
- Sports bras
- Socks
- Running hat/visor
- Bandana
Comfy, dry clothes for downtime (socks, slides/flipflops, hoodie, fleece jacket)
Running watch/GPS
Sunglasses