So I agreed today to my first competitive multistage race, the RAGNAR – NWP, aka the Ragnar Relays at the Northwest Passage.  It’s a 187-mile race wherein 12 runners on each team race relay-style for the finish line.  From the Ragnar Relay website:

You and 11 of your closest friends running day and night, relay-style, through some of the most scenic terrain North America could muster. Add in live bands, inside jokes and a mild case of sleep deprivation. The result? Some call it a slumber party without sleep, pillows or deodorant. We call it a Ragnar Relay.

Sounds kind of fun, right?  I got word from an acquaintance on dailymile that they were looking for a couple more people to fill out their team, and hey, I’m game for anything.  Plus I love the challenge of a clear, motivating goal.

So, July 23rd and 24th, I’ll be running, resting, cheering, encouraging, and probably occasionally gasping for breath   Looking at last year’s results, the winning over 30 pace was 7-something per mile, which is way faster than I can run ONE leg, let alone three legs.  Wish me luck during my training the next six months – I need it!

No, seriously, though, what’s a Ragnar?  Turns out he was a 9th-century Norse king.  Their about page has a special section for people like me who get a kick out of the name and want to learn more.

I’m very excited.