A relay race splits a course distance, such as a marathon, among a team of runners, with each member covering one leg before handing off to the next. It lets a group cover a long distance together without any single runner running the whole route.
The full course is divided into legs, often four to six of them, and each team member runs one segment. Bibs or timing chips are handed off at marked transition points along the route.
Most relay teams have four to six runners, though the exact number depends on the event. Some races also offer two-person relay options.
Yes, each runner's leg time is recorded along with the team's combined chip time. Results are usually published both per-leg and as a total.
At designated transition points along the course, which are clearly marked and staffed by volunteers. Teams usually need to arrive at the correct point before their runner's turn.
Yes, it's a great way to experience race day and a long-distance course without training to run the full distance solo. Many first-time runners join a marathon relay before attempting the full distance themselves.