United Relay of America 2016

*Disclaimer: Through Fit Approach and the Sweat Pink community, I was given a race entry for this race. The thoughts and opinions written here are my own.

The United Relay of America is an ambitious coast to coast relay beginning in Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles on April 27th with all three routes culminating in New York City on June 4th. This epic non-stop relay connects runners with the We Are Here movement, a number of charities focused here in the US and around the world. Runners can select to run for a charity close to their heart. There are group runs (5k distances) in many cities or you can choose to run a stage (or part of a stage) as the relay comes to your area.

I’m excited about joining fellow MRTT Mama & blogger Running to Happiness in the relay here in Phoenix Area! Since it’s been all about the Boston Marathon this week, I decided to run for Boston Children’s Hospital. I do love to run at night, but I really haven’t had the opportunity. I’m going out of my comfort zone to be a part of history!

While the group runs will be on closed courses, the remaining stages will be open and will require the runners to make arrangements for aid stations and support. This is a 24hr relay, so safety is a top priority. Make sure to wear bright, reflective clothing and lights especially if you are running a stage at night. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your eyes and ears open while you’re on the go.

United Relay of America is sponsored by AfterShokz, creator of wireless open ear headphones which utilize bone conduction from your cheeks to deliver sound. They have developed these headphones with athletes’ safety in mind. If you’re running this race and need your tunes, these open ear headphones are a must have.