Spokane to Sandpoint Table of Contents

1. Overview Page
2. Race Partners
3. Non-Profit Beneficiaries
4. Important Dates
5. Getting Ready for the Race
6. Race Logistics
7. Centennial Trail System
8. Van Rotation
9. Race Equipment
10. Race Rules
11. Hot Showers
12. Train Crossings
13. Weather
14. Ultra Teams
15. Recommendations
16. Individual and Team Contests
17. Silverwood Theme Park
18. Course Markers
19. Leg Distances
20. Course Overview
21. GPS Coordinates
22. Directions to Race Start
23. Directions to Race Finish

�   Team Captain send in registration form or sign up online.

�    Recruit twelve runners to join the FUN!

�    If any member on your team is 100 miles from any portion of the race course you will need to submit 3  volunteers.  
 Volunteers will be assigned to help at Exchange zones in mid-July.

�   Complete individual team member registration forms as soon as possible via online or mail in.  Make sure they’re signed and please write clearly so we can have accurate information on file.

�   Find two support vehicles (vans/suburban) or locate a rental agency.

�    Make Hotel Reservations as necessary.

�    Start training properly!  Most runners put in 3 months of training for this Relay Event.

�    Meet several times before the Race to work out logistics and discuss such topics as:

�    Team training times (if applicable).  Accountability is a huge help.  Plus, it’s fun to run with others.

Spokane To Sandpoint Team Relay is very excited to have our runners enjoy the World Class rated Centennial Trail Systems during part of this Relay Race.  You are going to LOVE where you get to run.  Nestled against the Spokane River runners will get to experience 37 miles of the paved Spokane River Centennial Trail system on the Washington side and 28 miles of the North Idaho Centennial Trail system on the Idaho side.  Please respect the Trails by not littering, being respectful to other non-race users, and abiding by all trail rules.  Drivers, please use extreme caution when driving during LEGS 7 and 8 along Aubrey L. White Parkway in Riverside State Park.  THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT IS 25 MPH AND WILL BE STRONGLY ENFORCED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT.  For the safety of yourself, runners on the road, as well as other users of Riverside State Park it is mandatory that you obey posted speed limits in the State Park and elsewhere.  Thanks!

Please note that the entire Centennial Trail is closed to motorized vehicles so Van drivers will need to follow Driver Directions to proceed to Exchange Zones.  Also, runners please realize that you will have limited vehicle support on these sections so please plan appropriately.  You may wish to carry a water bottle, cell phone, or other needed running accessories. 
 

How it Works:

Each Team of 12 runners will be required to provide two van or suburban type vehicles to transport their runners.  Van 1 will carry runners #1-6 and Van 2 will carry runners #7-12.  At the Race Start at Bear Creek Lodge on Mt. Spokane runner # 1 from Van 1 will run their leg and then hand off the wrist wrap to runner # 2 at Exchange 1.  This will continue until all six runners from Van 1 have completed their sections.  At Major Exchange 6 runner # 6 will hand off the wrist wrap to runner # 7 from Van 2 and Van 2 will then begin their first set of six legs.           

Considerations:

Each Vanload must complete their six legs before handing off the wrist wrap and allowing the other Van to continue the relay race.  It is recommended that during your Van’s ‘OFF’ times you properly hydrate, get food, gas up your vehicle if needed, plan good humored pranks on the opposite van, and catch up on some needed rest during the night sections of the relay. 

PS.  The planning of pranks on the other Vanload, although recommended, is optional!
 

Mandatory Equipment

1. Two (2) Flashlights for Night Running w/ extra batteries
2. Two (2) Reflective Vests for Night Running
3. Adequate Water/Sports Drink
4. Race Handbook for each Vehicle
5. Course Map/Driving Directions (included in Race Handbook)
6. Two Vehicle Signs (provided by Race)

*Reflective vests will be sold at Start Area.

Recommended Equipment

1. Car GPS/Navigator Systems – these are extremely helpful for anticipating turns.
2. Cooler with lots of ice
3. Food
4. Sleeping Bag
5. Pillow
6. Sleeping Pad
7. Cell Phone
8. GPS
9. Extra Batteries
10. Extra Running Clothes
11. Warm Clothes for Night
12. Toilet Paper
13. Trash Bags
14.  Clipboard/Pens/Tape
15.  First Aid
16.  Medical Info on each Runner
17.  Frisbee
18.  Sunglasses
19.  Sunscreen
20.  Hat/Visor
21.  Towel
22.  Swimming Gear (Water access at several locations)
23.  Full Gas Tanks
24. Spending Money for Food along course and Race Merchandise at Start/Finish
25. Water Bottles
26. Kenyan Teammates

1.  LAWS OF THE LAND:

All teams are required to follow ALL Laws of the Land.  This means abiding by traffic safety laws (including speeding limits and parking restrictions), using portable toilets, and litter receptacles.   Please clean up after yourself and keep the race course and the Inland Northwest in great shape!  Also, please understand that our Event does not close roads to public traffic.  It's your responsibility to run safely, responsibility, and alert at all times.

 2.  THREE VOLUNTEERS:

It is mandatory that ALL teams who have at least one runner who lives locally within 100 miles of any section of the race course provide 3 VOLUNTEERS to help support the Race.  An event of this distance and magnitude needs your team’s volunteers to help make it run smoothly!  If you do not want to provide volunteers you can HIRE volunteers to take their place for $200/team.  Email the event staff at info@spokanetosandpoint.com if you wish to pay for your volunteers.  Volunteer shifts are typically 4-7 hours in duration. 

3.  VEHICLES:

Vehicles are limited to 20’ long.   Most teams drive vans, passenger vehicles, or suburban type vehicles.  Vehicles are not allowed to stop or impede traffic, nor are they allowed to follow slowly behind the team runner.  Only two vehicles are allowed to drive runners so as to limit race traffic and increase safety.  Vehicles can, and certainly are encouraged, to be decorated.  Team name, logos, runner names, and festive decorations are common.  Be creative and have fun!  Colored vehicle markers will be sold at the Start Area near the Race Merchandising. 

4.  TEAM VEHICLE SIGNS:

At Team Check-In (Start Area) teams will be provided 2 signs for each vehicle.  Put your "Team Number" and "Runner on Course" sign on the back window of your vehicle.  Please bring tape to secure your signs to your vehicle.

5.  DESIGNATED DRIVER:

Although most teams choose to alternate runners as drivers, your team is allowed to have a non-runner that you designate as a driver.  You can also carry support personnel if your vehicle has enough legal seatbelts.

6.  REQUIRED TEAM EQUIPMENT:

Each team must have 2 reflective vests and 2 flashlights/headlamps for night running sections of the course.  At Check-In and Packet Pick-Up please present your vests/flashlights for inspection by race officials.  All team members must wear reflective vests and carry flashlights from 30 minutes before dark until 30 minutes after light.  Your safety is our number one concern.  Please abide by these rules.  Participants will be held at the exchange and not allowed to begin their leg until they have the required night equipment.  Teams are encouraged to have at least 2 vests/lights per van so the runner up next doesn’t have to trade with the runner that just completed his/her leg in the transition area.  Reflective vests  will be sold at the Start Area.

7.  RUNNER SUPPORT:

During NIGHT sections of the race you are allowed to have pacers.  Pacers can either run alongside on foot or may ride a bicycle.  Pacers on foot need reflective vests and flashlights.  BICYCLE support are required to wear helmets, have reflective vests, and have a red flashing light.  If not using support crew please make sure to help keep runners on course by making regular stops at pull outs.  In addition to turn signs, all night running sections will have flashing lights at all turns along the course.

8.  RUNNERS OFF COURSE:

All runners should study their routes prior to racing.  All turns on the route will be marked with Spokane to Sandpoint race signs and reflective flashing lights during night sections.  That being said, it is up to each team to monitor and guide their teammates through the course.  If a runner gets off course by taking a wrong turn, the runner is allowed to be returned to the point where he/she took the wrong turn and then resume the race.  It is strongly recommended that night runners carry cell phones to communicate with team mates in the event they get off course.

9.  RUNNER SUBSTITUTION:

A)    Male/Female Teams:  If a runner drops out due to injury during a leg and isn’t able to make it to the next exchange, only the next runner in rotation can take the wrist wrap and finish that leg.  Teams then have the option of a) having that runner then run his/her leg on top of the leg they just finished or b) the next runner in rotation can begin at the exchange thus moving all other runners up one spot in the rotation.  The injured runner is not allowed to return to the rotation for the remainder of the race, so at least one runner will run an extra leg.

B)   Co-Ed Teams:  To qualify for a Co-Ed status females must run at least 18 legs.  Therefore, if a female runner becomes injured the next female in the rotation must slide into her position (a male runner is not allowed to).   An exception to this rule is if a Co-Ed team has 7 or more women, then the next male runner in rotation could take her place because the other women could still meet the required 18 legs.

10.  RUNNER SEQUENCE:

Barring no injuries occur during the race, all runners are required to remain in their original sequence throughout the race.  Therefore, runner 1 will complete legs #1, #13, and #25.  You are not allowed to give your best runner the three most difficult legs if they are not in his/her sequence of legs.  Organizing your sequence to best meet the strengths of your runners is important.  Hint: It is probably not the best idea to assign runners their legs based on their favorite numbers!  Give your newer runner’s easier sequences and your more experienced runner’s more challenging sequences.  Distance and elevation gain/loss are two important factors to consider.

11.  TRANSITION AREAS:

Runners must hand the wrist wrap off to the next team member in the designated transition areas.  Volunteers will record teams as they make exchanges so please make sure your race number is clearly visible.  Please do not park your vehicle in a position near transitions that would hinder the race path of other teams.  All transitions will have access to restrooms. 

12.  VAN DECORATIONS:

We want teams to show Race Spirit by decorating vehicles!  Please keep in mind that sportsmanship, positive slogans/images and arrangements that wouldn’t embarrass your grandmother are appreciated!  Van decorations that are overly suggestive, contain sexual or foul language, or vulgar in content will be asked to be removed. 

13.  CHECK-IN PROCEDURES & START AREA:

Teams should arrive at the START AREA at Bear Creek Lodge at least 30 minutes before their wave race time.  Each team must present (or purchase) their safety equipment including two reflective vests and two flashlights/headlamps.  After doing so teams will be issued their Race Goodie Bags which contain a variety of items including S2S Wrist Wraps and Spokane to Sandpoint Race Shirts!  Five minutes prior to the start of each wave, team names and numbers will be announced (cheer like middle school students on the last day of school when your team is broadcasted!).  At that point your runner should be at the Start Line ready to go!

14.  TEAM WRIST-WRAP:

Each team will be issued a Team Wrist Wrap at check-in at the Start area.  Runner 1 will wear the wrist-wrap to begin the team relay and then at Exchange #1 will had the wrist-wrap off to runner 2 in the designated Exchange Zone. This process will continue at each Exchange.

15.  FINISHER ITEMS & TEAM PHOTOS:

The final runner who completes leg 36 (runner #12) will enter Sandpoint's City Beach Park via Lakeview Boulevard.  Once the anchor runner has entered the grass area teams should join them for the final 50 meters of the race and pass through the Finish Arch as a group.  Make sure your anchor runner leads your team to the finish line as your final time will be based on when he/she crosses under the S2S Finish Banner.  All teams will be announced as they cross the Finish Line and we will definitely strive to make a big deal about your incredible team accomplishment!  Each team member will be awarded a unique S2S Finisher Medallion.

On behalf of the entire Event Staff of Spokane to Sandpoint, we’d like to wish you our most sincere congratulations on finishing the most Scenic and Adventurous Relay Race in the Northwest!

We understand that many runners would like a warm shower during the Relay so we have partnered with PEAK Health and Wellness Center in Coeur d’ Alene at the half way point of the race (Exchange 18) and Sandpoint West Athletic Club in Sandpoint at the Race Finish in Sandpoint, Idaho.  Showers will be $2.50 if you provide your own towel and $3.00 if you use the Club’s towels.  Enjoy a mid-race pamper as well as a post-race refresher and be sure to thank these fine organizations for partnering with Spokane To Sandpoint Team Relay.  Links for directions to PEAK Health and Wellness Center and to Sandpoint West Athletic Club are located below.  If you plan on taking advantage of these facilities we recommend that you do it during your vehicles “OFF” time (obviously). PEAK Health and Wellness Center  in Coeur d’ Alene will open their facility for Relay participants from 8:00 am until 11:00 pm and Sandpoint West will open their club for showers from 8:00 am until 8:00 pm.  Enjoy!

Directions to PEAK Health and Wellness Center  
Directions Sandpoint West Athletic Club

The average temperature for the race dates is mid 80’s during the heat of the day and cooler temperatures at night.  Be sure to check predicted forecasts and plan accordingly.  In the event of exceptionally hot weather please make sure to pace your legs that occur during the heat of the day (this means slow down!) and plan to have lots of replenishing fluids available for your runners.  Dehydration and overheating can be avoided by being properly prepared.  The Relay will be run rain or shine.  However, under drastic weather conditions we reserve the right to delay the start of the event or cancel for runner’s safety.  Conditions that may result in a cancellation include but are not limited to severe electrical storms, snowfall, or violent wind storms.   There will be no refunds given if the Event is cancelled due to weather or other logistical considerations. 

Runners need to be prepared for unseasonably high or low temperatures, precipitation, and night running conditions.  Bring appropriate gear to accommodate predicted conditions.
 

Ultra Teams are comprised of 6 members.  Divisions include: Open, Masters, Corporate, High School, and Public Service.  Teams may be all male, all female, or any combination of male and female.  All the rules for the Full Squads of 12 apply to the Ultra Teams.  Ultra runners will run a total of six legs each and average a total of 30 miles apiece during their sections of the race.

Race Choices:

Ultra Teams have their choice of how they want to race their legs.  There are two options that each team can decide upon:

A)    OPTION A:  Ultra runners run two consecutive legs in a row before handing off the wrist wrap to the next runner.  For example, runner # 1 would run legs 1&2, 13&14, and 25&26 during their six legs.

B)     OPTION B:  Ultra runners run one leg and then hand off the wrist wrap to the next runner.  For example runner # 1 would run legs 1,7,13,19,25, and 31.  This would also equal a total of six legs.

1. Learn the course before you run.
2. Plan legs based on ability.
3. Consider recruiting a pacer (on foot or bicycle) for night sections if that will help you feel more comfortable.
4. Have cell phones in each Van and make sure they’re charged.  Communication between Vehicles is paramount in this race as you trade turns racing.
5. Have a Car GPS/Navigation system in each vehicle.  These are exceptionally helpful!
6. Help your runners by periodically stopping at pull outs to see if they are ok.  Stop at difficult turns to make sure runners stay on course.  When doing so, you must not block, stop, or impede traffic so please choose safe locations to park your vehicle.   
7. Have a plan if one of your runners accidentally gets off route.  A couple of years ago one of our directors was doing another race and a turn sign was hidden behind a parked car.  He didn’t see it and ended up running 2 miles before his crew got him back on course.  Running with a cell phone may be helpful during night sections.
8. Bring sleeping gear and try and catch a few hours of rest at the Major Exchanges.
9. Cheer on and encourage the other teams – offer them water, help, and encouragement if they need it.
10. Bring extra running clothes, lots of fluids, and warm gear for night.
11. This race will ultimately be as FUN as your team makes it.  Show some team spirit, cheer on your teammates, and have an outrageous time.  We have provided the platform for a truly unique racing experience; it is up to YOU to make it happen!

Contest 1:  Wild Wig Contest:

This contest simply rocks!  Runners will toe the line at the race start located at Bear Creek Lodge and proceed down the mountain with their BEST WIG streaming in the wind.  This contest takes place during Leg 1 (with runner # 1).  It’s not quite time for trick or treating, but it is definitely time to see some rockin’ mullets, cruisin’ afros, jamin’ punkrockers, or runnin’ raninbow heads dashing down the mountain.  Prizes for everyone who participates and Grand Prize for best overall wig.  Remember, the man (or woman) makes the wig – you got to sell it baby!  Have wild fun during this 5.1 mile leg!

Contest 2:  Awesome Costume:

The AWESOME COSTUME contest takes place during Leg 2 (which is runner # 2 on your team.)  Leg 2 is a 3.1 mile run that starts at the Fire Station on HWY 206 near the base of Mt. Spokane and finishes at the Inland Parking Lot along HWY 206.  During this leg runners will have a chance to parade their favorite costume.  Who knows who will show up on the course? Perhaps we’ll encounter Spiderman, Wonderwoman, or Elvis?  Have fun, wave as other race vehicles honk at you as they pass, and please be appropriate with your costume choice since we are running on public roads!   Anyone that participates in this fun contest wins Spokane to Sandpoint event staff’s respect and admiration… and of course a prize as well.  Grand Prize is given to the best overall costume.  Feel free to have your contest already on at the Race Start as you cheer on runner # 1 and prepare for your upcoming leg!

Contest 3:  Brightest Running Outfit:

This contest takes place during Leg 6 (which is runner # 6 on your team).  The rules of the contest are simple – put on a BRIGHT RUNNING OUTFIT and run with the sun on your back and the wind in your hair!  Dig out your old hot pink tank top or your lime green early 1990’s running shorts.  Whatever it is, just make sure it is bright in color.  Be creative and have fun during this 6.0 mile leg.  Participation earns you an automatic prize which will be given to you at the completion of your leg!  All outfits will be judged and best overall outfit wins the Grand Prize as well as bragging rights for this year’s “Brightest Outfit” which will be posted on our website with all other contest winners.

Contest 4:  Men and Woman’s Time Trial:

The Men & Women’s Time Trial takes place during Leg 7 (which is runner # 7).  This is a chance to let the speedsters from each team see how fast they are during the short 3.4 mile leg that begins at the trailhead of the Spokane River Centennial Trail and finishes at the Seven Mile Bridge. The terrain is rolling hills and is closed to motorized vehicles.  We are proud to boast that the Centennial Trail has been given the rare and esteemed status of being a Millennium Trail.  The fastest overall male and female runners will win accommodations at the prestigious Coeur D’ Alene resort nestled along Lake Coeur D’ Alene  (no…you don’t have to share the room – HA!).  Co-ed teams will have to decide if they will run a male or female during this leg.  Good luck runners!

Contest 5:  Tattoo Contest:

Inspired by one of our inaugural teams entitled Wokeuptattooed, this contest takes place during Leg 12 (which is runner #12).  Prior to this contest, runner 12 should hit the nearest Dollar Store and select some entertaining and amusing removable TATTOOS.  Judges will look for originality, creativity, and overall flare during this light-hearted contest.  I’ll never forget when one of my skinniest, whitest, and most likely to win the “never to get a tattoo” award showed up for one of our cross-country meets with a handful of tattoos strategically placed.  The barbwire around his bicep literally almost made 2 loops!  Our entire team shared a good laugh at his comic relief.  His example highlights the intent behind this fun-natured contest.   Please choose appropriate removable tattoos for this 4.2 mile leg and please position them in appropriate locations as our race course is open to the public.   Tattoos that are overly suggestive, contain sexual or foul language, or vulgar in content will be asked to be removed or covered.   Have fun!

Contest 6:  Best Light Show:

The Best Light Show was an idea one of our race directors came up with after training and racing through the night.  The contest takes place during leg 20 (which is runner # 8) and should be a night run if you have estimated your team’s average pace fairly close to what you actually race.  Competitors who compete in this contest literally become a running light show during the 2.4 mile leg.  Use lights any which way you can to make yourself look like a “glowing runner” that will light up the night streets.  Be as creative as you want, but your light arrangement can’t interfere with the vision of oncoming traffic.  No fireworks or pyrotechnics of any type are permitted during this leg for safety reasons. Prizes will be given to all who participate as well as Grand Prize for best overall Light Show.  Whether your team enters this contest or not, you still have to abide by Spokane to Sandpoint night running rules (flashlight/headlamp and reflective vest). 

Van-A-Rama Contest:

The team that shows the highest degree of race spirit by decorating their vehicle in a most exceptional manner wins the hallowed Van-A-Rama contest.  In addition to the recognition, the winning team will also be awarded $150 OFF next year’s Spokane to Sandpoint Race.  Thanks for showing some Race Spirit with your vehicle!

Team Spirit Award:

Similar to the Van-A-Rama Award, the Team Spirit Award is a team contest given to the team that exhibits the best Team Spirit during the race.  Things that you can do to improve your teams chance of winning this category include team outfits (make ‘em fun!), team cheers, and positive sportsmanship during the race.  We request that participating teams report acts of sportsmanship from other teams that go above and beyond the call of duty to race officials.  The prize for this contest is $300 OFF next year’s Spokane To Sandpoint Relay!  We take pride in teams that win this Award and want them to be regular participants year after year.  Thanks for showing positive Team Spirit!

Do we really ride a massive wooden Roller Coaster during this race?  YES!  When the Spokane To Sandpoint Team Relay was being designed we wanted to do something that no other Event had considered.  Therefore we presented the idea of a 185 mile outrageous and outlandish running relay to Silverwood and asked if they’d come onboard.  They enthusiastically said yes and we are grateful to partner with the BEST Theme Park in the Northwest.  

At Major Exchange 24 in Silverwood Theme Park there will be ample space to lay out your sleeping pad and bag under the Pavillion while the ‘OFF’ runners await vanload 2.  Most teams will be arriving at Silverwood around midnight so this will be a night coaster extravaganza!   Each team is only allowed to ride the coaster once and must obey the rules of the Park.  Please respect teams that are trying to recoup a few hours of sleep by keeping your noise at a respectful level …..that is, until you ride the coaster! 

To clarify a few points, not everyone has to ride the coaster.  Our hope is that your team will at least have representation on the ride.  That being said it is up to your squad to decide how many runners will take the plunge!   If your team opts to not ride the rollercoaster you will be assessed a 15 minute wait period wherein runner # 1 can’t begin Leg 25 until the fifteen minute wait time is up.  This is to ensure that teams riding the rollercoaster are not at an unfair advantage for team time.   We recommend that as runner number 12 finishes up the 5.5 mile Leg 24 and makes his/her way to the Theme Park that Van 2 call the other part of your team (Van 1 who will be waiting at Silverwood, probably sleeping!) via cell phone and let them know you’re almost there.  That will allow all the runners in Van 1 to get be prepared for the arrival of Van 2 as all riding members need to load and ride the rollercoaster at the same time.  Following the coaster ride runner number 1 will exit the Theme Park and begin Leg 25 for Van 1.

Spokane to Sandpoint Team Relay is comprised of 36 total legs.  Each team is responsible to provide two support vehicles with enough room for six runners each.  Van 1 will complete a set of 6 legs and then handoff the wrist-wrap to Van 2 which will then complete a set of 6 legs.  Each Van completes 3 sets of 6 legs for a total of 18 (or half) of the 36 legs.  Spokane to Sandpoint has given each set of 6 legs some interesting and telling names:

Down the Mountain: Legs 1-6

Racers start atop picturesque Mt. Spokane at Bear Creek Lodge.  The Race Start is staggered so that the slower teams (min/mile) begin earlier and the faster teams start later.  The first couple of legs are sure to be fast as teams make their way off the mountain heading south and then west.  After the midway point at Colbert Elementary teams then progress on back roads with tall pine trees and the Little Spokane River keeping them company.  Exchange 4 at Pine River Park is a great place to spend some time cooling off as there is waterfront beach access, public facilities, and lots of shade.  The final two legs wind their way toward Sontag Park where Van 2 awaits.  “Down the Mountain” consists of  33.2 total miles.  Three exciting and fun contests take place during this set of legs:  Wild Wig (leg #1), Awesome Costume (leg # 2), and the Brightest Running Outfit (leg # 6). 

Through The Forest: Legs 7-12

Racers begin at Sontag Park in Nine Mile Falls at the trailhead of the Spokane River Centennial Trail.  This trail system has been deemed a National Millennium Trail.  You’ll discover why as you race through beautiful scenery nestled along the Spokane River.  Places like Deep Creek, the Bowl and Pitcher, and Riverside State Park make this a runner’s paradise.  The Centennial Trail is closed to motorized vehicles so make sure your vehicle driver follows the driver directions in the Race Handbook.  If weather conditions are hot, racers might consider bringing water with them.  At Exchange 8 racers get to race across the Bowl and Pitcher scenic bridge with the Spokane River rushing just below.  To say the setting is spectacular is an understatement.  The final three runners dash their way through the heart of Spokane while passing through Riverfront Park, home of the ’74 World Expo, enchanting Upriver Drive, and cross over Denny Ashlock Memorial Bridge before handing off the team wristband to Van 1 at Maribeau Park where race services await. "Through the Forest" consists of 25.4 miles. Contests along this set of legs include the Men & Woman’s Time Trial (leg # 7) and the Tattoo Contest (leg # 12). 

To the Beach: Legs 13-18

After catching a rest with plenty of space to lay out at Maribeau Park runners in Van 1 will begin their second set of 6 legs as they make their way to the City Beach in Coeur d’Alene.  “To the Beach” consists of 27.5 miles.  The first ten miles are along the Spokane Centennial Trail and then the last seventeen are along the North Idaho Centennial Trail system.  Reminder, the Centennial Trail is designated for runners, walkers, rollerbladers, and bikers only.  No motorized vehicles are allowed so please refer to the Race Handbook for driving directions.  There are numerous places where vehicles can drive ahead of their runner and then get out and cheer them as they pass by.  After crossing into Idaho runners will make their way through Post Falls and then into Coeur d’ Alene, voted one of the Best Places to Recreate and Live.  Coeur d’ Alene is not shy on scenery, places to catch a bite to eat, or excitement.  The final runner of this vanload will finish by running along River Avenue, part of the Coeur d’ Alene Ironman Triathlon and Coeur d’ Alene Marathon courses, and finish at Coeur d’ Alene’s captivating City Beach Park, the midpoint of Spokane to Sandpoint Team Relay.  Enjoy the beach! 

Preparing for the Plunge: Legs 19-24

“Preparing for the Plunge” consists of 30.5 miles.  After cooling off at one of the most prestigious lakefront areas in Northern Idaho, that being Coeur d’ Alene City Beach, runners will then make their way to Silverwood Theme Park.   Silverwood is the Northwest’s most popular Theme Park with nearly one million people making the trek to visit the always-expanding attractions.  Along this set of legs, the first couple of runners will finish the last few miles of the Centennial Trail system as well as enjoy the newly created Prairie Trail system (which used to be an old railroad track before the recent paved renovation – you’re going to love it!).  The remaining runners along this section will make their way north to Silverwood where TREMORS awaits.  Runners must wear reflective vests and carry a light source (headlamp/flashlight) 30 minutes prior to sundown.  Your safety is our number one concern!  Once arriving at Silverwood your team will have an opportunity to ride Tremors Roller Coaster, a ride that plunges you toward the Earth at over 65 miles per hour and through several underground tunnels!  This concept, riding a roller coaster around midnight, is what makes Spokane to Sandpoint unlike any other running event out there.  The roller coaster is voluntary, however it is expected that your team would at least have representation on the coaster.  This means you could just have one person ride, or all twelve daredevils can ride together.  Runner # 1 cannot exit the theme park to begin Leg 25 until your representatives are off the coaster.  If your team opts not to have anyone ride the coaster you will be held at the Exchange zone for 15 minutes before being allowed to exit to ensure that teams are not at a time disadvantage for riding the coaster.  The Best Light Show contest occurs during leg 20 (runner # 8) of this section.  Have fun!

Dashing in the Dark:  Legs 25-30

Runners will exit Silverwood Theme Park in the cover of night.  Race rules for night running apply to this set of legs until 30 minutes after sunrise.  Teams on this stretch will have the pleasure of passing through several small northern Idaho towns including Athol, Spirit Lake, Blanchard, and Old Town before arriving at Major Exchange 30 where van 2 awaits.  Take time to enjoy the monster pine trees that surround you as you make your way through the Kaniksu National Forest, a gorgeous place to run.  Runners in Van 1 can celebrate as they finish their final 32.0 miles during “Dashing in the Dark.”  After passing off to Van 2 take some time to rest and recoup and then make your way to City Beach Park in Sandpoint for the Finish Line party!

Flight to the Finish: Legs 31-36

Okay, perhaps after already running 149 miles as a team this leg should more aptly be called “Hurting for Home,” but let’s keep things positive right?  Our staff firmly believes that the 35.1 mile “Flight to the Finish” is one of the most scenic and dramatic finishes in all of racing.  Teams will progress from Old Town, Idaho westward traveling on back-country roads that trace the majestic Pend Oreille River (one of Idaho’s best watersheds).  The final runner who completes leg 36 of Spokane to Sandpoint will carry the team’s hopes (as well as the well worn wristband!) across one of the longest bridges with a fully sanctioned sports section in all of the Northwest.  The 2.2 mile Sandpoint Long Bridge across Pend Oreille Lake is sure to take your breath away and provide the added energy you’ll need to reach the finish line shortly after exiting the bridge at Sandpoint’s City Beach Park.  Feel free to wade into the serene waters at the beach as you definitely deserve it!  All 12 teammates should be ready to join their anchor runner for the final victorious 50 meters to the Finish Line.  Congratulations, you’ve completed 185 miles of runner’s paradise, enhanced some great friendships along the way, and are now ready for some sleep and an extra large post-race meal.  Way to GO!

- Travel on I-90 to Spokan                       
-  Take exit 287 for Argonne Rd. (0.4 mi)
-  Turn LEFT at N. Mullan Rd (0.2 mi)
-  Slight right on N. Argonne Rd. (6 mi)
-  Coninue on N. Bruce Rd. (2.3 mi)   
-  At the traffic circle, take the 1^st exit  
   onto E. Mt. Spokane Park Dr./WA-206             

Finish:  Sandpoint’s City Beach Park

From: Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho to Race Finish

o   North on US I-90 to Sandpoint, ID (43 miles)

o   Cross Long Bridge

o   RIGHT on 1st Ave. (0.2 miles)

o   RIGHT on Bridge St. (0.3 miles)

o   FINISH at City Beach Park on your right.