The Relay Race

A relay race is a team running event. Each team has four runners. Each runner runs one part of the race. They pass a small stick called a baton to the next runner. The team that finishes first wins.

Passing the Baton

Passing the baton is the most important part. It must be done inside a marked area on the track. If the baton is dropped, the team can lose the race. Runners practice this handoff many times. A smooth pass can win or lose a race by a tiny bit of time.

Kinds of Relays

The most common relays are the 4x100 meter and the 4x400 meter. In the 4x100, each runner runs 100 meters as fast as they can. The 4x400 is longer, with each runner going 400 meters. There are also swimming relays and relays in other sports. Relays are always exciting to watch.

Fun Facts

• The baton must be about 12 inches long.
• The fastest 4x100 relay time is under 37 seconds.
• Relays have been in the Olympics since 1908.

Did You Know?

If a runner drops the baton during a relay race, only that runner is allowed to pick it up, not their teammates.