User:Trackstar85/Thirteen Mile Relay

The Thirteen Mile Relay more widely known as the TMR or Torture Medley Relay was introduced to track and field during the late 1990's in the Louisiana University Invitational. It was highly unusual because long, strenuous races were expected to be outside where air was abundant. Athletes and coaches alike flocked to this obstacle because it was the only way to compensate for missing an entire season of cross country.

The goal of the race was simple, finish before the clock hits two hours; if the athlete could not do this, they would need to repeat the race to proven that they are in shape to compete in more exciting events. There are many different approaches to this: some athletes try to go out as fast as possible (55 sec 400) and hold the pace throughout 13 miles while others try to run at a more moderate pace (4min mile) and open up their stride with 5 miles to go.

There is no trick to the race, it's pure unadulterated pain. After death was becoming too frequent in competition, administrators decided to have hydration stations where the athlete would be doused in water as the past by. Considering that you would be disqualified for walking, crawling, crying, or screaming during the race, this addition was a godsend. The only thing which many runners have found helpful was to stay hydrated and eat well at least a month beforehand as it detoxifies the body.

It is important to keep focus during the race. This is hard since you have 105 laps to complete. Many runners tend to join groups in which they would hold hands throughout the race in order to keep each other going but the problem with that is that a chain is as strong as it's weakest link. This method is only helpful for first timers. You don't need to ask, just grab their hand and squeeze twice to imply desired partnership.