3,000 miles in 20 days doesn’t happen by accident. It takes a tight crew — on the road and behind the scenes. Explore the roles below, see how it all fits together, and find your place.
Apply to join the crew →We want to be super honest: this is going to be challenging.
We had an idea for a crazy adventure. Joe is a full-time grad student; Wyatt is in the middle of his second run through 50 marathons in 50 states. Most people spend hundreds of thousands of dollars and years planning something like this. We had about a month and our own savings.
More than a century ago, Ernest Shackleton put out a call to crew his expedition across Antarctica. As the story goes, it read:
“Men wanted for hazardous journey. Low wages, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness, constant danger, safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in case of success.”
If you want to be part of the traveling crew, this is a bit like that.
Here’s what we can promise
What we can’t promise is that it will be easy. You’ll be dealing with all sorts of things that are frustrating, painful, and exhausting — long days, hard nights, and plenty that goes sideways.
This is not for the faint of heart.
Tap any role to see its responsibilities, time commitment, and who it reports to.
The people who own the mission, the plan, and the final call.
The heart of the crew — doing anything and everything: running, runner support, handoffs, driving, problem-solving. The most all-in experience of the relay. Three teams run fixed shifts around the clock — Red (2 AM–10 AM), White (10 AM–6 PM), Blue (6 PM–2 AM), at least 3 people each. Not for the faint of heart; things will go wrong.
The team that captures the story as it happens, mile by mile.
Roles that keep leadership moving.
Support the road from home — eyes on the map, the weather, and what's coming next.
Turn what happens on the road into stories the country can follow.
Keep the people, money, and partners flowing.
Tell the press and plan the finish.
The professional backbone that keeps it all legal, funded, and running.
On a run like this, the question isn’t ifsomething goes sideways — it’s who you call when it does. Pick a scenario to see the chain.
Life-threatening injury or illness — anything where seconds matter.
Call 911 first
Always. Don't wait on the chain of command for a true emergency.
Nearest field team member
Renders aid, secures the scene, and shares exact location.
Crew Chief
Coordinates response, clears the route, directs other runners.
Deputy Director (Ops)
Adjusts the schedule and resources around the incident.
Co-Director (Joe)
Owns family contact, press, and any major decision.
Note: The on-call medical advisor is available by phone for guidance, but never delays a 911 call.
Whether you can give 20 days on the road or a few hours a week from home, there’s a role with your name on it.
Apply to join the crew