At RunVermont, we know that running can be a deeply personal journey, but it's even better when shared. If you're searching for exciting Vermont running races, the relays at the M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay, presented by Darn Tough Vermont, are the perfect opportunity to experience the excitement, camaraderie, and joy of race day by conquering the 26.2 miles as a team. For many, the reality becomes more than a race — it's a celebration of teamwork and friendship.
Just ask The Arctic Foxes—a group of five friends from Huntington, Vermont, including team members Amy Redman and Jess Courtemanche—who formed a relay team after bonding over a frigid February river plunge.
“The idea of forming a running relay team came to life while we were literally sitting in an icy river daydreaming about running again,” explained team member Amy Redman.
What began as a fun idea turned into an unforgettable day, and a surprise victory, as they went on to win the Female Masters Division of the 3-5 Person Relay at the 2025 M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay.
Running Together: Why Choose a Vermont Running Relay?
For Amy and Jess, this experience was more about connection and less about competition. As parents and community leaders, they balanced training between work and family, often fitting miles into pockets of time in their day. The relay gave them a way to return to running on their own terms. “There’s something so beautiful about passing the baton, giving it your all, and knowing you have friends backing you who will carry it forward,” said Jess.
Amy and Jess are also leaders for their children's Mini Milers group at Brewster Pierce Elementary School in Huntington. As leaders, Amy and Jess get kids outside, running, and building confidence. Jess begins every Mini Milers session with the mantra “we can do hard things,” teaching the kids resilience one stride at a time. Both women see Mini Milers as not only a running club for their children and the children they coach, but also a way to nurture perseverance, joy in movement, and pride that ripples through families.
Music in Motion
That spirit of teamwork and community extends beyond the runners themselves. The M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay is part of a broad community of runners, families, and supporters who bring Burlington to life on race day.
Along the marathon course, Keri and Steve Piatek’s rock band, Sciatica, has become one of the most beloved race day traditions. What started as a couple of neighbors banging on trash cans has grown into a full fledged band that's been cheering on runners for 17 years.
“Even if there is just one runner left, we grab the drums, crank up the music, and cheer them on like they're in first place,” said Keri.
The band cheers on marathoners and relay participants in the Lakewood Estates neighborhood (approximately miles 9 and 22). Lakewood Estates has won the M&T Bank Community Spirit Award multiple times and Sciatica was awarded the M&T Bank Achievement Award in 2024 for its community impact. Band members also dedicate their performances to their late friend Jarleth (an original bandmember), whose daughter carries on his legacy by ringing the cowbell in costume each year.
Join the Relay
The relay welcomes teams of all kinds: coworkers, friends, families, and first-timers alike. With manageable leg distances starting at 2.8 miles and cheering support from the community, it's the perfect entry point for those interested in participating in the M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay who may not be ready to run the full marathon (or want to do so in a team capacity!).
Amy from The Arctic Foxes team put it best: “the relay embodies community, the energy, the support, and the joy of doing something bigger than yourself.”
So, gather your team, pass the baton, and discover what makes the M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay one of the most uplifting and unforgettable race day experiences in Vermont. You might just find yourself running towards lifelong friendships, new goals, and a few joyful surprises along the way.