Team Relays are the latest addition to events connected to a marathon. Runners wanting to see part of the course, run with fellow marathoners and be part of a team have been signing up in record numbers over the last few years.

Just 3 years ago, 21 teams signed up for Detroit’s Marathon Team Relays. This year over 200 teams are expected to take part. Where is the interest coming from?

Runners want to enjoy the excitement of the marathon but find they don't have time to train, prefer shorter races or they just aren’t ready. "Running on a team makes you a better runner. It gets your competitive juices flowing" according to Fred Vanhala captain of the Front Line Racing team and marketing guru for the Reebok Relays. "As part of a team you want to perform well for your teammates."

For some it’s a way to get into the mindset of a marathoner, to witness what they go through and be inspired by the accomplishment. "It's all the fun of a marathon with a fifth of the pain" per Vanhala. Relays give the casual runner an attainable goal to shoot for and encouragement from teammates.

Marathon relays also give you an opportunity to experience different parts of the course. One year you can pick the bridge leg, the tunnel or the finish line legs. Each exchange has its own uniqueness. Relay runners start with the marathoners, which create greater chances to have someone to run with. Legs vary in distance, enabling captains to strategize based on talents or how far a teammate is able to run.

Dennis Handley, Director of this year's Detroit Free Press Reebok Marathon Team Relays, is improving the organization. Separate finish line exchange points moving relay runners away from marathoners will be new. Bibs with RELAY will be worn on the back to identify the relay runner and cause less concern when a marathoner is being passed. Each exchange will have its own captain to smooth out baton handoffs. Long sleeve T-shirts are now included in the team package.

There are new categories, too — especially for women — and a law enforcement/military/public safety category. Prize money has been revised as well to encourage participation. There is also a course record bonus.

You can run as a 2-person or 5-person team. Team captains can register teams on-line now (www.freep.com/marathon) without registering individual team members. Individual team members have until Oct. 5 to register.

Tip of the Week: Use a logbook to help you see where you are and understand where you came from. It can be another place to help you stay consistent with your training.

Handy little book: The Runners' Repair Manual by Dr. Murray F Weisenfeld

Great Running Web Sites: RunMichigan.com has the latest pictures and results from Michigan races. MarathonGuide.com has articles and event ratings and reviews.