So, you’ve decided to tackle the Pioneer Crossing Relay. You’ve looked at the maps, envisioned the Big Sky vistas, and decided that running through the night in the heart of Montana is exactly what your soul needs.

Now comes the real endurance test: The Recruitment.

Finding 11 other people to pile into a van and run 175 miles sounds like a big ask, but it’s actually the most rewarding part of the journey. Whether you’re a seasoned ultra-runner or a first-timer, here is your honest, upbeat, and practical roadmap to filling those roster spots.

1. Sell the “Vibe,” Not Just the “Miles”

When you start asking around, don’t lead with the elevation gain. Lead with the experience.

• The Mobile Party: Describe it as a 24-hour rolling slumber party moving at 8 miles per hour.
• The Scenic Route: Remind them of the Pioneer Mountains—mountains, vistas, and stars they’ll never see from a treadmill.
• The “Why”: Mention Brent and Jona, our race directors. They met while running a relay in the Tetons and are lifelong friends because of it. This isn’t just a race; it’s where “friends for a lifetime” actually happens.

2. Low-Friction Recruiting: The “Social Tag”

Start where the resistance is lowest. Use the resources we’ve already built for you.

• Tag & Invite: Scroll through our Instagram or Facebook. When you see a post that captures the vibe, tag your friends in the comments: “@Sarah @Mike—we’re doing this. Who’s in?”
• The Group Chat: Start a text thread or a WhatsApp group early. High energy is contagious.

3. Cast a Wide Net (Beyond the “Runners”)

You don’t need 12 elite marathoners. You need 12 people with heart.

• The Gym Crowd: Look at your CrossFit box, your HIIT class, or your local sports clubs (softball, soccer, ultimate frisbee). These folks already have the “push each other” mindset.
• The “Active-ish” Friend: We all have that friend who wants to get back into shape but needs a goal. The Relay is the ultimate motivation.
• Generational Goals: Remember, runners as young as 16 can enter. Some of the best teams we’ve seen are multi-generational—parents, teens, and even grandparents sharing the miles.

4. The “Strategy Session” (aka The Barbecue)

Nothing closes a deal like a burger and a beverage.

• Host a Meet-up: Invite a group over for a casual dinner. Present the vision. You might find that you don’t just get 12 people—you might get 24, enough for two teams!
• The Support Crew: If someone says they “don’t run,” recruit them as a driver or a navigator. They get all the fun of the van without the sweat.

5. Be Real: The “Honest” Pitch

To build trust, be practical.

• The Difficulty: Tell them it’s challenging, but not impossible. If they can run a 10K or a half-marathon, they can do this.
• The Variety: Remind hesitant recruits that we have “Easy,” “Medium,” and “Hard” legs. You can tailor the assignments to each person’s fitness level.
• The Comfort (or lack thereof): Be honest about the van, the snacks, and the “nap when you can” lifestyle. It’s a whirlwind camping trip on wheels.

6. The “Urgency” Factor (Save Money!)

Practicality alert: The cost goes up the longer you wait. Use the “Early Bird” pricing as a motivator to get those commitments (and deposits) in early. This isn’t a big corporate cash grab—it’s two guys in Montana trying to cover the costs of a massive logistical feat. Signing up early helps everyone.

7. Make a Weekend of It

Montana is a playground. Suggest making it a “trip” rather than just a “race.”

• Pre and/or Post-Race Camping: The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway has world-class camping.
• Post-Race Recovery: Plan a trip to one of the local hot springs. If your crew is from out of state, make the most of their time here with a trip to Yellowstone National Park.

Start the Conversation: Sample Invites

Not sure what to say? Copy, paste, and tweak these templates to get the ball rolling.

Option A: The Quick Text/Group Chat

Hey everyone! I’m putting together a team for the Pioneer Crossing Relay in Montana. It’s 175 miles of incredible views, van life, and limited sleep (in the best way possible). We need 12 people total. It’s a challenge, but we’re going to have a blast. Who’s in to suffer beautifully with me? 🏔️🏃‍♂️

https://pioneercrossingsrelay.com

Option B: The Social Media Post (Instagram/Facebook)

I’ve officially decided that my life needs more Big Sky vistas and 2:00 AM running miles. I'm recruiting for the Pioneer Crossing Relay! 🌲✨

Think: 12 friends, one van, 175 miles, and memories for a lifetime. Whether you're a regular runner or just looking for a reason to get moving, I want you on my team. Registration is live now—comment below or DM me if you want to be one of my 11! #PioneerCrossingRelay #MontanaRunning #TeamCaptain

Option C: The Direct Email

Subject: 175 miles, 12 friends, and one epic Montana adventure?

Hi [Name],

I’m reaching out because I’m putting together a team for the Pioneer Crossing Relay, and I think you’d be a perfect fit.

If you haven't heard of it, it’s a 175-mile relay through the Pioneer Mountains. It’s less about being an elite athlete and more about the camaraderie of the "mobile party"—spending 24 hours in a van, cheering each other on through some of the most beautiful terrain in the country.

https://pioneercrossingsrelay.com

The race directors actually met while running a relay just like this and have been friends ever since. That’s the kind of vibe I’m looking for!

We’re trying to lock in the roster early to get the best registration price. Are you interested in taking on the challenge with me?

Best, [Your Name]

Your Captain’s Mantra:

“We are doing something together that we could never do alone.” This is about a collective identity. You aren’t just 12 individuals; you are a team conquering 175 miles of Montana wilderness.

Ready to start? Go send that first text, post, or email. We’ll see you at the start line!