RELAY RACE
OVERVIEW & OBJECTIVE
The objective of a relay race is to make it across the designated distance in the fastest time, with handoffs to each subsequent participant.
TRACK
Runners start at the specified corners of the track to wait for the baton pass.
EQUIPMENT
OFFICIAL
Equipment
Track/field
Buzzer to signal start sound
Flag to signal start/finish lines
Batons
Buzzer to signal start sound
Flag to signal start/finish line
ALTERNATIVE
Equipment
Racing chairs/wheelchairs (if needed) or other mobility device
SPACE Adaptations
Flags or markers placed to assist with navigation.
Use clear markings, cones, ropes, symbols, and floor lanes to support orientation and focus.
Allow shorter distances.
Reduce crowding by staggering start times.
Increase space of movement for skills (to support mobility aids).
TASK Adaptations
Run, walk or wheel at a comfortable pace.
Shorter distances, or for longer distances, create opportunity for rest breaks.
Use alternative movements and allow mobility devices to support success.
EQUIPMENT Adaptations
Allow mobility/assistive devices to support movement. In running events allow use of devices for forward momentum.
Provide starting blocks or grips for better balance.
Bell or beeping targets for visual disabilities.
Flags for visual aids to support starts and communication.
Photo courtesy of Défi Sportif Altergo © Patrick Beauchemin
PEOPLE Adaptations
Pair students with buddies for guidance or motivation.
Use peer helpers to model movements and provide support.
Adapt the approaches for starters and officials to support participant success.
Provide positive encouragement to foster student success (cheering, ribbons, celebration, music).
Photo courtesy of Défi Sportif Altergo © Patrick Beauchemin
TEACHING CUES FOR MOVEMENT SKILLS
STARTING RUNNING
BATON GRIP
RECEIVING/PASSING BATON
RUNNING TECHNIQUE
STARTING RUNNING
Explode out of the blocks or start strong.
Keep eyes up and focus on staying in the lane.
BATON GRIP
Hold baton at the bottom.
Point baton forward to pass and push up into the “V” of the next runner.
RECEIVING/PASSING BATON
RECEIVE
Eyes forward, hand back.
Big target — thumb down, fingers together, making a “V” with thumb.
Start running before you get the baton (acceleration zone).
PASS
Say “stick” when ready to pass.
Pass smoothly, don’t throw.
Keep moving through the zone.
RUNNING TECHNIQUE
Run through the line, don’t slow down early.
Stay in your lane.
Drive your knees, pump your arms.
ACTIVITIES & SKILL DEVELOPMENT
STATIONARY BATON PASSING PRACTICE
WALK AND PASS DRILL
RELAY EXCHANGE ZONE PRACTICE
PASSING AND RECEIVING
STATIONARY BATON PASSING PRACTICE
Have students stand in a line (about arm’s length apart).
Practice passing the baton back and forth without running/wheeling.
Focus on communication cues like “go!” or “stick!” to signal when to reach back.
WALK AND PASS DRILL
Students walk/roll in a line and pass the baton to the next participant.
Emphasize smooth handoffs and correct hand positions (receiver’s hand behind, thumb down, “V” position).
Offer flexibility in how this is set up based on ability, and impairment (i.e. Amputee).
RELAY EXCHANGE ZONE PRACTICE
Mark a small “exchange zone” with cones or chalk (about 10 meters).
Students practice running/rolling into and out of the exchange zone, timing the handoff so they don't stop completely.
PASSING AND RECEIVING
Mark out 20 meter changeover and a 10 meter acceleration zone on a straight portion of the track.
Activity 1: Shoulder tag (no baton): The receiver begins running. When the person with the baton reaches the checkmark, the receiver attempts to outrun the incoming person with the baton, and avoid being tagged on the shoulder.
Activity 2: Hand tag (no baton): The person with the baton, and receiver, practice tagging hands. The receiver begins when the person with the baton reaches the check-mark, practicing thrusting out their hand for the pass and tag hands.
Add batons and practice the exchange.
ADDITIONAL LEARNING
REFERENCES
Run, Jump, Throw, Wheel Teachers Resource. Athletics Canada. 2006
Teachers Guide. BC Wheelchair Basketball & Let’s Play
Fundamental Movement Skills Cue Cards. School Physical Activity and Physical Literacy Project. 2025
Inclusion of Students of All Abilities in School-Based Physical Activity Experiences. PHE Canada. 2023. Retrieved May 15, 2025. School-Based Physical Activity Experiences for Students of All Abilities | PHE Canada.
