What it takes to train for Hood to Coast, Oregon’s ‘mother of all relays’

At 196 miles over two days, from the top of Mount Hood to the sand at the Oregon Coast, there’s a reason they call it the “mother of all relays.” On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we look at what it takes to tackle the Hood to Coast Relay, Oregon’s biggest annual footrace, which is returning this weekend. Cristian Vargas, founder of Juntos PDX and Caminando Running Club, joined the podcast to talk about training his team for the big relay race. Co-host Chiara Profenna, who will be running the relay this weekend, has been training with Vargas all spring in preparation. Their methods and mentality going into the relay show just how tough this event can be. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Everything you need to know about Hood to Coast. How running the race inspired Vargas to start his own team. A training regimen includes waking up before sunrise to run. Why the Caminando Running Club is already looking ahead to 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices