Reno Tahoe Odyssey Support 2025

Every year, over a thousand runners lace up their shoes and take on the challenge of the Reno-Tahoe Odyssey—a 178-mile relay race that winds through the mountains, desert, and streets of Northern Nevada. While runners prepare for the physical test, another team is preparing behind the scenes to ensure the course remains safe—especially near active railroad tracks.

Enter the Rail Auxiliary Team

As the race route crosses and parallels several sets of train tracks—including busy freight lines—the Rail Auxiliary Team steps in to provide an extra layer of safety. Our mission is simple but vital: protect runners and prevent railroad-related incidents.

“Most people don’t realize just how fast and quietly a train can approach,” said Lynn Sandell, a team volunteer. “Our presence helps make sure no one crosses unsafely, especially when they’re tired and focused on the race.”

What We Do:

• Monitor Crossings: Volunteers are stationed at the two key railroad crossings, Woodland Avenue in Reno, NV and .Stampede crossing in Truckee, CA.

• Alert Train Traffic: Having notified the railroad about the upcoming event croosing their tracks, the team communicates any unusual hazards or emergencies near the tracks in a timely manner.

• Educate Participants: During the event, volunteers keep runners and vehicles away from the tracks when a train is approaching and remind them to never walk on the tracks, use them as shortcuts, or ignore signals.

Why It Matters:

Train tracks may seem like just another part of the relay course, but the danger is very real. Freight trains can take over a mile to stop, and they don’t swerve. Even during a fun community event like the Odyssey, safety can never be taken for granted.

Thanks to the dedication of the Rail Auxiliary Team, the Reno-Tahoe Odyssey remains not only a test of endurance—but also an example of how community teamwork keeps everyone safe.

Thank you to this year's vokunteers that kept eveyone safe during the event by being vigilant and caring for the runners.

Don't go down the wrong track. Be Rail Aware and Be Safe.