Ragnar races are amazing to do. The SoCal one is absolutely beautiful … except for leg 1, van 2. It’s HOT HOT HOT and the legs are long long long. I have done 6 Ragnar races and 2 Odyssey races, and this is the first relay to hit 120 degrees heat index. You absolutely need van support in the first legs, as the directions say there are water stations but there are not. I did see runners taken away by ambulence on this exchange, so be careful and make sure your team knows where you are at all times.
Be very careful to note course changes, as I’ve had incorrect directions in two different Ragnar races. They do send text message warnings to the team captains, but many runners on course either do not have their phone or are in a no reception area.
Other than that – the race is insanely beautiful and the stops are very well organized by the volunteers. As long as your team is organized and aware at all times, the Ragnar races are an absolute blast!