At the Baker to Vegas race, proper use of radios is essential for both communication and safety. All team members should be thoroughly familiar with the radios before the race. Radios should be checked and fully charged before the event starts. When using the radio, always identify yourself and address the person or team you are communicating with. Speak slowly and clearly, keeping your messages concise and to the point. If you encounter interference or static, move to a different location and try again. Remember to keep all radio traffic professional; refrain from unnecessary chatter so important information can get through quickly. In an emergency, use the established emergency code or phrase to alert others, and provide clear details regarding your location and the nature of the issue. After communicating, ensure the other party confirms receipt of your message before moving on. Handle radios with care to avoid damage, and store them in a secure place when not in use. Proper radio usage will help ensure a successful and safe Baker to Vegas race event.
At the world-renowned Baker to Vegas race, also known as the Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup Relay, effective use of radios is absolutely vital for seamless communication, coordination, and, above all, team and event safety. Radios serve as the primary means for exchanging critical information between team members, support vehicles, base camps, and race officials spread out across over 120 miles of challenging desert highway. Thus, it is imperative that all participating team members—including runners, vehicle drivers, volunteers, and command staff—are thoroughly trained in the correct operation and etiquette surrounding radio communication well in advance of race day.
Before the race even begins, conduct a comprehensive check of all radios designated for use during the event. This includes making sure that every radio is fully charged, has fresh backup batteries available, and is programmed to the agreed-upon primary and secondary channels. Teams should assign a radio communication specialist or a communications coordinator to oversee the distribution and function of equipment. A pre-race drill that covers proper radio use and troubleshooting common issues is highly recommended—especially for those who are less familiar with two-way radios.
While using the radio, there is standard protocol to follow for efficiency and clarity. Always start each transmission by identifying yourself—using either your name, call sign, or team assignment—and clearly state whom you are trying to reach. For example, say, “Team 23 Support Van to Team 23 Base, do you copy?” This helps avoid confusion amid the busy airwaves during the event. It is crucial to speak slowly, distinctly, and directly into the radio’s microphone. Messages should be brief, concise, and strictly pertinent to the race or safety; extraneous chatter clogs essential communication lines and may cause critical announcements to be missed.
If you experience static, interference, or trouble being heard, first attempt relocating to higher ground or away from large vehicles and electronic equipment, all of which may obstruct the signal. If problems persist, switch to your alternate frequency as previously planned, and always keep your team leader or communications coordinator updated on any ongoing radio issues.
Professionalism on the airwaves is a must. Never use radios for non-essential conversation, jokes, or personal matters while the race is in progress. Every transmission could potentially be about an injured runner, a vehicle emergency, or vital race logistics, so preserving channel availability is non-negotiable. In the event of an emergency, immediately use the established code word or phrase selected by your team (such as “Code Red” or “Medical Emergency”) and provide as much detail as possible, including your precise location—mile marker, support area, or closest landmark—and the exact nature of the emergency. Speak in calm, measured tones to ensure your message is received and understood without error.
Once you have delivered your message, it is important to wait for the receiving party to acknowledge and confirm they have understood. This eliminates the risk of information being lost, misheard, or ignored in the rush of race activity. If you do not hear a reply, repeat your transmission and, if necessary, seek assistance from base command.
Finally, always treat radios as sensitive, essential devices. Keep them dry and protected from dust and accidental drops, and use carrying cases or lanyards when moving between areas. When radio use is no longer needed, power down and store them properly.
By following these protocols and practicing good radio etiquette and care, your Baker to Vegas race experience will not only be safer but far more organized, allowing your team to focus on racing strong and enjoying this legendary law enforcement relay.
