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Three-Legged Race
The simplest team race at any campsite.
Ages 6-85-10 peopleHigh energy5-10 minMinimal setupCompetitive
What you need
- One bandana or short rope per pair
- A flat, clear track 30-50 feet long
How to play
- 1.Pair players up. Stand side by side - the inside legs get tied together at the ankle with the bandana.
- 2.Walk one practice lap before racing. Find a rhythm: "left, right, left" works for most pairs.
- 3.Line all pairs up at the start. On "go," race to a clear finish line and back.
- 4.The first pair to return and cross the start wins.
- 5.Run a losers bracket so everyone races twice.
What success looks like
First pair to complete the out-and-back course wins.
Variations
- Relay: two pairs on a team; the first pair tags the second before they can start.
- Gauntlet: instead of a sprint, set up 3 small obstacles (logs, cones) on the course.
- Tournament bracket: run single-elimination until one pair wins it all.
Safety notes
- Walk the course beforehand and remove any tent stakes, rocks, or trip hazards.
- Tie the bandana snugly but not tight - a quick-release knot is fine.
- If a pair falls, stop the heat and let them recover before continuing.
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