As runners, we all have a handful of races on our ultimate running bucket lists. Races that will prevent our running lives from being complete until we experience their energy and cross their finish lines. Races that are just as much about the journey as they are about the destination.

For me, one of those races is the legendary Hood to Coast Relay, which is the world’s largest relay race that began the same year I was born. This 2-day event challenges teams of 8 to 12 runners to cover 199 miles across the state of Oregon. More than 12,600 people will embark on this momentous journey this year, and I’m hoping beyond hope that I will be one of them this August.

Nuun is giving 20 lucky people the chance of a lifetime to experience this race in a very special way. I cannot imagine a better team to experience this journey with or a better brand to keep me hydrated run after run after run.

Because this is an opportunity of a lifetime, it deserves a video application of a lifetime.

So, I set out to create an over-the-top awesome idea that would be special and memorable. Something that would show Nuun just how much I’d like to be part of their team.

First, I thought about wearing a crazy costume made out of all the Nuun flavors. Maybe dressing up as my favorite fruits.

Then I pondered doing a western skit about meeting you in Oregon at high noon. “High Nuun.” Get it?!? *awkward silence*

I thought about recording myself in a van, then while driving a van, then while running next to a van.

But alas, when I really thought long and hard about it, I decided to stick with doing what I’m best at. Just being myself. (Which typically does NOT involve a video camera.)

With the help of 4 of my running friends, this is why I think Nuun should pick me for their team. Pretty, pretty, pretty please with strawberry lemonade on top! (And yes, I know I should stick with running and not videography!)

Thank you Nuun for giving me the opportunity to apply for the amazing chance to be part of your Hood to Coast team. And thank you for keeping me hydrated during my long runs and races so that I can keep achieving my goals. Thank you for being the kind of company you are and a brand we can all believe in. I hope to see you in Seattle and Oregon. I’ll be hydrating every day for the next 140 days.

Have you ever run the Hood to Coast Relay? What races are on your running bucket list? What is your favorite Nuun flavor?