Drivers for Van or Runners Drive Van?

As first timers trying to determine if it makes sense to bring along 2 extra people in addition to our team of 12 whose sole responsibility is driving the van/being the den mother as someone put it.  Is it a total pain for the runner to be responsible for trading off driving responsibility or would it be a better experience if we left it up to to other people to focus on that?  Thanks!

I've done it both with a dedicated driver and without. I will never (as long as I am the captain!) have a designated driver in my van. It is entirely not necessary. The driver also takes up space. ANd had gear that takes up space. We were in a large van (15 passenger; we've since gone to minivans which I vastly prefer) and I felt squished. You really feel the loss of space during your down time, when you'd have 7 people in the van. It was also tough on the driver- we all got a chance to escape the van and stretch our legs. He never did. Sure, he got out at the transition areas, but it was still really really tough for him.

I have always been one of our drivers. Having at least 3 works out well. I think driving and navigating are part of the adventure, and keeps you invested in the whole experience. The race isn't just about running, IMO.

Thanks for your feedback.  you also touch on another decision we are trying to make passenger van or mini van.  Why do you prefer mini van? 

MInivans are more comfortable and you have as much if not more room compared with the bigger van (at least, that's been my experience). The seats are more comfy, you have better legroom and more floor space. Sure, the big vans have bench seats, but they're awkward to get in and out of (especially as you get tired), and there's only on door vs the two big side doors in the minivan. Minivans also have lots of cupholders and cubbies and such.

Minivans are easier to drive. They're smaller. They need smaller parking spots. You can get in and out of crowded TAs more easily and quickly. They're easier for most people to drive, especially wen tired. (And even if you have a dedicated driver, that person will be exhausted by the middle of the night- more so than someone who gets an adrenalie rush from running.)

Minivans are cheaper. Cost per day rental is often $50+++ less than the bigger van. They use less gas, saving money. Using less gas is also greener! (Relates to RTB's green initiative!) They're less prone to rollover, so they're safer.

Increased chance of getting a vehicle that is NOT white. There will be a LOT of white vans. Haaving a different color vehicle makes it easier to find.

We've done it both ways as well.  I'd say it depends on your team philosophy and van size.  Our team very much prefers the driver option and 15 passenger vans.  We are also are a social team that is running for fun and our drivers are friends that fit the same mindset.  A 12 passenger van gets crowded with a driver.  Never done the Minivan option, but agree it would too many - even friends for 1-1/2 days.  The more coordinated your team is the less difference a driver would make from the rest vs space pendulum and it becomes personal preference.

Double Post - How do you delete?

We did the 2006 and 2007 RTB's and had 15 passenger vans with dedicated drivers both times and thought it was the best way to go. In 2007 I was the captain and the designated driver for van 1 and there was always plenty of room and the runners never had to worry about being tired and having to drive. Their only focus was on their running. I took care of all the worries about getting to the next TA, water stops, food breaks, gas stops, etc. I slept when they slept and I was never tired from driving. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and the effort was greatly appreciated from all the runners. It is a matter of preference but my team would go with the 15 passenger vans and dedicated drivers every time.