Yes, the same few teams finish up top every year, they have a "support" team sitting at home with computers,transit times, maps etc. and they run around with blue tooth's to communicate everything. This is a little overboard, but since the winner from each city moves on to Nationals, and then World's I can see why someone would do it. (sort of)
Anyways we have ran it every year, for sure a good knowledge of transit is required, which we don't have. So we end up trying to run most of the thing, which is tough on the body for sure. Bus route knowledge can really help reduce the running/jogging/walking aspect though.
In previous years most checkpoints were well within range of the C-train line either North or South, so you could ride the rail and complete your checkpoints. They started to go away from this last year, and buses were required to get to many checkpoints, which makes things tougher.
Basically off the start there is always some sort of event,dash,treasure hunt etc, where everyone is sent to retrieve their checkpoint sheet for the whole day. Once you have this sheet, you must choose 10 of the 30 checkpoints and complete them before you are allowed to finish. Lots of the tasks require puzzle solving, riddles, googling answers, etc. so really you can't just look at the list and pick any 30. Also a few will be "mandatory" so word of advice, go to these ones right away, as since every team has to do them, lines will only get longer as the day goes. Also, if you are in for the fun, choose checkpoints that let you experience unique stuff not open to the public (Rapelling from the navy base, zorbing in a big hamster ball, etc). Downside is obviously the cooler challenges always have longer lines...
Expect an awesome day that will make you feel as close as you ever will to being a contestant on the amazing race.
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