Amazing Race – Casting Guide

The Amazing Race is looking for applicants for the season long elimination style reality show that has been popular since its first season in 2001. The show appears on CBS and is hosted by Phil Keoghan. The show is currently asking for ‘couple’ applicants which can include any type of relationship such as family, friends, co-workers, and even exes. It’s not necessary to be a romantic coupling. They are also looking for ‘single’ applicants who are willing to be paired with an unknown person once casted, in a ‘blind date’ sort of setting.

The Amazing Race Overview & Strategy

The Amazing Race has multiple (usually 11) two person teams each season racing against each other around the world, competing in physical and mental challenges along the way. The winning team receives one million dollars by arriving at the last destination of the race before the other teams. Teams are eliminated throughout the season by who is farthest behind in the trek around the world. For this show, being fast and on your toes is the name of the game. We have put together ways to prepare yourself for the race:

• Ready for anything – You can’t let anything get in the way of your goal, especially fear. The unknown will be all around you, in each new destination you must race to. Teamwork will end up being what makes or breaks you, so working cohesively with your partner is most important.
• All in – Be ready to be yourself, for the good and the bad. Be fully prepared to have some heavy moments with your partner. Knowing how your partner handles stressful situations and how they are best supported by you will be key. If going into it as a single, being fully ready to throw yourself into the challenges. Being able to handle various personality types will be important. Knowing how to think logically and quickly under pressure is a definite plus to staying focused on the game.
• Clever – This is a game with a large sum of money on every contestant’s mind. The main way to be eliminated is to be in last place. If you aren’t willing or able to play the game strategically, it will make the journey that much more difficult.
• Emotional preparation – Anyone who has had jet lag knows how traveling can have a physical and even emotional toll on the body. Rest is incredibly important, but so is getting to the next destination before the other teams. Being able to juggle the pros and cons of each decision you make, and coming to an agreement with your partner is key. This race is known to test relationships, so going in knowing to expect the trials and tribulations will not only help your sanity and your relationship, but also how you play the game.

The Amazing Race Casting Process

Couple applicants must fill out the online application together, all in one sitting. You will need to attach clear, close-up photos to the application of you and your partner separate, as well as together.

You will also need to make a video of you and your partner (or just yourself if applying as a single). This is where you really showcase your personality and why you should be chosen, as the application itself is more concerned with factual information.

Follow these tips to ensure your video sticks out from the crowd:

1. Be sure to show yourselves as unique, competitive and fun. Remember that it’s entertainment television, so showcasing why you would be an exciting choice is key.
2. If you are unsure what to talk about, perhaps explain where you’re from or what your skills or passions are. This will get you talking about a familiar subject, and hopefully bring up some thrilling aspects as to why you will be the most amazing contestant.
3. Explain your relationship ups and downs. They are looking for the back and forth banter from a long term friendship, so be your natural selves. If applying as a single, you will be asked what you are looking for in a mate and why you are currently single. Be honest and candid, and don’t be afraid to speak up and really talk to the camera about yourself, the positives and negatives.
4. Speak clearly and hook them from the beginning. They go through immense volumes of applications, so you will want your video to be easy to watch and entertaining.
5. Remember, they are looking for outgoing, adventurous, competitive, humorous teams with a solid relationship that is both entertaining and genuine. Though you can apply multiple times with more than one partner, it’s not recommended as you should choose the partner that is most suited to you and would make the most interesting and strong couple on the show.

Online applications are accepted year round, but for the new season applicants must be fully available from May through July 2015. Aside from applying online, there are also open calls in certain cities during the year.

Now what better way is there to spend the summer months than traveling around the world while competing on an adventure of a lifetime?

Amazing Race Casting Video Tips

The video above is an incredible example of a submission for this show. It clearly shows both of the people on the team while giving a glimpse into each of their specific characters. The couple are both very personable and would likely become fan favorites with people cheering for them. Their video submission has received over 25000 views since uploading which is another sign they will be marketable to the show producers.

The Amazing Race Application Restrictions

• Must be 21 years of age
• Must be a US citizen
• Must have a valid passport
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Must be available for the entire season, which in 2015 is from May until July

If you think you have what it takes, you can complete the application form here.
When you have the video and photos, you can apply using the here.

Finally, if you applied to be on this show, we’d love to hear your story whether or not you were selected to appear on air. Feel free to click the link below to share your story with us and our readers.