it's comments like this that make volunteering worthwhile

[marathoner452]

I was the race director for the Bachman Valley 1/2 Marathon in Westminster, Maryland last weekend. We had 4 water jugs for 3 water stops, we ran out of cups several times, and getting the race results compiled was a challenge because many runners didn't tear off their tags at the finish. We did see a rainbow prior to the race, have race tshirts for the first time in recent history, and have a new women's record set for the first time in 14 years.  So I'd call the race a success. I think the runners would too:

"It was an excellent race on a beautiful course. Directing a race is huge, and can be very nerve racking. Thank you for your service to the running community."

So as we head into the heart of the fall racing season, remember before you run or before you complain that organizing a race is more difficult than you think. So offer to be on the planning committee. Volunteer at a water stop or put blankets around finishers after they finish their first marathon or set a personal best or qualify for Boston. Give back to the running community, because not only could races not function without volunteers, volunteering at a race does wonders for your motivation.

Besides, how else are most of us going to get to watch the winners cross the finish line?

~Bethany

X-posted to marathoner452, runners, marathoners.

Comments

[black-op.livejournal.com]

Congratulations. It does sound like an achievement.

[batemanenroute.livejournal.com]

Kudos! And Kudos to the person who recognized the efforts of the volunteers :)

[roadwarrior220.livejournal.com]

I'd have to agree with the comment and the commenter. As I said in my e-mail, I was beyond proud to have been a part of it. And no matter where I am next year, if you're at the helm again, I will be back to help. :-)

Congratulations, madam director. :-) Well done.

~Adam

[teach81.livejournal.com]

Hey I was looking at getting broadcast licensed. Do you have any emergency radio people? My family does that from what I understand with other volunteer events.

[marathoner452.livejournal.com]

This was a tiny enough race that we didn't have to worry about emergency radio/police coverage/closing down roads/etc. So unfortunately, I don't know anything about that.

Good luck though.

~Bethany