When you race, do you ever rely on volunteers to help you out, motivate you to keep going or to guide you in the correct direction? If so, then you know how important they are to the race experience. Races could literally not go ahead without volunteers.

So, what’s stopping you from volunteering?

There are so many races on at the moment post-lockdowns that there is no way we can race them all. An awesome way to still participate in the race is to volunteer. There are several altruistic and non-altruistic reasons to volunteer:

·        Can be part of the race experience without having to race

·        Socialise with runners

·        Help other runners

·        Meet new runners

·        Get some volunteer swag

·        Learn about what goes on behind the scenes at races

·        Time on feet training (if you are sweeping)

·        Possible free entry to future races

·        A good reason to get away

·        It makes you feel good!!

There is such a variety of jobs you can do when volunteering:

·        Marking the course

·        Registering runners

·        Gear check

·        Collecting drop bags

·        Handing out drop bags

·        Sweeping and de-marking the course

·        Working on an aid station

·        Helping on the finish line

·        Delivering supplies to aid stations

·        Helping set up/pack up

·        And I’m sure there’s more I don’t even know !

Volunteering is great to do also if you are injured. Often when we are injured it is easy to get despondent about not seeing friends and losing contact with the running community. Volunteering means you can still be involved, and you don’t need to run a step!

I have volunteered at many races, both here in Australia and in Canada, and I have to say it is always so much fun! I also think we all appreciate volunteers more when we step in, do the job, and see what is really involved. You will come away from the experience with a sense of satisfaction from doing something to help your running community, and probably just as exhausted as if you had run the course!

So, what are you waiting for? Contact your local (or not so local!!) run director today and get involved!! I hope to see you out there!