One of my favorite race experiences so far this year was actually at an event I didn’t even run in. While on vacation in California in July, my husband and I decided to cheer at the finish of a little race called the Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon. (You may have read about that race on this very website here and here.) Cheering friends and fellow athletes to their goals can be an exciting and inspiring experience. It’s something I recommend trying even if you’re not necessarily an athlete. Anne even wrote up a few tips for cheering at a race.
But why not take the cheerleader role to the next step and volunteer to help out at an event? This way you can be right in the thick of the action. Race organizers for the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon are currently looking for volunteers to help out on race day. And what a race to be a part of! The race will be run on Sunday, October 3, starting in Grafton, WI and ending near Veteran’s Park in Milwaukee. It’s an awesome opportunity for people to get a first-hand look at the marathon- and maybe catch the bug for next year. Hint. Plus, you’ll also receive a great sweatshirt for helping out!
Right now the biggest need for volunteers on race day is for course sentries. These are people who stand at intersections along the course and make sure the runners make the correct turns, keep spectators off of the course, and cheer the runners on a bit. In both marathons I have run I have been very thankful for the sentries on the course- especially those stationed at the later miles. Everyone loves the volunteers at the water stops but sometimes you really need an extra push in between aid stations and it’s comforting to see the volunteers waving orange flags and telling you how strong you still look (even when you know it’s probably not true.) Plus, the last thing you want to do on marathon day is make a wrong turn and get off course so the job of sentry is extra important if you find yourself separated from the pack.
If you are interested in volunteering for the Lakefront Marathon please check out the volunteer sign up form here. There are many other volunteer positions still open as well (although it looks like the coveted job of medal distributors have already been snatched up. Darn!) Still, it’s sure to be an exciting day so if you’re interested in being a part of the race day excitement, sign up and join the fun!
Photo: The Badgerland Striders.
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